Sharing Space

My art studio is about 120 square feet, stuffed with all manner of art making supplies, trinkets, altar relics, candles, and throw pillows. It's a real bohemian crash pad — designed just for me. It suits my sensibilities and also my work habits. It's a solitary place and I rarely have company, espeically since the pandemic. It's like Charlie's Chocolate Factory: “No one ever goes in, and no one ever comes out.” Just me.

That is until two weeks ago, when Walker (my 13 year old) wanted to join me in the studio for a painting session. What? You want to hang out in my inner sanctum? Yes please!

Walker had a very clear idea for a painting — a gift for a dear friend. So we poured a couple of mugs of hot peppermint tea, lit a stick of Nag Champa incense, put on some artsy music, and painted to our heart’s content. When Walker’s painting was finished, they plopped down in a comfy chair and took a big breath. “This felt really good,” they said. “Is this what you do all day? Sit in this cool room to make art and write stuff?”

Happy Valentine’s Day, friends! Whether you are taking time for creative solitude or sharing space with someone special, I hope you’re doing something that feels good.

P.S. Know that you are loved. Big time.