My pop-up rustic country studio. . .
I have always lived in the city, while occasionally staying briefly in the country. Other artist friends have told me how a peaceful rural setting plays a significant role in their creative process. So finally I decided to try it out.
From the gentle soundtrack of birdsong in the morning to the golden glow of sunset across a canvas in the evening, I’ve discovered this tranquil rual setting at the family farmhouse in northern Michigan does offer an environment where art and nature exist in harmony.
A Unique Artistic Voice
I am not sure how long I will last here in this placid environment, without walkable coffee houses, favorite cafes and coffee planning sessions with friends, but it certainly doesn’t hinder artistic productivity and in this post I thought I would take a look at all the positive points of country living and creativity.
It is said that artists working in rural settings often develop distinctive perspectives influenced by their surroundings. Their work may reflect local landscapes, communities, traditions, and natural elements, helping them establish a unique artistic voice.
But there again, I specialize in architectural art, city buildings, homes in every architectural styles imaginable, so the absence of these elements takes some getting used to.
Peace and Quiet
In. my current location, there is certainly no shortage of this. Country dwellers say that one of the greatest advantages of country living is the tranquility it provides. Away from traffic, crowds, and constant distractions, artists can focus more deeply on their work and that the slower pace of rural life often encourages concentration and creative flow.
From our rustic style upstairs bedroom, there are mornings when the only sound is birdsong drifting through an open window. A chorus of robins, wrens, and sparrows becomes the soundtrack to the day, replacing the noise of engines and sirens. These natural sounds create a calm atmosphere that allows ideas to emerge without interruption. I can see how artists find that such moments of quiet make it easier to settle into a creative rhythm.
Inspiration from Nature
It is very ture that country landscapes offer a source of inspiration for me. Rolling fields, forests, changing seasons, wildlife, and dramatic skies provide artists like me with a rich visual environment that can influence both subject matter and artistic style.
Living and working in the landscape means becoming part of its daily changes. A misty morning may soften the horizon, while an afternoon breeze ripples through tall grasses like waves on water. Even familiar views reveal new colors and patterns throughout the year. These subtle transformations often find their way into an artist’s work, adding depth and authenticity.
The Magic of Natural Light
One of the most cherished aspects of any pop-up country studio is the quality of natural light. So setting up this spage in the enclosed farmhouse porch is the idea location. Throughout the day, sunlight moves across the room, changing the mood and atmosphere of the workspace.
With the changing seasons and even on a cold winter day, the studio often fills with the soft golden light of sunset. As the sun sinks below the horizon, the landscape outside seems to pause, and one can become completely absorbed in the act of creating.
A Deeper Connection to the Creative Process
Since being here, I have experienced that the natural rhythms of country life can foster reflection, without the constant pressure and noise of urban settings. In a way, one becomes more connected to your own thoughts and creative instincts.
Whether gathering wildflowers, watching deer at the edge of a field, or noticing the first signs of a seasonal change. These experiences become part of the creative process and as an artist, it is as if one develop an ongoing relationship with the environment.
In a way, creating art in the countryside is not simply about looking at nature—it is about living within it.
About the Farmhouse – Restoring a Michigan Family Legacy
A little more about the family farmhouse where we are staying. . .
In 1911, my husband’s great grandfather, Harry Days, built a home on 80 acres of farmland in northern Michigan for him and his new wife Matilda. Harry was a farmer, lumberjack and school superintendent. He also devised a way to bring water from a creek half a mile from the home using a ram-jet pump. The family lived almost solely off the land, growing corn and wheat and raising cattle, pigs and chickens. My husband has fond childhood memories of the farm and waking up to Great-Grandma’s pancakes.
The farmhouse was passed on through the generations. However, a hundred years later, age had taken its toll. My sister-in-law and her husband took on the task to renovate the farmhouse so it would once more be a place where family could gather and stay. Little by little, over weekends, they replaced old plumbing and added insulation and new decks. They also replaced the siding, retiled the roof and added a new chimney and wood burning stove. Once fully completed, the icing on the cake was a family celebration to officially christen the newly restored family home.
In summary. . .
I would have to say, that as much as I am enjoying this peaceful respite here in the wilds of northern Michigan, it won’t be too long before I will be ready to get back into urban action. Already, my husband Bruce and I take the hour long trip from the farm to the robust town of Traverse City several times a week. It’s a beautiful city that sits on the bay, has lots of interesting speciality boutiques, a vibrant art scene and welcoming coffee houses and restaurants. And without keeping busy with my art and the continuing commission requests that come my way, I am afraid that for all it’s peace and quiet, country life would simply be too slow and boring on a longer term basis. But for now I will continue to heartily embrace it, keep making art, and get my strength up ready for our next adventure. As for where that will be . . . we have not yet decided but I will keep you updated.
Until next time, take care and don’t forget to spend time on your next adventure. In fact, let me know what you have in mind. It’s always great to hear from you.
Leisa
