Artists are invited to share their workspace in this ongoing series, in which artists reflect on their studio. This week, we have two artists from New York City, each capturing light streaming through their windows and piece together the history of a family brownstone.
For the first time, we are sharing the stories of two artists, Mona Kamal from Brooklyn and Sarah van Ouwerkerk from Manhattan.
Mona Kamal’s Studio: A Space of History and Inspiration
Mona’s studio is located on the top floor of her partner’s family brownstone, a four-generation-old home in Brooklyn. The space and history of the house have been incredibly influential for her practice.
- She has been collecting found objects from the house, including an old wooden ironing board, a hand washboard, parts of a tin ceiling, and an old set of antique keys.
- The house and its history have inspired her to create a series about displacement.
“I love the space, its history, and the proximity to my home,” Mona says of her studio. “It’s a special place that has become my inspiration and my sanctuary.”
Mona’s studio days are often filled with a mix of work, music, and conversation. She listens to a variety of music on her earbuds, from 80s pop to heavy metal, while she works.
Sarah van Ouwerkerk’s Studio: A Space of Serenity and Art
Sarah’s studio is located in Soho, Manhattan, and has been her home for 45 years. She describes the space as “quiet and peaceful,” a perfect environment for her to focus on her work.
As a photographer, Sarah loves the natural light in her studio. “The light is my favorite thing in this space,” she says.
Unlike Mona’s studio, which is part of a larger brownstone, Sarah’s studio is a more intimate space. However, it’s still filled with character, thanks to the old building and the history of the neighborhood.
Shared Experiences and Insights
Despite their different studios and locations, both Mona and Sarah share a love for their spaces and the artistic communities they are a part of.
- Mona and Sarah both appreciate the importance of interacting with the environment outside their studios.
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