I'm a painter who moved to Portland from the Boston area a year ago. I've been surprised to find so few studios in this town. Most are small and expensive and so far I've been making use of my basement. My paintings are large, and I work on the floor, so square feet are important to me. I don't care as much about the condition of the place. Like most artists, I'm good with my hands and able to fix up places. A dishwasher would be my last priority. Space, light and affordibility are first.