For most people, it is indeed difficult to focus on one’s creative work if there are distractions, noise, and interruptions. But it is more possible to be able to bring out a masterpiece if your workspace is set up a certain way, which is to say that every individual has a particular preference as to what might trigger inspiration and nurture creativity.
We are peeking into the work rooms of 7 creative people to look at the ways that they try to invite the muse and make her stay for as long as possible. Perhaps we can get some ideas that can inspire how we design our own creative spaces.
For Christine Bellen Ang, author and professor, a comfy chair for her “long hours of work” is definitely important. Her workspace in Baguio City is quiet and has a beautiful view of the pine trees outside. The highlight, however, is her husband’s flower arrangements. “Occasionally, my husband picks flowers from the garden and arranges them in a vase for my workspace,” Christine shares. What a lovely gesture of love.
Jar Concengco is a photographer who values calmness and neatness in his workspace. He says, “Everything is chosen to make the space a calming area that is conducive to creativity; the warmth of the wood of @ishinomakilab x @lamanaph pieces definitely relaxes.”
Stephanie Abad runs an online business, Beneath the Juniper Tree, so she is often working on handmade journals and other paper crafts. Her “vintage apothecary of a room” has inspired her to do much more–she has been exploring embroidery, weaving, resin art, paper making, and sewing in recent months.
Junji Lerma is a musician, performer, and music educator. His work station at home needs to have all the essentials he needs “to concentrate on the music”.
The poet, author, professor, and pianist Niccolo Vitug works best “in a messy situation”. He says, “While the desk sits full of things I need and don’t need, I’m able to put ideas in order, clear the heart of heavy memories and feelings.”
Writer Vince Imbat’s small kitchen shares a space and a window with his work area. He says, “Here, behind this window, I cook lunch or dinner. Also behind this window, I cook essays, translations, poetry.”
The writer Liezl Formilleza Dunuan’s home office has plenty of natural light and a large table. The fantastic view definitely helps with the flow of ideas. “We planned my home office early when the house was still in construction… I consider myself lucky to be living in Baguio and even more lucky to work from home,” Liezl shares.
