Sarita Reynolds
Genuine Sheds is founded on the principles of creating spaces for individuals and families to expand and grow. We are committed to crafting quality studios and sheds, and this has led us to meeting extraordinary people! We work with people who are utilizing the space as a music or art studio, writing corner, launching their business etc, we are always amazed at all that then gets done in the cozy spaces we build together. We are pleased to bring some of these small businesses and creators to light!
We had the honor of capturing the incredible Sarita Reynolds art studio and could not be more excited to share it with you all.
A little about Sarita:
I am a professional artist living in Santa Barbara. We moved to Santa Barbara 3 years ago and my dream was to have a beautiful art studio overlooking the Santa Barbara mountains out towards the ocean. I have been working as a painter for over 20 years and I always wanted a studio where I can work by myself and have a work space that invites creativity, beauty & inspiration.
What part of your story, what moment in time, led you to where you are today? Is there a particular part of your unique story you want to share?
Moving to Santa Barbara was a huge move for us. We raised our kids and worked in the Bay area for over 10 years. We had a very romantic idea of the life we would be living in Santa Barbara. We took a huge risk, and left our friends and loved ones in Los Gatos and started a new life 4.5 hours away. After finding our dream home I knew the only remaining piece of my dream home that I needed to look build was my very own studio.
When was your first calling to____? Do you remember some of your first experiences with painting? What did they look and feel like?
I have been working professionally as an artist since graduating from art school. After working as an illustrator for years I decided to work exclusively as a painter, being represented by several galleries, but working mostly as a commission based painter.
What does a day in the studio look like? Can you paint a picture with words that lets us into this process?
After my morning run, I go into my studio and start working. My space invites light in, and I open the windows and french doors and I start my day.
Where were you working out of before? What made you want to expand your space?
Before I had my studio built I would paint in my garage.
What is your most beloved part of creating your paintings?
I have a very close relationship with my paintings. Creating art is a very personal experience. I express my feelings, my thoughts, and my aesthetic and style when I paint.
As you grow and continue as a business what are things you want to do more of, and what are things you would like to transition away from?
I want to continue to paint more and commit to creating every single day- making my self expression and my work a priority above all my other daily duties.
How has your studio/shed helped in the expansion of your artwork?
My studio has allowed me to be creative and inspired in a spectacularly gorgeous space, filled with light, and breathtaking views. Every day I open my studio doors I feel blessed and ready to work.
What are you learning to love that you didn’t know you could love as you move into the next phases of business/creation and discovery?
Being an artist means that you embrace a life where inspiration dictates your life and your career. It can be a huge risk but if you create an environment & space that manifests the inspiration & vision you need to paint and create you are well on your way to being the best creative force you can be.
