My studio is something of a 'mobile' creation - being my kitchen table or even someone else's, my knees (difficult and uncomfortable) or any suitable surface that may be at hand when I am inspired.  I have tried painting from my car but find it very restricting and now only makes sketches while in my car.

The main criteria is that I am warm and comfortable. I am not even particularly concerned about the light as long as I can see well and it does not flicker or  too bright.  I am sure that purists will frown on this approach, but I find it works well for me.

My studio

As for equipment; I normally use Daler Rowney artist quality paints and good quality sable or squirrel brushes, however I have recently tried ProArte prolene plus brushes and really like them.  They are not so fragile as sable and do hold plenty of paint .  I have found that as I paint very wet when starting my paintings Saunders Waterford rough watercolour board suits me very well.  This means that I do not have to go through the process of stretching my paper and gives me a very stable base to paint on. 

I cannot resist passing  any good art shop without entering and browsing around this has gained me equipment that I really could do without but also some really useful items.  I now usually shop on the internet finding Jacksonart particularly helpful and willing to post overseas.  I have tried Cheap Joes in the US but find that their payment system does not seem to be very secure.

One thing that I have adopted recently is a two gallon bucket for a water container.  I find that this helps to keep my colours bright while allowing me to paint quickly without the need to be for ever changing my water pot.  I can't recommend too much this item, it has made a great difference to me.  It also prevents me from trying to wash my brush in my mug of coffee.

 My only other need is some good music or a play to help me relax and get on with the painting -even the TV sometimes!-.  My theory is that this helps to occupy which ever side of my brain which is not my creative side and save me from distraction!