Creative Coworking supports a wide range of artistic practices, including oil painting, while prioritizing the safety, comfort, and shared experience of all members.

Because oil painting involves specific materials and environmental considerations, access is guided by the policy below.

Why We Have This Policy

Oil painting can introduce:

• fumes from certain mediums and solvents

• fire risks from improperly stored materials

• shared-air quality concerns in enclosed spaces

• cleanup and disposal challenges in a coworking environment

This policy ensures that artists can continue to work with oils responsibly while maintaining a safe and welcoming environment for everyone.

Who This Applies To

This policy applies to all members and guests who:

• use oil paints

• use oil-based mediums

• clean brushes using solvents or alternative cleaning systems

• store wet materials or rags on-site

Approved Materials & Practices

We encourage artists to use safer, low-toxicity approaches whenever possible, including:

• water-mixable oil paints

• low-VOC or solvent-free mediums

• sealed brush-cleaning containers

• linseed or walnut oil-based systems

All materials must be used responsibly and in accordance with posted safety guidance.

Restricted Materials

To maintain air quality and safety, the following are not permitted for indoor use unless explicitly approved by management:

• open containers of turpentine or strong solvents

• aerosol sprays or spray varnishes

• uncontrolled use of mineral spirits

• any materials that produce excessive fumes or airborne particulates

Creative Coworking reserves the right to restrict additional materials if they pose a safety or environmental concern.

Ventilation & Space Use

Oil painting is only permitted in designated areas and/or during approved times when ventilation procedures are active.

Members agree to:

• follow all ventilation instructions

• respect occupancy limits in wet-studio areas

• discontinue use if air quality becomes uncomfortable or unsafe

• comply with staff guidance at all times

• open back door to allow for ventilation and closing / locking door when not in use

Fire Safety: Oily Rags & Materials

Oil-soaked rags can pose a fire risk if improperly handled.

Members must:

• dispose of oily rags in designated metal containers only

• never place oil-soaked materials in regular trash bins

• properly seal and store all solvents and mediums after use

• avoid leaving wet materials unattended

Failure to follow fire safety procedures may result in loss of wet-studio privileges.

Cleanup Expectations

Members are responsible for maintaining a clean and respectful shared environment.

This includes:

• cleaning all surfaces after use

• properly disposing of waste and materials

• leaving sinks, tables, and shared tools usable for others

• removing personal items unless approved storage is provided

Safety & Shared Space Responsibility

Creative Coworking is a shared environment used by artists, creatives, and professionals.

All members agree to:

• minimize strong odors and disruptive practices

• respect shared air quality and comfort

• follow all posted and verbal safety instructions

• act in a way that supports a safe, inclusive workspace

Agreement to Terms

By using oil paints or related materials within Creative Coworking, members acknowledge that they have read and agree to follow this policy.

Violations may result in temporary suspension or permanent revocation of wet-studio access.

Questions

If you have questions about this policy or whether a specific material is allowed, please contact Creative Coworking staff before use.