The Power of Studio Walls: May Cockcroft’s Creative Process

 A studio is more than just a space to paint. It holds energy, memories, and inspiration. For May Cockcroft, the walls of her studio are not just background—they are part of the process. Marks, notes, and colors left behind become part of her work, guiding each new piece she creates.

A Space Full of Energy

Studio walls are like a diary of past ideas. Layers of paint, sketches, and handwritten words build up over time. These marks tell a story—one of trial, error, discovery, and emotion. May Cockcroft finds inspiration in these layers. She doesn’t see the walls as something to keep clean, but as something that grows with her art.

When she looks at the walls, she sees past thoughts, forgotten ideas, and unfinished moments. Sometimes, these marks spark something new. A color, a word, or even an old mistake can lead to the next painting.

Handwritten Prompts as a Guide

Writing is a big part of May Cockcroft’s process. She writes directly onto her paintings and studio walls. These words are not just notes; they are reminders of feelings, ideas, and next steps. Some words stay visible in the final piece, while others get buried under layers of paint.

This mix of writing and painting creates a deep connection between thought and action. The walls hold fragments of this process, keeping her creative flow alive.

The Balance Between Control and Freedom

May Cockcroft’s work blends abstract painting with geometric forms. Her process is both structured and free. She allows her paintings to evolve naturally, layering color and texture while also making thoughtful decisions about form and composition.

Studio walls help her find this balance. They remind her of past choices and give her a space to experiment without fear. If an idea doesn’t work on the canvas, she might test it on the wall first. The walls act as a playground for new ideas.

A Reflection of the Artist

Over time, a studio becomes a reflection of the artist. Every mark, note, and layer on the walls tells a part of the story. For Cockcroft, her studio walls are not just a workspace but an extension of her creative mind.

The energy in the room influences the work. The colors around her, the old brushstrokes, the unfinished thoughts—they all shape what comes next. Her paintings are not separate from the space where they were created. They carry the history of the studio within them.

Conclusion

The power of studio walls is more than just physical. They hold memories, mistakes, and moments of inspiration. For May Cockcroft, they are an essential part of the creative process. They guide her, challenge her, and remind her where she has been.

Every mark left behind is a step toward something new. And in that way, the studio walls are never really finished—just like the creative process itself.