Newsletter #153 - Cleaning Up
An integral part of the practice
I have several projects going on right now. Some are things you probably know about. Some are new things I can’t talk about yet. Some are things that I might never talk about.
It’s hard to juggle so many projects at one time so it’s important to stay focused.
Distraction is the enemy.
But my studio is always messy. I can’t work like this!
Did you know that having an art practice is 5% ideation, 10% art making and 85% cleaning the studio?
It’s true, and you can’t do the creative stuff until the cleaning is done and the studio is organized.
That’s why, this week, I am pleased to present my favorite cleaning supplies!
We have to start with the classic. When your windows are dirty there is no better cleaner.
Who hasn’t used Windex? It’s the original. It’s the best.
For the really baked-on grime and stickiness, Goof Off is an essential tool. Once you find out what you need it for, you can’t live without it. That said, make sure to test your area before applying. I’ve learned this lesson the hard way!
You can’t clean without paper towels. I like HDX brand paper towels from Home Depot. Sturdy, strong, no-nonsense paper towel. It’s not soft for your little baby hands. It’s tough for a place where you work. It’s also affordable.
You know something…
I don’t like this newsletter concept at all!
I don’t want to talk about and photograph cleaning supplies. This was a terrible idea.
That paper towel photograph I made above reminded me of the era in my life when I used to photograph rolls of toilet paper in bathrooms while I was traveling.
I called this series #moonviewingceremony because that’s the name of the emoji these photographs looked like. 🎑
There were times I would stop into the local drugstore and buy a twelve-pack of toilet paper just so I could make these photos.
I found that ten rolls were the minimum necessary to make a good toilet paper pyramid.
Why did I do this?
I have no idea!!!
The Hotline Show:
In case you missed it, in Episode XXV I talk about selling out and if I am worried about ticks. In Episode XXIV my mom checks out and reviews my show ‘Protect the Network’ and Alternative Timeline Noah tells us what success means to him.
The shows are fun and sometimes visually interesting but you can also just put it on in the background and listen. Give it a shot!
Questions? Comments? Need to get something off your chest?
Call the Hotline: 845.232.1732
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Thank you.
Zach Vitale refuses to choose between soft, gentle, and strong.
Hi Noah, I just want to let you know that this newsletter post in particular has always been a star in my mind, and the idea of cleaning as most of an artistic practice is so true in my experience. Also related ideas like "mise en place," I mean, it's everything!
Nice views from your studio. I dream of living somewhere where windows overlook trees, mountains, nature...!