Checking in from La la land.
A quick note before I get down to business. October’s Journaling for You Workshop registration is now open here.
Lisa Andruszkow asked me about my easel set up.
My easel is a Blick Studio Light-Duty H-Frame Easel, a generous gift from a close friend. It was wobbly when I received it (and I’m not sure if that was from use or what) so I have little pieces of board propped up underneath the legs in an effort to stabilize it.
The gift of the easel was life changing. It changed my work and it came just at a time when I needed it the most. I dream of sturdier, more stable easels, but I have to say, when that day comes, it will be hard to let this one go because of what it means to me.
If you’re looking for an easel, I’d suggest looking for a used easel first. I see them daily on Facebook Marketplace and I’m sure they’re available used elsewhere if you keep your eyes open.
This is what the easel looked like before I made some modifications. The mast was too tall for my apartment ceiling so I had to saw part of it off (the top part that holds the canvas was broken off any ways, so I can’t comment on how that works with a book/journal/sketchbook set up.)
I bought a large 23 x 26” Jack Richeson drawing clip board (they’re available from Blick and elsewhere in various sizes.) Using two heavy c-clamps, the board is clamped to the side and mast of the easel (you can see them in the photos on the top and the top right.) The board keeps my journal from falling through the open area where most artists would prop up a canvas or panel.
I’m a working artist and instructor. I’m also working in a small space with a limited budget. I needed to figure out how I could share my palette while I teach virtually. I decided to clamp a glass cutting board to the drawing board (I know I need to clean it. I let paint thicken up and then peel off the acrylic skin.)
To the right of the palette is an unclamped MDF panel that gives me a bit of extra support.
What the drawing board looks like (without the palette or panel):
What’s the writing all over the panel? Besides my notes, lists (of favorite painting subjects, and more.) I like to listen to artists talk about art, art of all kinds. I started writing directly on the drawing board. I wrote down quotes that I heard a variety of people say on podcasts or audio books over the last couple of years. These quotes have guided me and given me much to think about:
These are reminders from artists: painters, poets, writers, filmmakers, etc…
As they accidentally get painted over, I’ve copied them into a small journal that I add to periodically.
I tape supply lists, to do lists, and found mementos from some of my favorite artists to and around the boards. The artists serve as a compass, of sort. They are my guides.
What does your creative work space look like? Do you work at an easel? I’d love to see your space. Drop a link below if you’d like to share.
What a fabulous peek at your setup, Kelly!
It’s like looking inside your head…ideas, color, etc. Thanks for sharing this!😊