When I am in my studio I like to feel inspired and at peace.  Over the last few years I keep things I have collected around me in the studio that are constant reminders of my creativity and ambition.  The more my studio space feels like me the more the “ME” can be alive in my artwork.  It also encourages me to be patient with myself, my mistakes, and my frustrations when creating a new painting.

Here are some of those collectables/animals and why they are in my space:

My amazing buffalo painting created by the New York City artist Craig Anthony Miller. This painting represents my spirit animal the buffalo.  It is a reminder that I capable of doing anything and can overcome any obstacle. See CAM’s work here: http://www.craiganthonymiller.com/

Plants will forever be in my workspace.  According to Feng Shui, a Chinese philosophical system of harmonizing everyone with the surrounding environment, there are indoor plants that regulate the positive energy flow.  Indoor plants are known to relieve stress and allow a person to feel vibrant.

My figure competition trophy from 2013 and attached to it is my Mt. Whitney permit from 2014. These objects represent my openness to the journey of my goals. In the journey is where I learn the most about myself.  Very similar in how I feel when creating a work of art.

My “I am a creative being” sign reminds me that I am perfect in my imperfection. I made this sign during a Brene Brown course I took last year called “The Gifts of Imperfection”. I love it and the love the freedom of knowing I never having to be perfect.

Lastly, my cats are always hanging out with me in the studio.  I have two but only one wanted to be in the limelight today, here is Miles. There are so many benefits to having a pet I won’t go through them all.  My cats are great at reminding me to be in the present moment.

What is in your creative space?  Share your comments below, I would love to see.