M. Pia De Girolamo

Large and small canvas tacked to wall in my studio.

Making art can be a very physical activity. In fact, I once looked up how many calories I burned while standing to paint and it turned out to be at least 100 calories/hour, and almost 200 cals/hour with “standing and vigorous effort”!   Standing for long periods, assembling large stretchers, stretching large paintings, tacking big canvas to the wall, and making big sweeping gestures with paint all adds up to some decent physical activity. 

Unfortunately, like other physical work it can also lead to some aches and pains later. To counteract these I try to keep physically fit with regular aerobic and strengthening exercises but I find that stretching before going into the studio helps too. 

Before I paint I usually take a few minutes to center myself mentally so that I can really focus on work.  Now I must also remind myself to take a few minutes to stretch arms and legs, throwing in a “Downward Dog” or “Sun Salutation” as well.  I try to remember to repeat during breaks.  If I forget, my body will often let me know afterwards. 

An artist friend reminded me to do one more thing during painting. “Don’t forget to BREATHE”, she admonished.  It helps as a reminder to unkink all those muscles and joints that are working hard to move paint all over a big canvas, or alternatively freezing into position when you are  seated and bent over working a long time on something small.   It also helps if you are obsessing over a particular area in your painting and need a nudge to get out of it!

Are there any mental or physical  pre-studio routines that you follow  to limber you up for painting or other work?