The “Clean-Up Routine” That’s Actually Just Me Moving Piles Around

 "Studio Habits I Pretend Are Normal — Episode 2"

There’s a ritual I perform in the studio that I call “cleaning,” but if we’re being honest, it’s really just "strategic pile relocation".

It starts innocently enough. I look around and think, "Okay, today’s the day. I’m going to get this place under control." I roll up my sleeves, take a deep breath, and then… I begin migrating objects like a confused migrating bird.

Brushes go from the table to the cart.  

Sketchbooks go from the cart to the shelf.  

Loose papers go from the shelf to a drawer.  

And that drawer?  

Well, that drawer is already full, so everything in it gets moved to a “temporary spot” on the other side of the room.

By the time I’m done, the studio looks different — not cleaner, just… rearranged. The clutter has been redistributed like a weird artistic ecosystem. Nothing is actually gone. It’s just living somewhere new.

And the funniest part?  

I always feel "accomplished" afterward. I stand there, hands on hips, surveying my work like I’ve just completed a full renovation. The studio has a fresh energy, even though every single object is still present and accounted for — just in a new zip code.

But here’s the truth I’ve made peace with:  

This ritual isn’t about achieving perfection. It’s about resetting the space just enough to trick my brain into feeling ready to create again. It’s a psychological sweep, not a physical one.

And honestly?  

If moving piles around keeps the inspiration flowing, then I’m calling it a legitimate cleaning method.

Even if the piles come back tomorrow.  

And they will.

If you would like to see what I create after this "Clean Up" routine, checkout my artwork on my official website

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