[Kimberly Dow]

Beth, I just recently closed my downtown studio because we might be moving - plus it was getting to be a local artist hang-out - while that was fun and all; it really kept me from painting.

I moved my stuff into our diningroom and the table/chairs into an area of of livingroom. It fits nicely and I use the hutch for my magazines and supplies - plus there is a closet there to store supplies.

I was worried it wouldnt work well, I had a huge amount of space before. BUt, it is better than ever. I am staying more organized than ever - I really think before I buy more supplies also. The kids do not have to walk through there - they can go around to through the kitchen, but they are well-trained anyway to not touch or play around paintings. My husband was a bit annoyed at first because it looks like a studio if you walk in the house and look left, but.....ummm...too bad. I like the look of it - easels up with paintings in progress - it is very appealing to me. It works well also that I am at home again painting. I can stop and take a break and keep up on the laundry or whatever - when before I'd rush home at 4pm and have to run around like crazy to do dinner and help the kids with homework, etc.

If you can fit your studio in the middle of the living area - I say go for it. As long as the kids and animals know what they can and can't do - I think it's the best of both worlds. You can be working and still feel like you are spending time with the family. I can hear the TV when the kids/husband are watching a family program - so I am still part of the action - which lets me paint more. I could never spend this much time away from home painting.

Good luck!