In the savvy film, “New York Stories,” the character played by Nick Nolte is an artistic genius, drunk and painting ferociously all night long to ear splitting rock music in his very romantic loft studio.

Artists’ studios are remarkably diverse.  A setting for contemplative reflection or for wild collaborative social galas, hidden in a barn or located in a “state of the art” warehouse..cluttered or pristine.. all, even in Nick Nolte’s fictitious studio, are places where creative work happens!

Check out these famous artists’ (and one not so famous!) studios.

Matisse (1869-1954)
Final Studio

"Blue Nude II"
Matisse, 1952

Matisse, after first studying law discovered his passion for art, and as a young man he was confined to his bed for nearly a year with an illness.  He began drawing from his bed as a pastime. At age 85, and once again confined to his bed, he produced one of his last great paintings, “Blue Nude II.”

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Francis Bacon (1909-1992)
Studio

"Portrait of Pope Innocent X"
Francis Bacon, 1953

You may love or hate his work but Francis Bacon, Irish artist, is famously known for his paintings of bold graphic and emotional raw energy.  Margaret Thatcher described him as “that man who paints those dreadful pictures.”  The Tate Museum in London sold out two Francis Bacon retrospective shows.


View this unbelievable video of Bacon’s Studio.

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Andy Warhol (1928-1987)
Photo: Andy Warhol's Studio

"Marilyn"
Andy Warhol, 1964

Andy Warhol’s studio was not only his working space but the hip hangout for musicians, artists, film stars and socialites.  His studio was called The Factory.

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Kirby Kendrick
Outdoor Studio, San Diego, CA

"KA-POW!"
Kirby Kendrick, 2011

Kirby Kendrick, San Diego/Santa Fe, NM, artist paints on any surface that stands still long enough.


View Kirby’s latest show.