Inside the Artist’s Studio is Artful Living’s exclusive look into the innovative, intimate lifestyles of creatives. The studio is a place of curating, of inspiring, of creating. These distinctive spaces play an essential role in the artist’s process and are a direct reflection of the personality and attention to detail that go into each work of art.
Shelly Mosman is widely recognized for her lifestyle portraiture that reflects a vintage aesthetic. Her works portray strong narratives that balance natural subjects and poses with dramatic props and backgrounds. Mosman’s distinctive use of controlled light enhances the overall energy of each portrait. One of her works will be showcased at the annual Auction at MCAD, hosted this Friday, May 20.
How would you describe your studio?
My studio is a 1500-square-foot white box containing seven shooting bays as well as a wet and dry darkroom. The intention was to have a space where I can shoot in any direction and create a completely new backdrop every time. My studio is also very multifunctional as it transforms from a workplace into a gallery very easily.
How long have you been in this space?
My present space, studio 123, I’ve been in for 10 years, and it is by far my favorite for many reasons. The most significant: I am able to create natural light better than natural light itself. I have not one window in my space, but you would never know looking at my lifestyle images because the light bounces beautifully against each of the walls.
What are your five studio must-haves?
- Minimalistic space that is expansive and white like a top-floor loft.
- A mix of daylight-balanced ambient bulbs and florescence bulbs. I have to be careful with the daylight bulbs, because it is easy to keep working until 3 a.m. thinking it is only 6 p.m.
- Everything on wheels! I am constantly moving things around, and everything is at least 75 pounds — therefore everything must go on casters!
- My gear. I have finally mastered how to have a bunch of gear, backdrops, props and a darkroom completely hidden in a huge white space.
- My photography boom is always set up ready to go. This allows me to walk in, roll a couple things around and be ready to shoot.
How does this space foster creativity?
This space offers so much on so many different levels that it is easy to create and feel inspired. Having everything ready to go waiting for me is everything, and not having any boundaries when it comes to location is equally as important.
What’s the best part of having a studio in Minneapolis?
I recognize every day how lucky I am to live in a metropolitan city and be able to own a home and have an amazing studio while working in the arts. It’s a true gift to be able to have these things. Minneapolis has a strong heart for the arts, and I’m grateful to be a part of it. I commend the many that have supported the Minneapolis art scene — specifically John Kremer and Jennifer Young for all they have done with the Casket Arts Building and all of their buildings focused on creating beautiful and affordable artists’ studios.
