The Interview: Jonathan F.
The Interview is a monthly post that explores serene spaces and the people who create them.
It is with great excitement that I introduce today's serene space. In a departure from the serene homes I've featured, today I give you a work space. An artist's workspace.
I met Jonathan through mutual friends over a year ago. A photographer and filmmaker, Jonathan is constantly creating. (He even dances.) He has an eye for the unexpected -- finding the uncommon in the common. And he works around the clock. His space speaks to my aesthetic & philosophy in a myriad of ways: the clean lines, the minimal content -- only what's necessary and pleasing to the eye crosses its threshold. I walk into his studio - and there is room to breath and to focus. Top necessities for a work space... or any space, in my opinion. (Side note: The ceilings are in transition, but for the time being, I love the textures they add!) Please enjoy his answers and his space below.
Describe your studio's style.
My studio is an extension of who I am. The details are minimal and the setup is orchestrated. I work probably way too much (at least my mother says so) so my work space needs to have essentials because I rarely leave to go home. The walls are white which for me make it a versatile space. Sometimes I need to create a set, other times I need to hang art. Keeping the look clean lets me be flexible. The windows are large and bare to let in light for when I make photographs, film, or just research at my desk. The shelves hold my music and coffee. Also it's important for the furniture to move so easily for an extended dance break. Overall, I'd describe my studio as my first home, and my home home is just where I sleep.
What is serene about your space?
The light is what makes it so serene. Without the humongous windows, my studio would just be another office - stuffy and boring. But that light, oh, that lights fills the space and changes my mood in a flash.
Share with us one tip on how you keep your studio serene.
My goal in life, and this applies to my studio, is to maintain a lifestyle that is manageable. And my studio reflects this because the furniture, the decor, and the mood are simple. Nothing's complicated, nothing is cluttered, everything has a use and is used often. I don't have to overthink, I can just breathe.
Tell us about your favorite possession. How did you acquire it? What makes it so special?
I adore my settee. I found this mustard yellow mid-century/industrial blend of a loveseat. I found it locally at Midland Antiques. It's sturdy - great for meetings; it's comfortable - perfect for entertaining. Plus, that thing is light. So when it's time to clear the floor for dancing, I can move it by myself.
What influences your personal sense of style?
I like timeless looks. I like to find and be inspired by objects that don't have an expiration date. I want my style to never look outdated. Usually, I have to be patient and not settle on my style because it has to be so well curated. But once I find what looks good, it's simple from there on out.
List your five favorite websites and/ blogs.
Don't have any!
Favorite Indianapolis local.
My bike! It's not a jaunt, but it takes me to those places where I know I can get to quickly and have tranquility while in the middle of the city.