"...it is the everyday-ness of the studio practice that yields work that has significance and a life that has meaning."
This fall I read a book, Living and Sustaining a Creative Life, by Sharon Louden. A friend I met in Italy, the artist Christina Renfer Vogel, recommended this book to me, and it was exactly what I needed to read! Among other things, the book made me aware that most artists need a regular studio practice. It's definitely something I need. With regular, consistent studio time built into my life, I am better able to meet my other responsibilities and relationships with a graceful, loving presence.
Sometimes my "Studio time" is at home, if the kids are home sick or something. It's challenging to do art when there are dirty dishes or laundry sitting around, but I make an effort. I also have to watch out for naughty cats who want to jump on my paint palette!
My Routine
6 am yoga and meditation
7 am make breakfast for family
8:30 kids leave for school
9-10 get ready for the day: get ready for the day, exercise (maybe a long walk)
10-3 Studio
3 pm cup of strong tea
3:30 kids come home. chores and make dinner etc.
evening: family time
I also spend some time each evening practicing the piano and working on my novel. I often do my website stuff and blogging in the evenings as well, or else I find time on the weekends.
I'll be honest, not every day is like this. Once in awhile I have to take a day off and stay home getting caught up on a bunch of important stuff like housework or finances that are out of control. It's not a "perfect" system, and it's not carved in stone, but it's a dependable routine that suits me very well.
Radishes oil on canvas 9x12" (this is the painting my cat helped me with!)
I hope this was interesting or inspiring in some way! Good luck to everyone in figuring out their own helpful routines, incorporating the things they value most into their daily lives.
I happen to find this sort of thing fascinating, so please share your own creative routine in the comments if you wish!