Here are some tips on how to be organized as an artist. I will share some resources and supplies I used to stay organized in my business as an artist.
Tips On How To Be Organized As An Artist
Tips On How To Be Organized - the Studio
Whatever size your studio is, it is important to make use of the space and keep the studio as organized as possible. I have had small studios in the past and larger studios and if they are not set up properly with a place for everything they will easily become a dumping ground.
Once you have a studio space whether it is at home or somewhere else, you want to start by planning out your space. I like to use a page in my sketchbook to map out the floor plan of the studio and decide where the furniture will be and where different zones of my studio will take place.
Depending on the type of art you do your studio may be different and have different zones. Here are some studio zones you might want to consider in your studio.
A space to make art
(If you do mixed media art like myself you might need different zones) For example, I do some sewing so, I will need a desk with my sewing machine and a cart or shelves with supplies like fabric, thread, bobbins, needles etc. I also do acrylic painting so I will need an easel or a table to paint on and a spot in my studio to store painting supplies like canvases, paint and brushes. I also like working on the floor sometimes, so it’s important that furniture is on wheels so I can move it easily or something like an easel can be folded up when it is not in use, so I have more floor space.
A space to store finished art
As a fine artist, I need a place to store finished artwork that I plan on showing in future exhibitions. I have a lot of art that I have made over the years. A place like a walk in closet or shelf space with waterproof and UV protected (dark) storage containers works best. I like to label my artwork bins so I can easily see the art that is in that box and so that it is easy to find when needed.
A space to market art/work on the computer
I have a desk in studio in which I have created an office space. This has my computer, printer and office supplies. I also hang some inspiration on a bulletin board with some motivational quotes to keep me inspired as I work. I have also added a diffuser that I use with essential oils as I work to help me concentrate.
A space to film/photograph art
I have a YouTube channel - Jackie Partridge Art and a social media presence. Video content is important on all social media sites. I keep an area of the studio clean and often keep my filming equipment set up with lights so I am ready to film when I need to. I also have some white wall space where I can easily photograph art that I am working on both in-progress and completed work.
A space to package and ship art
I have an online business where I sell original artwork and stickers. I have some shelves where I store all of the art that I have listed on my website for sale, so it can be easily found. I also have some shelf space where I store shipping supplies like tape and scissors.
Spaces to Store Art Supplies
In each zone of making different types of art there are different supplies I need. I store those needed supplies in their designated zone. I use some rolling carts to store these supplies as well as some shelves. I also use various containers, jars and baskets I have collected from the thrift store over the years. I like to have my supplies visible so that I know where everything is but it also serves as a visual reminder to make more artwork. I like using clear containers so I can easily find what I am looking for.
Tips On How To Be Organized- the To-Do List
As an artist and owner of a business there is always a never-ending to-do list. I try my best to keep track of it.
Here are some basic tips on how to be organized:
I use a lot of list and have different sized sticky notes in my studio
I will often email myself reminders of things to print or websites to check out later when I am on the computer
I use the reminders app on my phone frequently
I keep a notebook by my bed for ideas
A Paper Planner
I have a paper planner that I carry with me at all times. I like using the Clever Fox Planner. I have also really liked planners from Indigo in the past. What I love about the Clever Fox Planner is that there is a spot to write down goals, a vision board and monthly and weekly planning. There is also a spot to write and record daily habits. You can check out the planner here.
A Calendar
I have a calendar hanging in my studio that shares important dates like when I am having an art sale or need to install art at a gallery. I use different colours and stickers to highlight different things. I also have my goals posted and break my goals down into quarters of the year and have those posted so I can assign myself deadlines and check in on my progress during the year.
An Online Tool - I Use Asana
Asana is a website and a free phone app that you can use to keep track of your goals and to-do list. I like Asana because it stores my lists digitally. I can organize my lists into different categories or boards and I can check off when I have completed a task which is extremely helpful.
Tips On How To Be Organized- the Computer
Google Drive
I use Google Drive to store all of my files and pictures. I use a couple of backup drives to store digital art designs, digital products and videos. I back up my computer regularly just in case. I organize my files in folders on Google Drive and colour code the folders so they are easily accessible. I also keep track of links I refer to regularly on a Google Sheet.
Canva Pro
Canva Pro is where I create my digital products and my graphics like Pinterest pins or Instagram posts. All of my files are sorted and stored in folders so they can easily be found.
I hope these tips on how to be organized can help you with being a more organized artist! Be sure to click on any of the links in this post to check out some of the organizational products I mentioned.
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