During another sultry summer I moved my back-porch painting studio...indoors. Actually, it's in our living room, where it beckons me to pick up a paint brush to get lost in reverie. Reverie is what happens when an artist paints, we get lost in a dreamy world and time stops. I get totally absorbed in creation and need to be reminded that it's time to prepare dinner. During the day I can look across the room to assess what needs improvement "on my paintings in progress." This studio move was a good idea, but art storage has always been a dilemma.

In January 2020 before the pandemic stopped the world I was searching nearby hardware stores for a handy measuring tool to use in portrait painting. And then I saw a great workbench! For several nights I dreamed about how I could arrange my paints in the felt lined drawers. But I never imagined that assembly would be a two-woman task. Thankfully my neighbor, Mary, helped me assemble this sturdy workbench. Google and You Tube helped me install the drawers!

Now all my colors are easy to find and I even have a drawer just for portrait hues. The paint tube trays are made from sliced empty toilet paper rolls and clear tape.

For years I had searched for racks to hold my art and finally online I found these great Dryden art and canvas keepers designed by the husband of an artist. Methodically I persevered to assemble the rack, but I did it...solo this time! And then I ordered another rack!

These old trunks that were waiting for me at consignment stores provide more safe storage space.

Time spent sorting closets, bins and drawers during the world's timeout has been beneficial. I found more art supplies hiding under the bed and a bin full of  My Cozy Treehouse Creations™ that reminded me to revive my colorful storybook characters for my baby grandson.  I'll tell you about Smiley Tickles™ in another blog. I am more productive when all my tools are organized and readily available. The proverbial messy artist's loft isn't my style. But you should see my desk when I'm in the middle of a project. Have you also been sorting and cleaning everything in sight? Please share your art organizing tips.

I hope that you and your loved ones are safe and well. Many blessings, Diana