Abstract: A ventilation system for use by artists when working with paints and solvents is disclosed. The system includes a palette assembly wherein a palette is mounted on the inside of a housing which is connected to a blower so as to create a negative air pressure in the housing to force harmful vapors through the housing, into the blower, and away from the artist. The system also includes a respiration unit to be used by the artist when mixing paints and solvents or painting with them. The unit includes a compressor (air pump) which is placed in clean air and provides a supply of air, a filter for further purifying the air, and a mask for receiving the fresh air for use in a studio. In an alternate embodiment, the mask further includes rebreather bag to ensure the user of a sufficient supply of purified air at lower SCFM output.