Industrious Cottage

My work space--scaled to fit my creating and me!

In just over a week I will be taking part in an online workshop to become a SoundWerker* We have been instructed to create a 'sanctuary' for learning, so I've been clearing the decks in my very layered workspace/atelier. The act of clearing allows the basic beauty of this space to re-surface. I love being here even when the horizontal surfaces are loaded! I am surrounded by both possibilities and products of my endeavor. All the materials are at hand and I can sit down and get to work. The bank of windows gives me a three inch clearance when I stand looking out the window. It is like being in a tree house and I can look across the street at the prettiest little house in Lexington. Architectural elements held in common with my former studio which I had to relinquish, abound: stained window trim and beams spanning the ceiling area, not to mention lots of angles. ** David's taborets, which he made from  drawers recycled from our former lake house, hold all my art materials. In my new space, he designed cubbies, making use of otherwise empty space are the place for stashing large tablets and boards. David also crafted several 'hoppers' and a chest which are likewise essential for storage. The paper file  was a hand-me-down from Heike Pickett that is most appreciated!

Building on the past with inspiration from the grandmothers

The space fits important furnishings that have been with me throughout my life. I have the kitchen table from my childhood, an old French table with fat legs, made of oak. It is the table that supported my baking habit. The old wooden case for my maternal grandmother's harp aligns perfectly with the slope of the ceiling and holds my fabric stash, fabrics that I use to make aprons (a constant in the wardrobe of my paternal grandmother.) Last summer's project, Redbud-the-harp, stands at the ready between the taborets and the old oak table. I can sit down in the midst of things and work out an issue  (or a kink!) while looking out the window as the trees transition from bloom to leaf.

Artificial arboration decoration

Right now, I'm working at a desk that I thought would be great for David, but is perfect for me and my laptop. There aren't any trees to look out upon, so I created some artificial arboration.

The lower workshop: for framing and now a bit of woodworking

An older space in the house is also put to use. Once David's domain, I have invaded. The barrier was earlier broken when we placed our exercise equipment in the basement workshop. I had plenty of time to think about the space while I was cycling and rowing. I use the kids' old work table for framing and now I seem to be making some instruments out of user-friendly Musicmakers kits.*** As I mentioned, Redbud now resides up in the atelier. Cherry Bloom is coming together in the basement workshop.

Cherry Bloom the Old World Lyre receives her first coat of finish

I suppose that the kitchen is also a place of industry in our house. Fortunately for me, David is invading that territory and he makes a couple of dinners a week while I am down in the basement sanding or upstairs working on a painting or playing Redbud. Life is a lot more fun when I am making things (and it isn't always supper)!

* I am studying through the SoundWerk Certification Course, Lynda Kuchenbrod, Director. The mission is to use the healing power of music, sound and vibration made by plucked instruments. Interested? See soundwerker.net.

** We are so grateful for the sensitive and excellent work of Graham Pohl of Pohl Rosa Pohl. He listened carefully to what we wanted and designed the perfect space! He also told us when something was not going to work and he designed with structural integrity in mind.

*** If you have ever dreamed of making an instrument, I highly recommend Musicmakers. Their directions are written in a thorough, but light and encouraging way. I was a complete novice when I made my harp, Redbud. They have all kinds of instruments. I love that Musicmakers is also encouraging the return to the informal making of music through their instrumental offerings. For more information, see: harpkit.com.