This week’s Artist Studio Spotlight: Addo Ashong

Before we talk about your studio, tell us abour yourself as an artist.
I enjoy things that are in tune with my artistic sensibilities. My work has a wide range of influence from as far back as the Old Masters to Contemporary Art. In one way or another I like to infuse their qualities into my work.

Where is your studio located?
It’s located in my home. This is a convenient place for me to get my work done. I keep it open and comfortable.

What are the most important elements of your studio?
My easel, myself, my paints and my reference books. I also love the open space because it allows me to explore the different things I have in my studio while creating my work. The lighting is very important as well.

How do you handle storage?
I have wings on my studio that have full access doors for storage. I also store my work on the walls of my home, other people’s houses, shops and restaurants.

Any tips for studio organization?
Yes keep the studio simple. Organize books and magazine in one area of the studio. Also keep all art supplies in a fixed quadrant in the studio. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve lost track of art supplies; only to re-purchase an Item that I already OWN. Stock up on cleaning products that are safe for you and your studio; particularly soaps that dissolve oil (if you paint in oil that is). I would elaborate but we’d be here all evening.

What advice would you give to a new artist?
Try everything and explore all aspects of the arts. More importantly make drawing the foundation of what you’re doing in terms of what you plan to depict whether its abstract or realistic.

Any favorite books you like to keep in your studio library?
I have many favorite books I like and one of my favorites is called the Science of Art. This book goes into depth on artist perspectives with artists like Giotto all the way up to 19th century Masters. Another book is called Masters of Deception which include artists such as MC Escher and Salvador Dali. I also love my book on Tribal Arts which include African and Oceanic Arts which influences my work greatly in terms of the color, vibrancy and patterns.

Check out more pictures of their studio here!

CLICK HERE to read Addo’s Artist Interview.

CLICK HERE to visit Addo’s personal website.