I Bought a Van - to turn into my travel ART STUDIO

[@JannekeVisser-h8c]

If I were you, I would bring a lightweight folding chair, so you can also sit outside, with back support. It will give you more positions to sit in. And some have small table tops which maybe could work for painting. An extra chair will also give you more options for views.

[@LeslieStroz]

So true! When I decide where I want to put the “sofa” I’ll build a platform underneath for storage so I can easily add things like an extra chair. 😊

[@megperry5586]

I am so inspired by your van! I am going to think about what I can do to make my car more comfortable.

[@marilynbeeby6435]

What a great idea! A plein air van. Fabulous 😊

[@sujanithtottempudi2991]

You could also keep extra storage on the roof if you still need

[@PlayfullyPainting]

Exciting! Perfect plein-air mobil set up. I can't wait to see your future art adventures videos.

[@jaynewarriner7214]

You’re living my dream but I’m right behind you. I will be picking up this week, a 1965 camper to rebuild as my art studio. I live in a tiny house on my sisters land and also travel part time in my diy truck camper. I use the camper mainly for my jobs, staying 4 days to 2 weeks at a time. It really is cozy and comfortable if you take your time and think it through before setting it up. Congratulations on your new van. It looks like you’re going to get lots of use out of it.

[@LeslieStroz]

Oooh! That sounds perfect! Have fun with it. ❤

[@Heinz57ish]

sounds wonderful

[@consideredwhisper]

Hello Leslie, new person here. I also have an Art Van. Mine is also a passenger vehicle so has all the tinted windows. It’s so perfect and cosy. I’m also in Devon - we have a lot in common! My van is even the same colour as yours and I have a portable power station too. The full size heated blankets are worth getting for both daytime wraparound warmth and for sleeping under. FYI I noticed that Trago sell tailgate awnings for about £150, which seems reasonable, if you want to check them out.

[@simonettahelena986]

My husband and I did this 19 years ago, we bought a fifth wheel and diesel truck to tow. We were homeschooling our young son, so we wanted plenty of room to bring all of his cousins, friends, and all of our animals. Both my son and I are artists. It remains one of the coolest things that we have ever done, and not once did we regret it. I wish you great joy and peace with your new “gypsy art mobile”, and I wonder how long it will take before we hear you have decided to take your new travel beast on the ferry to mainland Europe, to paint and sketch at all of the museums, Alps, and seaports, etc. That being said, I’m a die hard Brontë fan, and also a big fan of the literature giants of the UK, so if it was me, I’d be sticking around there for awhile, and paint on the moors and so forth. Oh: one thing: I used to watch KZbin videos about people who converted vehicles into tiny homes or rvs for fun and adventure, and I do recall that there was one lady from California, a professor, who converted an old church bus into her tiny home; and she had procured a collapsible, circular shower curtain contraption, which she would place around her toilet, and expand the wire structure upward so that she could enjoy complete privacy with the circular shower curtain. I don’t remember now if she also showered with it in her vehicle, but I kind of think that she did. Other ladies who decided to take to the road by themselves and made KZbin channels about it, also made it clear that they had a plan of action just in case a suspicious person decided to take interest in them and their situation, if they were on the road alone. I don’t mean to be a downer, but we are women and need to think about things like this and be a few steps ahead so that we can stay safe. One woman had a very loud siren, another had an escape plan, etc. These were full timers, but it is still worth mentioning to any woman who go on the road alone..

[@WhiteLotusOm]

This was a great video as I sold my 30ft RV tired of all the wait times in the US for maintenance and storage fees and purchased a brand new Honda Passport Trailsport with the intentions of travel. I had a blast kitting it out as there are so many things you can buy now that can be recharged. I got a Jackery for power with the panels, portable fridge, usb charged fans with a light and usb fairy lights to hang around the inside. A trifold 6” mattress as like you I have arthritis and needed the extra depth. You can buy mosquito nets that fit down over your windows so you can open your windows on hot days and if your sun roof opens there are bug nets that are magnetic that you can add there too. I ordered fitted black out panels for all the windows. I purchased a tent that attaches to the back of your car so that you can use it to store your supplies and have the back open at night to sleep and gives you more space if on a longer vacation. Oh and I just purchased the cutest collapsible kettle all on Amazon and everything stays in my garage until I’m ready to travel. You did a great job with yours, this was so fun to watch and got me excited to venture out in mine along with my painting supplies. May you have many happy travels! ♥️🚙

[@LeslieStroz]

Sounds like you’re all set for travel! And you can probably get to more remote areas too in the Trailsport. Thanks for the tips! I hope you love your new, streamlined adventure vehicle. 😊

[@ccn6558]

I am a photographer in the USA. When I retired from my day job a couple of years ago I purchased a Promaster Van and had it converted. It is so comfortable to have my little home on wheels to go exploring. I really love your solution - especially considering the reality of European roadways. A brilliant solution. Nicely done! I am trying to learn to watercolor/draw as I've added nature journaling to my photography practice. It helps me "see" what I am observing and helps me put the birds & wildlife I photograph into context. I love your channel. Thank you for letting me follow along.

[@Mariecherement]

I have got a used 2007 Honda Odyssey, and I can lay down and sleep in the back if I need to in an emergency. I took all the seats out of the back and I put down about three five and a half foot by five foot rug remnants from Family Dollar that cushion you when you sit and paint or sleep. I have several large pillows to use for support. always park in a park or in a place where there are public bathrooms. You can get coffee or large diet sodas at 7-11, and they also have microwaves there. If you are in a strange city, as a woman, ALWAYS go to the nearest police station at night and tell the police that you are a woman and you need to take a nap in your locked car to e well rested and alert enough to be safe enough before you start driving again. Police stations are VERY well lit,, and they have bathrooms and the cops always say yes, you can park in our police station lot overnight. and they will watch over you and make sure that you stay safe when you are out painting plein air. A lot of times the cops are really nice and they will bring you cups of hot tea or coffee when they check on you.

[@andreasdesigns]

I didn't know this about police stations and hospitals. I will keep this in mind for the next road trip. Thank you for sharing it.

[@Mariecherement]

@@andreasdesigns Also, Catholic Churches parking lots and if you get sick, call the phone number of the parish office. If you are sick, or hungry or cold wet or in need or if somebody steals your wallet, the priest will open the door for you, and help you, and give you a place to stay. Catholic Churches are in every city and town, large and small in very country throughout the entire world. The first thing my mother taught me to do whenever you are in a new town is locate the nearest Catholic Church, just in case your trip goes awry, and you need help, but family and friends are far away!

[@Twilyhtmist]

About the back door "Awning" - you might want to also have a a strip of heavy duty velcro (the soft fuzzy side, hot glued into the door with industrial strength glue sticks) to that inner "rim", and then attach the prickly side to some clear shower curtain material (also heavy duty/thickest kind). But attach it & hang it upside down, so that the curtain ring holes are hanging at the bottom - this way you can have a protective 'rainstorm curtain" if you are in the middle of cooking or painting (using the awning), and want to finish despite the oncoming weather. The holes at the bottom of the curtain basically just give you many location options for tying or anchoring the curtain down - with metal hooked tent stakes (if it's long enough to touch the ground), or by using some twine with that, or just tieing it to something nearby, like a fence. If you keep a couple car wash shammys with them (the highly absorbent, reusable ones), its easy to just wipe them down as you fold each panel section inward, so there's not a big wet mess afterwards. Clearly I've been thinking about van life options for a while myself, LOL 😆😉 I love that compost toilet, BTW (composters are the BEST!) I never heard of that company, so I have to save that option for my own possible plans as well. BTW - if you have any "PetCo" type stores over on your side of the pond, you might want to pick up a bag of Hamster bedding - that works beautifully as material to cover your deeds in the portable toilet; and it smells wonderful, too! P.S. Obviously, I LOVE your setup and practical reasons for having a van-life van! Also doubles as a SHTF getaway vehicle, should it be required, which is pretty sweet as well. I can recommend (for an additional camping option) the Kelly Kettle Base Camp set. It primarily (and VERY quickly) boils water, but you can also do grilling & cooking in the small pot or pan very easily to feed 1-2 people... and it'll save your electricity for other things, should that be needed.

[@LeslieStroz]

That’s a great idea about Velcro and an upside down shower curtain for being able to stake it. I dont want to fiddle with one of the larger tent attachments, but that seems fairly straightforward and effective. And yes, the Trelino is amazing! I highly recommend. Thanks for all of the tips! 😊

[@lynnemarie7885]

I love this! As someone else with Autoimmune issues, I deeply understand needing the „luxuries“ of a toilette, a space to prepare a little meal and comfortable resting space even for just smaller adventures. These are truly necessities and not luxuries for me. I have also just bought a little van (I bought your Connect Tourneo‘s bigger sister, the Ford Tourneo Custom, but it was more happenstance than planning. Would have loved something smaller but it is great to have even more space (it‘s smaller than the Transit and bigger than the Connect) I am loving resting in nature, being inside in my own little apartment even though I am away from home. Also for me Ikea has been AMAZING for a no build build. I wish you happy journeys!

[@deborahmotter]

So enjoyed you showing your new painting vehicle. We have a charging station we acquired this past year in our sailboat. It has certainly made anchoring out on Lake Erie more enjoyable. I love to paint the views from our boat, especially sunsets and sunrises. I'm fairly new to painting so seeing your details for how to make it comfortable are really enlightening. I'll look at my set up differently this next boating season. ☺️

[@Janartable]

My sister goes car camping in Canada. She likes to go to the outdoor weekend music festivals and rather than pay for hiked up festival charges at local hotels etc, she just camps for $50 a night in her car. She got a ‘tail veil’ tent that attaches to the back of her car and allows her to sit at a little table with her meals. It just gives you a larger, extended ‘home’. Your whole set up is wonderful! That’s a great charging station, and the toilet is amazing. I didn’t even know such a toilet was available. I’m keeping that in mind! And your pochade box is drool worthy for sure! I’m so happy for you that you have this wonderful, creative space to go pleine air painting in! And…i love that your little dog goes with you. Mine would too. Have some wonderful adventures, and don’t forget to share them with us!!! :)

[@LeslieStroz]

She insists on following me everywhere, so she needed a cozy space too. 😊 Ypur sister’s setup sounds perfect.

[@conkrotwife]

A lightweight backpacking stove would be great here. I have a JetBoil that is great for making coffee and simple meals!

[@leafandyard7943]

I seriously appreciate the bathroom talk! My daughter and I are talking about a van camping build for a remote Renaissance festival where we work, so I don't have to spend so much money on hotels during the run. The site has port-a-johns but there are only two for all of the camping cast and they get dreadful quickly. Thank you for your detailed explanation of how yours works. That's one of the things that so many car campers just don't talk about!

[@StephanieLDavis13]

This is amazing! So proud for you and so inspired by you! Can’t wait until you take us all on a painting adventure ! ❤

[@LeslieStroz]

Me too!! 😊

[@Lulu.G-61]

Leslie, I am so inspired by you! I have a little SUV and during the April plein air painting challenge I would go out and sit in the back of it to paint, but you have inspired me to add a nice cushion to the back so that I can actually sit inside of it and be comfortable instead of sitting with my legs dangling over the bumper. Thank you for sharing and congratulations on your Plein Air-Mobile!

[@LeslieStroz]

Loads of plein air artists stand at the back of their vehicles to paint, but yes, actually making a little “art nook” inside is much cozier and also more versatile for inclement weather. Good luck setting yours up! 😊

[@cherylclough4309]

This is fantastic. I’m not sure what my favorite thing about your Art Van is, but I must say, for convenience and ease of use, it might have to be your little toilet! As someone who ALWAYS has to go potty at the most inconvenient times (my dad used to carry a large coffee can for me when I was little and we went on car trips😖), that toilet is super perfect. Of course the whole set up is perfect. Enjoy! And thanks for sharing.

[@LeslieStroz]

The toilet is one of my favourite parts. Much better than a coffee can! 😊

[@shirleynace1314]

@@LeslieStrozand more comfortable than a Luggable Loo! Thanks for sharing.

[@liberty2995]

It’s gorgeous! Love the vehicle and the setup! Now I want one!! 😂

[@LeslieStroz]

I understand! 😊❤

[@ashleybravin]

What a brilliant purchase! A paint-mobile! I love all of the things you've added to it, and I'm very impressed by the battery - I've been wanting to get something like that for our car for our camping trips for when I go out painting for multiple days. I love that you've designed your van with your chronic illnesses in mind, and make it work for you, not just for aesthetics, or strictly for painting utility. Comfort is important, too! My one suggestion was to add a heating blanket, but you were already way ahead of me. Maybe some clever art pun bumper stickers.

[@TheTerrylwg]

I'm so glad you showed us your new "art studio"!!! I don't know where it is, exactly, but now I want to move to Devon, England!

[@fantasy3786]

Omg it's lovely I am so glad that i took the time to watch this cozy vlog! Would love more painting vlogs in ur new van!!❤

[@LeslieStroz]

Coming soon!! 🥰❤️

[@mklarson2980]

Love your van Leslie! You are a kindred spirit. My husband and I bought a van last year for a lot of the same reasons. I'm immune compromised and have arthritis, and the van makes it so much easier to get out and paint and just enjoy the outdoors. We also love Bluetti and their excellent customer service. One thing we were surprised to find so useful is a portable induction cooktop burner. We use it for our kettle and to heat up simple meals. Enjoy your new adventure mobile!

[@LeslieStroz]

Oh the induction cooktop is a wonderful idea! I’m glad to hear that your van has also given you the ability to adventure and create in spite of your arthritis. I’m super excited to share my painting adventures here. 🚐🥰

[@12steps2beauty]

Hi Leslie, thank you for such a lovely video, very enjoyable. I think you have given me some welcome information to consider as I am about to buy one and wasn’t completely sure which van to go for. I love the way you have begun to play with your ‘art studio rv’, it does look so cozy and restful, I look forward to seeing more of your videos, happy art from Susie x

[@dees3179]

Perfect. This is exactly what I needed to see. I can’t afford a camper and I’m not allowed one at my property so would need to hire storage for one if I bought it. But what I primarily want one for is the freedom for having longer day trips and painting in comfort with my own loo. This solves so many problems, including parking in small places. Thank you a million times for the sensible ideas. Bookmarking for when I have a small rather than large lottery win!

[@LeslieStroz]

I totally understand. We didn’t really have space to park a larger vehicle, so this ticks many boxes! 😊

[@namastejulie]

I had to show this to my husband who has a transit connect and loves it. We were inspired by your van translations and it has given us many ideas. Because I live in Florida and the mosquitoes are abundant he came up with an idea. His idea is to make a screen with magnets to attach around the openings (like when opening the lift or an opened slide). May not completely stop them but would help.

[@ninawilhelm36]

This was such a super informative video. It's given me loads of ideas. As a solo SUV no-build camper, I now see how I can set up for my plein air outings. Thanks for sharing your set-up.

[@LeslieStroz]

You’re welcome! It’s going to be fun to try out different configurations. 😊

[@0230Raveena]

Great. Thank You for Sharing. This is exactly what I want. I do paint as well and I want an RV where I can be in the great outdoors and paint. So glad I found your channel.

[@Mariecherement]

I am an artist who loves plein air painting, weather permitting, I am 61 years old and I have Chronic Kidney Disease, and I ALWAYS try to go on trips that are NEVER TOO FAR AWAY FROM PEOPLE IN A CITY WHO CAN HELP YOU, 24/7, in case you get suddenly sick, become unexpectedly incapacitated and need help. There are certain things that I try to do, at all times to make sure that I can handle anything that might come my way. Rue number one, aways check the weather report before you head out on a trip.

[@chanamagoo]

This is genius...I have an F150 with a covered bed and I can't BELIEVE I did not think of this to do with my own car...I even have a giant power station that I keep in my car for emergencies...thank you so much for the inspiration!

[@marjoriepark1198]

Love it ….. My husband owned a transit connect for his work vehicle, it was white with a great lay-out but no passenger seats except the front two seats. We also have a Ford Escape with a similar layout except as a passenger vehicle. Unfortunately the Transit connect was totaled ( destroyed ) by an old tree on our coastal south US property during a hurricane a couple of years ago and we really miss it. Great choices and great idea. I think this is a great project that will really be fun and functional. Looking forward to seeing some lessons from your journeys. I made a portable painting table top ( no legs) last year because we downsized to a small cabin to live on our son’s property due to my need for stage 4 cancer treatments. I made the table by putting sides on a 3 x3 piece of thin plywood on all side with 4 wooden yardsticks ( from the hardware store after 1st covering the top side with a lovely grey velveteen. The yardsticks are about 1& 1/2 in wide and the plywood is 1/2 in. So I have a nice lip,all around to keep my stuff from falling off. All your tips and tools are really cool. You are trying to cover all the bases. Also maybe a spring form shower curtain rod to give you privacy ( to use your loo.) Back in the day when we had our composting toilet on our sailboat we would often use our composting toilet with clay kitty litter. 🤭Thanks for taking us along….

[@JulietUhlott]

@Leslie thank you so much for sharing about your chronic pain and arthritis. I have chronic pain, osteoarthritis, and fibromyalgia and I too suffer from alot of pain when I try to do anything outside in humidity or colder weather. I have a car plug in heated fleece blanket. I'm going to make sure it is ready to go with me when I go plein air sketching and painting.

[@JulietUhlott]

And I'm gonna get a bluetti. That's awesome.

[@janscott9151]

What a superb vehicle. And so well fitted out. I can see why you did not want to do a hard conversion as you assess how it works for you and gives such flexibility. And I’ve never seen a toilet like that before but it looks like a great solution.

[@LeslieStroz]

It was difficult to find the right model (and even more difficult to find them with an automatic transmission!) but I think this is going to be a good size. And yes, the toilet is one of the best parts, lol. Stay tuned for painting adventures! ❤

[@moonchaserstudio]

This is my dream right here. I too have chronic pain. Hopefully the universe will allow me to get one one day. ❤ ❤ Happy trails and art on my dear.

[@LeslieStroz]

I hope you can find your own perfect cabin on wheels; it really is helpful for chronic pain sufferers! ❤

[@lizhopewell0507]

This is marvellous, not only so practicable but so cosy too. I bet Poppy will enjoy it as much as you. It has everything you need.

[@LeslieStroz]

I hope she settles in. She is pretty attached to my Golf so for her this is a mansion! 😅

[@andreasdesigns]

Congratulations on your new van. I can't wait to see your videos and paintings from your road trips. I'm so excited for you. I love the compost toilet. I like that it’s clean and doesn't contain chemicals.

[@Mariecherement]

AND SOME HAND SOAP IN A LITTLE SQUIRT JAR. ALWAYS DRESS FOR THE WEATHER!

[@zenlife1200]

I just ordered a small laptop table that might be really good in your van. It's designed to be used in bed or on a couch or if you're sitting on the floor. It folds completely flat for storage but has extendable legs to sit at different heights and the bit I like most is the top tilts at different angles if needed. I saw lots online. Some have slots for standing up your phone or ipad. Some have a built in light on a folding arm too.

[@maisycakes1125]

Please could you give us the name of it 😊

[@LeslieStroz]

I think I have that one in my bedroom… does it have a small drawer on the side? You’re right; it’s a great table! I picked up the one in the van at IKEA as a temporary measure, but might eventually upgrade. 😊

[@zenlife1200]

@@LeslieStroz I did see them with pen drawer, yes

[@jaclynbaerart]

Oh i love this so much! Love that you can reconfigure things as you figure out what setup is best for you. I used to own a van and live in it and loved it! Perhaps an extra chair or something for when you want to sit outside would be helpful in the future and sewing some sort of curtain for privacy when you do sleep in it to cover the front area from the back!

[@reedebrown6006]

This looks awesome! What a great idea. The fact you can take so much more stuff (technical name for art equipment!) with you, whatever type of painting presents itself, you will have whatever you need to do it. Love the portable loo too. Very necessary for the longer excursions. Looking forward to seeing some of you trips in ‘Leslie’s Pleinair Mobile’

[@LeslieStroz]

Thanks! It will be fun to decide which things I use most and eventually build a few more permanent structures inside. I’ll definitely be posting more videos along the journey. 😊

[@ShannonForbes-zb4xd]

Wow I just watched you Van tour! You’ve started a new KZbin trend I’m sure!!😄🎨🖌️ I just finished painting and refurnishing my little studio ; how many studio tours are there on KZbin?!😃 Your Van is perfect ! I like that Poppy has been considered as well in your outfitting of your van. You’ve given me some ideas to fit my Honda CRV with some comforts of home to sit in the back with the hatch open! I too suffer with autoimmune disorders and going for hikes to do Plein Air isn’t always appealing. I also want to include my little dog when I go out so she would be comfortable too! That generator is amazing! Great information Leslie! Enjoy!

[@LeslieStroz]

My husband has a CRV and I had my eye on that for quite awhile- I’m sure it will be a lovely, creative haven for you. Poppy is nervous about how “big” the van is compared to the Golf, but I’m hoping she relaxes as it becomes more familiar. 😊

[@sarahmcarthur9107]

I loved this video for many reasons! The first one is that I too have struggled with autoimmune issues since I was a teenager (50 or so years ago) and obstacles to doing something pleasant become many and overwhelming for sure. I love how you have kitted out your van; my husband and I travel in a trailer quite a bit, so finding the many small ways to bring a bit of home with us just makes things that much more comfortable. I was thinking about your Trelino and your thought that you can simply bag up the solid waste and dispose of it; I used to help a friend at a fair for several days at a time every year and we learned that there are often laws about putting human waste into the landfills, so it might be a good idea to look into that. Otherwise, the composting idea (I'm not sure what regular composting toilets do and what comes out as a result--I'm pretty sure it still isn't safe enough to put into your veg garden, say, but definitely your flower garden or landscaping) sounds good. I looked into it briefly a while back for a possible tiny house behind my own house, and that's what I remember, though things may have changed and may be completely different in the UK (I'm in the us, unfortunately). I'm definitely going to look into the Bluetti, though, as I have a greenhouse and that may be a perfect solution to how to heat the tomato starts in the winter and so on. What a great van, and what great ideas you have for it! Thanks again, and may you always feel well. ♥️

[@pagewhite61]

The art van is fabulous! I’m so happy for you. Brilliant idea. The Bluetti and composting toilet are absolutely game changers. Smart choices. I can’t wait for plein air adventure videos in your van. Yay you!

[@LeslieStroz]

Thank you! I’m excited to share them here. 😊

[@TracieWho]

That composting toilet is brilliant! I also have a Bluetti that I take when we are camping in a spot without utilities. I have pretty severe OSA and cannot sleep without my CPAP machine. One thing I've found is that the heating element on my CPAP really drains my battery quite rapidly. It lasts a couple of nights when I turn the heating element off vs a couple of hours with it on. Just something I thought you might want to consider before you take an overnighter. How awesome for the folks over at Bluetti so collab with you!

[@LeslieStroz]

Thanks so much for the tips. I think a small, portable heater might place too much strain on the Bluetti, but I’m willing to give it a try for short trips. Eventually, I might get a diesel heater installed. I’m glad you’ve found a workaround for your CPAP. 😊

[@janetrusterucci3232]

Leslie great idea in setting up your Van. As a newbie to the whole painting concept, it just new crossed my mind.

[@joannecoulton4011]

Love your ideas… and yes, I have health issues, I love the composting toilet! …it makes sense! Thank you

[@Natalieleu]

Your "plain air van is awesome and I love the way you set it up.

[@deeoh3708]

Hi Leslie, Dee at LadyBugout has the same vehicle (red with black spots)... have a look at her bed set up. I think you will like the arrangements she uses. I like your backwards to forwards set up.. very comfy! Have fun painting, it sounds like its going to be wonderful for you! :) You have given me some good ideas too. ps.. please take care of your knees. I also have arthritis and really stops you in your tracks when the old knees play up!!

[@pviewer1234]

You are living my dream! I hope you can continue to do this for years. Thank you for sharing your 'build' ideas. I really, really enjoyed this video. Wishing you much happiness and a million creative ideas in your Art Van.

[@LeslieStroz]

Thanks so much! I hope your dreams come true as well. ❤

[@JoAnneSmith-di8ok]

I love this van. I love that you have it the way you want it! You think of all of the same creature comforts that I do. The ability to charge and plug things in. I love tea. I have arthritis, so I deal with a lot of pain. Especially with the cold, damp, and humidity. I use a heating pad a lot. The composting toilet is great! My friend had one in her van. She has MS. I would love to see this when you use it. I live in Pennsylvania USA. I get it about the cold, damp, rain and humidity. Lol😊

[@juliadixon-smith5416]

Your van looks well set up, organised ready to go and what wonderful adventures are to come. I’m so excited for you. You could try a low wattage caravan kettle from a camping shop that wouldn’t take too much power. You may spot some other useful items there. What about a little bed for Poppy to snuggle up in too. Have fun !

[@LeslieStroz]

She has a little bed now! A camping kettle is a good idea. There are sooo many things I plan to add eventually. 😊

[@pootlingalong8928]

I’ve just watched this early in the morning before I get up for work and it has put a smile on my face that I know will last all day. So practical! So cozy! So cute! Personally, I’d add one of those little square suitcase gas stoves just so you can cook a simple meal and to get you a hot drink if for some reason the electric unit fails. They are found all over the place £10 - £25. Poppy - adorable as ever, she looks so happy in her new adventure van ❤️

[@Tinrebel]

I’ve always wanted a small van like this also, this will be awesome for you, to travel around Devon, Cornwall, Dorset, you’re going to love it, love the West Country, painting and art! I’m in Southern California but adore English countrysides! Safe journeys!

[@janefan1216]

I LOVE your setup! I was wondering if you'd gotten a composting toilet,, but I didn't know you could find one that was so tiny! Very cute setup, amd I look forward to seeing your videos of you painting in your van while it's raining -- very ASMR. 😊 And looking forward to seeing you paint in the winter, while you're bundled up in your cozy van! ❤❤

[@LeslieStroz]

Thanks! I’m super excited about it. And yes, the small composting toilet is such a great design! 😊

[@pegboyd4312]

Nice rig. A portable loo is a must have. Convenience and comfort is what plein aire painting is all about.

[@deborahmeyers551]

Ohhhh Leslie I'm sorry you suffer chronic pain but I am over joyed for your utterly beautiful darling Van she beautiful and you're going to have amaizing journeys in her doing art and so so much more travelling 💖 can't wait to see all about where you drive to ❤

[@LeslieStroz]

Thanks so much! I’m excited to share my art travels here. 😊

[@lesleyking2815]

Thanks Leslie, brilliant video. I got my old Range Rover discovery in the spring, specifically for painting day trips but I hadn’t got round to setting it up like yours, didn’t know where to start 🤪 so now I’m inspired 👏 the toilet is great and yep I’ve had all the issues you mention, so rushing out to get one. If you get a little stove can you do a video on which you get please.

[@LeslieStroz]

Yes definitely! And congratulations!! I was debating about Land Rovers and Range Rovers... both great vehicles for this. Have fun kitting it out! 🚐❤️

[@douglashoward5738]

Hi Leslie, I just found your channel. Congrats on your new van. It looks very cozy. I’ll be going back to view more of your videos.

[@arcuda2001]

love it!! i've been doing plein air painting from my car for the last few years .. I love it!! i just sit in the front , and have my palette and brushes on the passenger side seat, and a closed cup of water in the coffee holder .. I do this fairly often , when the circumstances are such that i'm more comfy in my car ( i live outside of nyc, and it's difficult sometimes , to get out of the car and setup ) .. i've painted maybe 100 little studies and sketches because of the convenience that the car offers me .. sometimes it's also great when i'm doing urban sketches and can park near open cafe or sketch people right nearby .. they have no idea i'm sketching them as i'm in my car lol Enjoy this lovely van, and the experiences ahead!! well done !! Norakag

[@LeslieStroz]

A fellow car painter! 😊 Yes, I ended up painting from my car A LOT last year because of the rain. It is definitely cozy. I’m looking forward to my car painting 2.0 journeys! 🚙👩🏻‍🎨❤️

[@mariafessia5176]

OM gosh... If we had this in the states I would buy one! I hope it's everything you hoped!

[@PwnageFury]

This is such an inspiration. I have been wanting to do something like this so I can work on the road. My youngest works from home and my husband is semiretired. Sometimes I need space away from everyone to do deep thinking and writing. I wanted to set up my car for that but was not sure where to start and you have given me so many ideas. Thank you!

[@Saucy444]

You’re dream! So excited for you! 💕

[@msand43]

Leslie! I am thrilled to see this!!! I literally was talking about concept of travel solo and doing art and living the life I always wanted . You are genius ❤

[@pamelasmith6306]

Wow,,that’s a dream come true…I love it…very well thought out….

[@madebylora]

How exciting!!! So many possibilities! (I think I’d have nightmares about using the toilet, but great to have for emergencies, especially if you do stay overnight somewhere… or if you drink lots of tea hahaha)

[@LeslieStroz]

I was nervous too that things would go where they are supposed to, but it all works like a normal toilet and goes in the right areas. 😅

[@TheNailPolishHound]

Love this, thank you for sharing. I’m just getting into painting and recently found your channel.

[@zdzislawaprzyborska5653]

boiling water sucks up electricity like crazy. I highly recommend an alcohol stove (you can make it out of soda cans). Decathlon has some nice travel kettles...

[@sfoss9470]

How perfect for you! I’m sorry to hear you have chronic illnesses but I thank you for sharing because I do as well and showing all your ideas for comfort are great. I have a Buick encore and I could totally do 80 percent of what you did if I wanted to. ❤

[@LeslieStroz]

That’s wonderful! I hope that you do. We can find ways to do things even with illness. ❤

[@mandyolevnik4879]

Congrats Leslie! Looks inspiring. Perhaps you can travel to Cornwall and paint the tin mines. Padstow is gorgeous too. So many wonderful places in England to paint. Looking forward to your adventures.

[@LeslieStroz]

Thanks for the suggestion! Cornwall is definitely on my list. It’s so close, but was just a tad too far to do day trips in just the car (for me). 😊

[@annagray4208]

That's fabulous. So pleased for you.

[@CFord-wu3in]

So awesome! Can't wait to see how you set up your little kitchen!

[@craftykat]

That's awesome! You have a plein air van; how cool is that? Beautiful van, and awesome set up! I also love that Bluetti! I have a portable chair that folds and unfolds, that I bring in my car. It has cup holders and a little desk area; it's really cool and lightweight. Something like that would let you sit outside next to your van on nice days. Anyway, thanks for sharing! You're going to have so many wonderful travel painting adventures!

[@LeslieStroz]

Thanks! And yes, a chair for outside would be a nice addition someday! 😊

[@agnespeterse2529]

O Leslie, what a beautiful way to be comfortable while painting out-doors for you. It will be wonderful!!! And I'm looking forward for updates❤

[@LeslieStroz]

Thanks! I’m excited too. 😊

[@bfranklin1052]

What a cozy van! I love it! Kudos to you, Leslie. This made me so inspired to find a similar solution here in the US. Thanks so much!

[@LeslieStroz]

I’d probably go for a minivan if I lived in the US. They have stow away seats and are a bit longer. Plus, they are super stealthy! 😊

[@MiaStar]

This is such a fabulous arrangement, I love how efficiently you've set it up so that it has the spacious feel of minimalism but still has all these luxurious touches and "extras" that really bring it to next level comfort. As someone with chronic health issues (fibro, ibs, etc) who dreams of semi van life, I am dying over the power station for your heating pad and the toilet. I love your emphasis on how much window the vehicle has as well, as my biggest gripe with suvs in the US is how every new generation sees less and less window... I want to go car camping in what feels like a greenhouse, not a basement! Right now I have an 08 Toyota 4Runner which was the best I could afford here in New England, but if money was no object I would prefer a 90s edition of 4runner or Ford Explorer or GMC Jimmy, just to have those big side windows. I absolutely love how you can slide open both doors and open the hatch and you have the best of both worlds: comfort and protection, but also near-itegration with your surroundings. It really is fantastic! I've just discovered your channel in the last 2ish weeks and while I'm probably a 1st grade level beginner in watercolor I've been a road trip/van life fanatic for probably 25 years so I'm wicked excited to see videos of your adventures with this new mobile studio! I also hope to see videos of your tiny house and your garden property, because those are 2 other avid interests of mine. Happy creating 💜🌈💜

[@LeslieStroz]

YES! The windows keep getting higher and smaller. Your Forerunner will be excellent for painting adventures. There are loads of SUV and minivan conversion videos with great ideas. I’d love to have a little wood burner, but don’t trust myself to install one safely, so the Bluetti is a good fit to start. I hope you have many creative outings! 😊

[@FuzzyDoxie]

This is super exciting! Can’t wait to see your adventures

[@lulumoonwoodmurakami8734]

This is such an inspiration! As someone enchanted with the idea of van life but really attached to my home garden, this looks like a best of both worlds option I hadn’t considered before. I think I’ll research comparable vehicles here in the US that could work like yours does. Thank you!

[@kathymoffat761]

Superb video, Leslie, you are such an inspiration. Always wanted an airstream art studio that doubles as a spare room. But this goes one better as it is so mobile. I hope we are able to see you out and about with your great little van in the future. Also, thank you for the tips about the Natsume woon palettes, I bought one yesterday for plein air sessions on the go. I really liked the honeycomb cherry wood one. Just to keep in my backpack on hikes. In the future I will add in extra ones when I can afford to. Thank you for all your inspirational teachings and videos, so professionally created. Kind regards and enjoy your travels, Kathy xxxx

[@LeslieStroz]

Thanks so much, Kathy. I love that honeycomb palette too and am glad you’re enjoying yours. There are so many lovely options these days for us plein air artists. 👩🏻‍🎨

[@lissettetaladay1692]

Omg thank you for this. I struggle with Lupus (sle), Ra, iBC. I Iive in Seattle and totally relate to the cold and my joints hurt to bad when it begins to rain. I have felt very depressed that I am 41 and can no longer plan long trips or travel because of the chronic pain with muscle spasms, nuero pain, achy pain, etc. I never thought about getting a car to do day trips. This is such a great idea. Thank you for making this video. ❤ All the best with your autoimmune conditions and I am happy you are able to get out and get that inspirations and creative spark from being outdoors!

[@LeslieStroz]

I’m happy to help inspire other chronic pain sufferers. I totally understand your struggle. Our climate here is very similar to Seattle’s. Finding ways to adapt is essential, but it can be done. Life isn’t over with chronic illness; it’s just different. But many blessings also arise from challenges. I hope you find ways to comfort and nurture yourself and your creativity. ❤

[@aekorfker]

This is so inspiring as a fellow creative with chronic pain, I’m so excited for you!

[@LeslieStroz]

I’m happy to share ideas for how to live with chronic pain and still do fun and creative things. ❤

[@aekorfker]

@@LeslieStroz 🙏

[@karatehamstermami]

Absolutely awesome. Thanks for sharing.

[@joannephillips5991]

I’m so happy for you. The freedom it will give you is amazing. Happy painting! I am looking forward to seeing more of England as you paint.

[@LeslieStroz]

Thanks so much, Joanne! I’m looking forward to bringing you along on my painting adventures. 👩🏻‍🎨🚐❤

[@nalissa77]

That is so cool. I'm jealous. lol Enjoy.

[@janlorman7700]

Wow, what a great purchase! Love the small useful items you have found, especially the potty! Enjoy and can’t wait to see how you find van life as you use your new van. Thanks! ❤️👍

[@LeslieStroz]

Thanks! Yes, the potty is one of the best parts! I’m also excited to include a heater and kettle… next best thing to being home! 😊

[@elainefournier7376]

What a blessing! I am so happy for you :) This is perfect. All well thought out. Loving the power station and toilet. The last part of the video is my preferred setting. Happy painting my inspiring watercolor artist. You are great and deserves this luxury :) Thank you for sharing all that you do and your adventures!

[@LeslieStroz]

Thanks so much, Elaine! It will be fun to see how it evolves. I think I’ll prefer the side bench too, if only because I can take naps. 😅

[@Angie-pl3uw]

How very xciti g for you. Have you named your vehicle? You must! I would never imagine that you have any auto-immune conditions or suffer constant pain. I have fibromyalgia and a, elderly it isn’t a good,combo, but, it is what it is! Happy painting. Have you gone on an over-night yet? Please show us your tiny house!

[@LeslieStroz]

Thanks, Angie. I have a video that showcases my tiny house (the tiny painting tips video). I’m very sorry to hear that you struggle with pain; it’s no easy thing, I know. And yes, like many chronic pain sufferers, I’m good at hiding things. I don’t talk about it much here because I want this to be a space for people to escape pain, but I also thought it was important to be honest about why this van is so important to me, and perhaps give others in a similar position some ideas for plein air painting in spite of health obstacles. It is a type of art therapy! 😊❤

[@LeslieStroz]

Also, I think her name is Betty. 😊

[@betsy773]

Congratulations 🎉🎉🎉 I am happy for you. ❤❤❤

[@gripplehound]

How wonderful! I’m dying to start vanlife full time and dream of being parked up somewhere super quiet to just paint and crochet. I’m so pleased for you! 🎉

[@LeslieStroz]

That sounds ideal. ❤ I hope you can start with little day trips to get used to the idea. 😊

[@DawnSnider]

This looks amazing! What a great idea :)

[@pamelasusanne22]

Awesome set up!

[@ChantelleArts]

wow you've really thought of everything! it's going to be amazing for you 🥰

[@LeslieStroz]

Thank you! 😊

[@SchubertFan]

It’s your biggest pochade box yet! 🤣🎨. I love it!

[@claychick100]

This looks like so much fun! You have thought this through and made it very practical and comfortable. Makes me think of how I might use my vehicle! Thanks for sharing!

[@LeslieStroz]

Plein air artists unite! 😊

[@martinaanagnostou7422]

This is sooo cool Leslie 🤩 may you have many a creative adventure in your new van studio 👩🏼‍🎨🥰

[@LeslieStroz]

Thanks, Martina! Sadly, it’s too far to drive to visit you. 😅❤

[@LightshamanaDhyana]

You can get a beach folding chair which has no legs, close to the ground but has back support.

[@RaspberryColors]

Love it! Perfect easy setup.

[@terririley186]

Congratulations! Am so excited for you. I love the way you’ve outfitted it so far!!! What fun!!! Enjoy!!!

[@LeslieStroz]

Thank you!! ☺️

[@LavenderDebs]

Living my dream! Live it well... looking forward to seeing how it works out for you (and my dreams)

[@LeslieStroz]

I’ll share the journey here. 😊

[@ednapuckett1042]

I’ve seen Van lifers who use electric blankets, but the heating pad is a great idea. My hip often hurts after a long drive.

[@lindahipple4817]

Hi Leslie, your van set up is just beautiful. You've considered everything. Can't wait for your next adventure..blessings.

[@LeslieStroz]

Thanks, Linda! Me too! ❤

[@lynneellis2647]

That is so nice!

[@donna-elizabeth]

What a fabulous van! Love the skylight...that would be brilliant to fall asleep to the stars! The toilet is amazing too...actually didn't really know how they worked until now. New sub here!

[@marit4660]

I love this set-up! You get the best of both worlds. Looking forward to seeing videos of plein air adventuring in your new van! 💗

[@LeslieStroz]

Thanks! I’m excited to venture further afield now that I have a little cabin on wheels. 🚐☺️

[@elizabethcameron6045]

I paint from my small 2007 Honda and that is alright, but your van takes it all to a new level! I am happy for you and this video made me feel expansive inside feeling all possibilities! Happy plein-air painting!