The Joy of Organizing

It’s always amazing how quickly August and back-to-school season creep up on us—in some ways, it still feels like the summer just started. One of the most important tasks for me as fall approaches, though, is reorganizing my supplies to prepare for future acrylic painting classes, online and in-person. Organization is certainly not the most fun part of being an artist, but it is critical. While organizing, I have found that I have multiple purchases of the card stock that I use on a regular basis. Until I organized everything, I didn’t realize how well-stocked I was. As an artist, it hasn't been easy to stay completely organized with everything. The most important and crucial things, like tracking my inventory of cards and managing the financial side of the business, I stay on top of. This process of cleaning out my storage has been both eye-opening and freeing, showing me the necessity of regular decluttering.

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There is quite a bit I don’t need to hang on to, and organizing really ought to be done more frequently than every few years. I had a friend come over to help me because it kept me on task, and I got through a lot of stuff. I recommend this approach, especially if your friend is another artist. They might find use for things you no longer need, making it easier to let go of items you're holding onto “just in case.”

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Knowing exactly what you have in your supplies – frames, paint, canvases – can be incredibly beneficial. It saves time, energy, and money, allowing you to focus on creating art instead of searching for that one elusive brush or specific color of paint. I’ve even invented a tool to help with this: the BoljatsArtBuddy, a patented brush holder that keeps brushes organized and easy to access, whether you’re painting in your studio or on the go.

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I have a few key strategies that have helped me stay organized. First, I have some rules for my paint storage. I keep excess tubes of paint in labeled totes in my office, each tagged with an inventory list. This system helps me quickly see what I have in stock and what needs replenishing. I’ve also learned to buy the smallest tubes of paint unless it’s a color I use frequently. This reduces waste and ensures I’m using fresh paint. Second, I also have rules for frame storage. Fine art framing can be one of the more frustrating parts of being an artist, but there are ways to minimize this. I always wait to buy frames until the artwork is complete, even for commissioned art. This prevents mismatched sizes and wasted frames. This also prevents the additional work of finding storage for frames, which take up a surprising amount of space.

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For me, organizing is not just a practical task but a spiritual one. My studio walls are adorned with inspirational images and quotes. These visuals encourage me to keep creating and push through any artistic blocks. Clearing out the clutter in my physical space helps clear the clutter in my mind. It’s a way of stewarding the gifts and resources God has given me. The Bible speaks of doing everything "decently and in order" (1 Corinthians 14:40), and I find that applying this principle to my workspace brings a sense of peace and readiness for new creative ventures. Having a well-organized studio is immensely rewarding. It not only makes my work more efficient but also more enjoyable. I can dive into a project without the frustration of searching for supplies. Plus, it gives me a clearer picture of what I need to purchase, saving me from unnecessary expenses.

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Organizing may not be as thrilling as painting, but it is an essential part of the artistic journey. By taking the time to organize, you create a space that nurtures creativity and productivity. Whether it’s inventorying your supplies, clearing out unused items, or setting up an efficient workspace, each step is a move towards greater artistic freedom and joy.

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About the Artist:

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I am an artist passionate about creating and sharing beauty through my work. With years of experience, I have learned the importance of staying organized to maintain a productive and inspiring workspace. My faith guides my creativity, reminding me to cherish and steward the resources I have been given.

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