A Peek into Chelsea Tikotsky’s Studio and Her Creative Journey With Nature
Chelsea Tikotsky is a California-based abstract artist whose work captures nature’s fleeting magic and the emotions it evokes. Using vibrant textures and expressive colour palettes, she translates moments of wonder—like sunlight dancing on the water and the glow of a setting sky—into paintings that invite reflection and escape. Tikotsky holds a B.A. in Studio Art from San Francisco State University and refined her artistic perspective at the Accademia di Belle Arti in Florence, Italy. Her work has been showcased in exhibitions across Northern California, including the 2024 PBS KVIE Art Auction, where she received the Juror’s Award. At its core, Tikotsky’s art reminds us to pause and notice the beauty around us. In a world that moves too quickly, her paintings offer peace, nostalgia, and the hope that something beautiful always lies ahead.
Chelsea Tikotsky is a featured artist in our book “Studio Visit Book 5”. You can explore her journey and the stories of other artists by purchasing the book here: https://shop.artstoheartsproject.com/products/the-creative-process-book
In this week’s studio visit interview, we explore the creative space of Chelsea Tikotsky, an abstract artist from California. Chelsea shares a typical day in her studio, where she finds inspiration and how nature and emotions play a big part in her art. Alongside her are her loyal “studio team”: her playful dog and observant cat, who bring joy and helpful interruptions to her creative flow. And if you could step inside her space right now, you’d be greeted by the refreshing scent of spring air drifting in—blended with the earthy, familiar smell of oil paint that she lovingly calls home.
1. Can you describe your typical studio day and creative process?
A typical day in my studio can look a little different depending on where I am in the process. Usually, I come in with an idea or a feeling I want to explore — often inspired by something I’ve seen in nature or experienced personally. I paint a lot from memory and emotion, but I also keep a vast collection of photos I’ve taken or saved over time — they help spark ideas when I’m stuck or need a reference for specific details. If I’m starting something new, I’ll look through those images until something clicks or reflect on recent walks in nature and how particular colours or light made me feel. Once I’m painting, I let the process guide me — sometimes, I’m finishing a piece and other days, I’m experimenting or letting something completely unexpected happen on the canvas. For me, it’s about capturing a moment, a feeling, or a sense of place that I hope will transport someone else when they see it.
2. What is the primary inspiration behind your current body of work?
The primary inspiration behind my current body of work is capturing the magic around us — especially in nature and those small, fleeting moments that often go unnoticed. In our busy, fast-paced world, it’s easy to overlook these little wonders that happen every day — the way the light hits the water at sunset, the glow of the sky after a storm, or just a quiet moment outside that makes you pause. My work is a reminder to slow down, to be present, and to pay attention to those moments — because I genuinely believe magic is happening all the time. It’s not always loud or grand — sometimes subtle and delicate — but it’s there if we’re willing to look for it.
3. What is your favourite memory or incident from your studio?
One of my favourite memories — or really, my favourite kind of moment — in the studio is when everything clicks. It’s those rare, almost electric moments where the creativity flows effortlessly like I’m just a vessel for whatever needs to come through. The music is playing, the temperature feels just right, and there’s this peaceful, energized rhythm between me and the canvas. It doesn’t happen every day — most days require a lot of patience and persistence — but when I catch that creative wave, it feels like pure magic. I lose track of time, and I never want it to end. Those moments remind me why I love painting — they feel like a gift.
4. Do you have any studio assistants, or do any visitors like pets or kids often accompany you?
Yes! I like to joke that I have a full-time studio manager — my cat — who supervises everything I do (usually from the sunniest spot in the room). My dog is my studio assistant — although her central role seems to be making sure I take plenty of breaks to play or give her attention. She keeps me on my toes, especially when I’m deep in a painting session — making sure she doesn’t sneak off and get into mischief. They both bring a lot of joy and personality to my studio days, and honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way.
5. How would you describe a dream studio for yourself?
My dream studio would have big windows with tons of natural light pouring in — the kind of space that feels bright and energizing but also cosy and inviting. The walls would be a soft, creamy white — nothing stark or sterile — just warm enough to feel lived-in while still letting the colours of my paintings shine. I imagine having the windows open, with fresh air moving through the space and the sound of birds outside, surrounded by views of trees and nature. There would be plenty of room to work on multiple paintings at once — especially large-scale pieces — with areas to hang to dry and store materials.
I would have a comfortable couch where I could sit and rest, step back and look at my work, or invite people in to experience the space with me. I’d also have a desk area for admin work — organized but not overly perfect — still feeling like an active, creative space. One of the most practical things I dream about is having an area specifically set up for photographing and filming my work, making it easy to share what I’m creating. Overall, my dream studio is a space that feels inspiring, peaceful, connected to nature, and set up for both creativity and connection.
6. What does your studio smell of right now?
Right now, my studio smells like fresh spring air drifting in, mixed with the rich, familiar scent of oil paint that always feels like home to me. It’s this mix of nature and creativity—a little raw and earthy.
7. If you could set up your studio anywhere in the world, where would it be?
If I could set up my studio anywhere in the world, it would be surrounded by nature. I’d want to be close enough to a town or community — not wholly isolated — but far enough away that I wouldn’t hear the constant buzz of traffic or city noise. I imagine a peaceful space with plenty of sunlight, trees around me, birdsong in the background, and maybe even trails nearby where I could walk and gather inspiration. And I’d want to be near a body of water — whether it’s a creek, a lake, the ocean, or even a quiet bay. I’ve always felt more grounded and connected near trees and water. Something about that combination calms me and sparks my creativity in a natural, effortless way.
8. Can you discuss any ongoing projects or plans for your work?
Right now, I’m focused on a few exciting projects — one being a new series inspired by my experience at Miami Art Week. It’s still in the early stages, but I plan to dive deeper into the vibrant energy I felt there, particularly through a botanical theme that captures the colour, life, and passion I encountered. In addition to that, I’ve been working my way up to larger-scale paintings, which has always been something I’ve wanted to explore more. I’m excited to challenge myself in that direction, and I think it will allow me to push the boundaries of my work in exciting ways. As for the future, my goal is to continue growing as an artist, expanding my reach, and connecting with more people through my art. I’m focused on creating the work that resonates with me now, and I know that will naturally open doors to new opportunities as they come.
9. How do you organize your space?
I like to start with a neat space — it helps settle my mind and get me in the right headspace for painting. But as soon as I dive into my work, it inevitably becomes a chaotic mess. The process takes over no matter how hard I try to keep things neat. I’ve learned to embrace that chaos because it’s part of my work. I always start with a clean studio and try to finish with one, too. I find that having everything in order before I start helps me feel more focused, and then once I’m in the flow of painting, I can let go and let the mess unfold. After I finish, I always tidy up again. Creating, cleaning up, and starting fresh again is a cycle for me.
10. What is your favourite corner in the studio?
I wouldn’t say I have a single favourite corner because each spot in my studio holds something unique and meaningful. However, I do love looking at my collection of art supplies. It reminds me of one of my favourite things — walking into an art store and seeing all the endless creative tools available. It’s that feeling of possibility, like the start of a new project. I also enjoy looking at my palette of mixed paints. Depending on the project, seeing the colours I’ve created and saved for new paintings is always inspiring. It’s a little snapshot of where I’ve been creatively and where I might go next.
Chelsea Tikotsky’s studio feels warm and inviting, filled with natural light and fresh air. It’s a peaceful, creative space where nature and comfort inspire her creative process. Visit our website to explore other artists’ virtual studio spaces. To get featured on our website, don’t forget to apply for this month’s call for art.
Read more about Chelsea Tikotsky on her Website and Instagram.
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