Through the keyhole

Curiosity may have killed the cat but it certainly made an interesting book in the shape of Francesca Gavin’s Creative Space.

Gavin has gone through the keyhole to the homes and studios of some of the world’s creatives to take a look at the spaces that they live in and are inspired by.

Wes Lang's New York flat
Wes Lang’s New York flat

Whether it’s London-based set designer Gary Card’s Hackney bedroom filled with heaps of oversized, colourful paper maché creations or New York artist Wes Lang’s threatening notes above his kitchen sink – a sign reading ‘Absolutely no tabs’ is pinned behind the knife rack, each of the spaces give some insight into both the artists’ personalities and their working practices.

Gary Card's Hackney bedroom
Gary Card’s Hackney bedroom

Some are hoarders with piles of books up to the ceiling, and others live in neat, minimalist squares, only decorated by oversized canvases. There are indoor swings, shabby pieces of furniture, original Francis Bacon paintings, and collections of vinyl toys galore. Some have tidied up for the shoot, others clearly have not.

The studio of London-based set, prop and furniture designers Snakeskin Jacket
The studio of London-based set, prop and furniture designers Snakeskin Jacket

In an era of hyper sterile showroom-style interiors books, it’s great to see something a bit more real – even in the sleekest of houses the chrome bins actually have bin liners in them.

The book isn’t a groundbreaking study in the relationship between art and place but it will certainly satisfy nosey folk who, like me, are intrigued about the spaces in which art and design take shape.

The home of London-based artist Julie Vernhoeven
The home of London-based artist Julie Vernhoeven

Creative Space: Urban Homes of Artists and Innovators is published by Laurence King, priced £12.95.

 

 

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