CHECKING INTO A HOTEL AND MAKESHIFT STUDIO

“My hands start to itch and get restless to create.”

As an artist who travels more than two months out of the year, checking into a hotel means also creating a makeshift studio. There is an inevitable option to spend all day working the art shows and festivals while on the road. But after a few days of not painting, my hands start to “itch” and get restless to create. The necessity to establish a makeshift studio becomes part of the routine and here are common questions often asked about the experience.

How many blank canvases do you take with you on a trip or do you buy local?
Actually, I bring canvases that are already started as the beginning stages often include resin work and that is too messy to do in any hotel.  I always bring more than I have time to paint…forever the optimist. This last go-around I brought seven with me and completed three.

Given that you have three different styles, are you limited to a specific type when painting on the road? Yes, I have to do the style that will not require any additional resin layers.

Makeshift Studio

Christine Adele Moore

How long days a take a piece to dry? The humidity in some places must be challenging.
I only use water based paints on the road so relatively quickly, not more that an hour or two at most.  I have my trusty hair dryer in a pinch.

Do you ever worry that housekeeping or staff will tamper with the art? Do you tip them extra to clean up?
These days there are few hotels that offer regular housekeeping (thanks Covid) so it’s not an issue.  Just in case, though, I always tidy up before I leave the room and never leave a wet painting unattended.

Do you have to seal it with anything that smells or lingers? Or bring sage to burn to mask the scent?
Haha, no sage burning unless there are sketchy vibes in the room, lol.  I use a scent-free water based sealer.

The lighting in a hotel room can be minimal, do you request the West or South for more or less sunlight?
I bring extension cords and work lights with me always.

Are you painting to replenish what sold or just to carry on?
A bit of both…One always hopes to sell a bunch so it’s good to have replacement pieces at the ready.  

Have you ever had someone ask for a commission while you were traveling and managed a quick turnaround?
Commissions yes but never completed while traveling.  At least not yet…..

Ever had an accidental spill or mess?
Thank heavens, NO!  I’m much more careful than I am in my own space at home where I am notoriously messy.  Just in case, though, I will now knock on some nearby wood…

Do you have any advice or tips for artists who want to try preparing for a first time makeshift studio?
Think your process through, slowly, step by step and make a list of every single trivial thing you need to do your art.  Don’t forget to include the “non-essentials” such as headphones and an inspiring playlist.  Another tip for travel…bring your favorite pillow.   A good night’s sleep is essential to creating great art!