Setting up your home studio

student with a laptop drawing at a desk

A functional and organized workspace is an important part of any creative practice. As a Pre-College Online student, you’ll be working on assignments for your foundation and concentration courses, participating in live class sessions, and documenting your artwork—all from home! Whether you’re working in your bedroom or at your kitchen table, here are some steps for setting up your personal studio.

Prepare your materials

Each of your courses has a separate supply list. You can find these on your course homepages in Canvas two weeks before the class start date. Review your supply lists in advance to make sure you order or purchase supplies in time for the start of the program. You’re welcome to use your own supplies to reduce costs. If you have an item that is very similar to an item on the list, check with your instructor in advance to verify if it will work as an alternative.

Unless otherwise indicated on the supply list, have all supplies on hand on the first day of class. Your classes may also have assignments for you to complete during orientation week that require some supplies. Think ahead about storage to keep your materials organized and easily accessible.

Set up your creative workspace

Though everyone’s home studio setup will look different, there are a few important factors to keep in mind:

  • Keep your space clean and free of clutter. 
  • Make sure you’ll have continual access to the space throughout the program.
  • You’ll need a large, flat surface to work on (a large table or floor space).
  • Even, white lighting is best. Daylight bulbs or flood lamps are good options.
  • Art can be messy! To protect your space, you can drape sheets over furniture or valuables, use drop cloths to cover your floors, or use foam core to protect your walls.

 

student painting a portrait

 

Test your technology

Make sure that you have everything you need to successfully join virtual class sessions, webinars, critiques, and online discussion boards. You’ll need a place for your computer or laptop, positioned where you can sit comfortably for the duration of your class times. Test your computer, camera/lighting, microphone, internet connection, Zoom access, and screen sharing before your first class. Learn more about technology requirements and support.

Plan to document and present your work

Throughout the summer, you’ll be photographing and uploading images of your process work and final pieces. Your instructor will provide specifications on how to format and submit your images. You should also set up a dedicated space for documenting your work. The area should include:

  • A clean, solid-colored area that provides extended and uninterrupted space around the work you are documenting
  • No distracting items or backgrounds (drinks, tools, devices, etc.)
  • Even spread lighting such as daylight or flood lamp bulbs

We also recommend having wall space to hang your work for presenting during class, and for displaying reference images.

 

student drawing on large paper on the floor

 

Setting up your home studio is your first step toward a successful summer in Pre-College Online. With your supplies, workspace, and technology prepared, you’ll be ready to build new skills, refine your creative process, and start making!
 

Pre-College Online
June 17, 2026