Having a dedicated space is major aid to maintaining a practice of any kind. As a student and after I graduated I would pick a corner where I lived to set an easel in, usually temporarily. More often I would layout paper or canvas and paint on the floor of my bedroom, usually at night when others were out or asleep. Over time, as life filled with work, family & friends, I set up my easel less frequently in part because I never completely claimed one space for artwork.
When I decided to reinvest in my practice a large part of the investment was changing my spare room from a guest room to a studio. I am so grateful to have this space and it is perfect for how I work. I love having my cat with me while I paint, and taking a break to make tea in my own kitchen.
However, a home studio is not for everyone, and in my case, it isn’t as professional as a separate or rented studio space if you want to have studio visits. If you do rent a studio, you also have chances to exchange ideas and inspiration with other resident artists.
Nevertheless, I know a wonderful professional artist who has their studio set up in the entryway of her home. She works in a small format and the entryway is actually a quiet area away from the family room and kitchen where her family gathers. I also know artists that maintain their practice through drawings and need only carry their sketchbook and pencil. Others have a desk in a spare room, a workspace in a basement, a renovated garage, the tablet they use to create digital art, and another is a plein air painter who journeys outside in all kinds of weather to paint.
In some ways, you need to dedicate two spaces. One is the intention in your head and your heart to pursue your art, the second is to find your space: in your room, your home, a studio rental, your computer, or the great outdoors. Once you’ve dedicated your headspace, you can tailor your physical space to the way you work best: absolute quiet, loud music, the energy of people nearby or the beauty of the natural world.
Choosing to practice. Dedicating your time. Finding your physical space.
These intentions can be begun in the smallest increments, and built on over time. It’s natural for things to arise in life that require your attention and take you away from your studio practice at times. But once you’ve laid the groundwork and can always return to your practice. It is also natural for your practice and space to evolve and change over time as your art and your life evolve.