Studio Envy…Or is it?
As Devon Open Studios approaches, I can't help but think about all the incredible creative spaces I'll be visiting. Sure, I might experience a touch of studio envy—after all, I don’t have a dedicated studio. But rather than dwelling on what I don’t have, I focus on the positives. I’m incredibly grateful for my current setup. It might be unconventional, but it works for me in so many ways.
The Beauty of an Unconventional Setup
First of all, I’m lucky to have a spacious home — and an incredibly tolerant husband! In the early days, our open-plan layout made it easy to keep an eye on our mischievous dog, Boo, while still squeezing in bursts of creative work.
So, where exactly is my studio? The truth is… it’s everywhere. At various times it’s been the lounge, the dining room, the utility room, the kitchen, the bathroom, and even the garden.
Top left: My writing table covered in glass powder pots. | Top right: Re-coating kiln tiles in the kitchen. | Middle left: Cutting glass with the tile saw in the kitchen. | Middle right: The kiln tucked away in the utility room. | Bottom left: Writing table again, with my trusty wheeled trolley. | Lower right: Dining table behind my writing table, doubling as extra workspace. | Bottom right: Ever-expanding glass storage cupboard — affectionately called the nook.
Room by Room: My Creative Setup
In the dining room, I spread out across my writing table, sideboard, and dining table—this is where I create glass layers, compile my pieces, and add intricate details. By the end of the day, though, the table is always cleared so we can sit down to eat. My husband isn’t too fussed about this, but it’s a standard I hold myself to. I think it’s partly due to my neurodiverse brain needing tidiness to reduce the overwhelm that a messy workbench creates.
The lounge is my cosy haven for sketching and working on my laptop, usually with Boo snuggled up beside me on the sofa. It’s the perfect spot for dreaming up new ideas while enjoying the comforts of home. Since my husband isn’t an early bird, I often get a precious couple of hours each morning to myself to focus.
The storage nook (the lounge cupboard) is filled with glass tools and supplies. I also share the space with the electric board, filing cabinet, and indoor wood store. Maybe one day, it’ll be entirely dedicated to glass! I’m working on it!!!
The kitchen is where I use the tile saw and grinder, as it’s the farthest spot from our attached neighbour and has the only internal door to keep Boo’s curious nose out of harm's way.
The utility room is home to my kiln, and with no heating in the space it doubles as a handy drying room for laundry. I’ve also started using my homemade flat lap here — a converted hobby potter’s wheel that sits so low I have to spread a tablecloth on the floor and set up in the middle of the room.
The bathroom doubles as my screen-printing station, where the phenomenal shower pressure is perfect for rinsing freshly made screens.
Finally, in the garden, I scrape off kiln shelf primer. Even though I wear a dust mask, it’s easier to clean up outside, and I don’t have to worry about Boo’s not so little lungs.
A Studio on My Own Terms
So, that’s my “studio”—a little unconventional, but it’s mine, and it works perfectly for me. Right now, I wouldn’t swap it for a dedicated studio. Being at home means I can dive into glassmaking whenever inspiration strikes, whether it’s evenings or weekends.
Maybe one day, if this becomes full-time, I’ll want a separate space. But for now, I love that my work flows through the rhythms of daily life. It keeps me creative, resourceful, and connected—and proves that a studio doesn’t have to be traditional to be the perfect fit.
Taking My Studio on the Road
Given the sprawling nature of my home “studio,” the ongoing challenges of living in a renovation project, and the chaos of navigating our large dog’s goofy greetings, I’m especially honoured to be showcasing as part of an artist trio at The Cider Press Gallery alongside Diannah, Lowry, and gallery owner Pam Neaves. The gallery is such a welcoming space, home to work by over 50 carefully selected local artists.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a fellow creative, or simply curious, I’d love to invite you to The Cider Press Gallery from 6–21 September 2025.
Jacq x
Address: Cider Press Gallery, Cider Press Centre, Shinner's Bridge, Dartington TQ9 6TQ.
Dogs welcome.
Parking: Extend your 30-minute free parking to 2 hours by visiting the gallery first and entering your registration plate at the desk. No purchase necessary.
Devon Open Studio: Venue PS13