Twelve Beautiful Years And Hundreds of Small Works

A little 6x6 inch abstract

Like many artists, my "studio" is a room I have taken over in my house. I often wish I had a large, separate space, but this is my reality: one room filled with art and art supplies. My home studio is packed—canvases, bins of paint, vases of brushes, tables of paintings, and bookcases overflowing with art books. Yes, I could always use more space and storage, but it is my creative sanctuary.

This is my twelfth year as a professional artist: twelve beautiful years of painting and living a creative life dedicated to art and beauty. Painting brings me immense joy, and I thrive on being around creative people. My weekly portrait group and monthly art critique group keep me grounded, while gathering with fellow artists and taking classes continuously motivates and inspires me.

Time seems to be moving so quickly lately. I’ve been traveling over the last few weeks, which leaves me feeling a bit restless whenever I’m away from my studio. While on the road, I’ve taken time to reflect on my practice and squeeze in a few small studies whenever my schedule allows.

Interestingly, I’ve recently been immersed in reading about and viewing work by the Abstract Expressionists. They painted huge, larger-than-life canvases—often six feet tall or more. Meanwhile, I’m working on six-inch canvases! While I simply don’t have the room to create ginormous paintings, I’ve come to realize just how many unique advantages there are to working small.

Why I Love Small Canvases:

• Less paint: With inflation rising, a single 38 ml tube of paint can run $25, so smaller canvases make high-quality materials stretch further.
• Easier storage: I can store dozens of small works in the space a single large canvas would take.
• Efficiency & spontaneity: I can complete a piece in a single session, which keeps my brushwork fresh, loose, and expressive.

I will always advocate for the quiet beauty of a small work, and I am so thankful to live this creative life every single day.