The studio cabinets are stuffed to the brim with every medium available to an artist because, well, that is what I do. Being a mixed media artist is a double edge sword. While I find joy and intrigue in bringing together objects or mediums that normally wouldn't be used in "traditional" works of art, they settle in nicely in the works that end up on gallery walls and peoples homes. It would be easier and perhaps less expensive to proclaim...."I'm a watercolor artist," but, no such luck. Instead of a tray of watercolors a few brushes and masking fluid needed for the job, I need on hand pastels, oil pastels, acrylic paint, impasto medium, glaze medium, spray fixative, stencils, stamps, lino block cutting tools to make my own stamps, hand made papers and the list goes on. Each item has its own application and effect it can render. If I only had access to a simple # 2 pencil and a paper bag to draw on I would be happy- but just because Walmart jeans cover your rear doesn't mean they are the best choice for your shape. So, when it comes to art supplies nothing is safe- even stuff on the ground- bits of rusty wire or washers, weathered broken glass or uniquely shaped twigs all have a purpose and are neatly tucked away in drawers to meet their creative destiny in the future. Well, neatly part- is optional. When the kids were in school and they were working on a project they always asked if I had a certain something, and guess what I did. My studio at home was a bit of a scavengers hunt treasure trove. So while musicians purchase instruments, and mechanics have every tool imaginable, I continue to independently finance Windsor Newton and Grumbacher.
Admittedly, when it comes to art supplies- Ive got a bit of a problem. In addition to this general appetite for new and different supplies there are the old stand by's that you can't survive without, one being , white paint. White, is not a color- you cannot mix two other colors and arrive at white. It has its own mission,and that is to add body and opacity to other colors. Now, if you go painting along with your standard colors like ultramarine or crimson, the colors are transparent and all that is below that layer, can be seen- not so good in some cases. So, add a bit of white and you are on your way. It also changes the temperature of the piece -giving a bit of atmosphere. So, no you can't just leave that area white like in watercolor.
My little studio on the square in our rural community keeps me busy with commissions and rotating unique retail items. The opportunity to experience cultural events and replenish supplies- needed or not, only comes when we venture beyond our county- so gas prices as they are I take advantage of the opportunity when it arises much to my husbands dismay - poor guy, seems we are always at an art show or buying supplies or delivering paintings to clients- it must get old. So, I resolve to keep date night as such and leave the business for business days- at least some of the time :)
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