INTRODUCTION

In·spi·ra·tion

   [in-spuh-rey-shuh n]

noun

1.

an inspiring or animating action or influence

2.

Something inspired, as an idea.

3.

A result of inspired activity.

4.

A thing or person that inspires

(Dictionary.com)

According to its definition, inspiration exists in many forms. It is something that inspires, it is something, or someone, that is inspired, and it is the product of that inspiration. Art, in all of its multiple styles, has quite often been the result of someone’s inspiration. What inspires artists to paint, to write, or to compose what they do?   That question may be one for the artist to answer, but what about you as the viewer? Art, the product of inspiration, can also be the source of inspiration. Possibly, some of you may leave this exhibit today feeling “inspired” by what you see and hear. That inspiration may move you to create your own work of art, and in this way the art has now become the product as well as the source of inspiration.

Back to the original question: What inspires the inspired? Is art a product of another art’s inspiration? If so, how is it that this inspiration can transcend the various artistic mediums with their distinct languages? Literature speaks in the language of words and structure that can describe scenes as well as emotions to its viewer. Visual Art speaks the vivid language of color, shape, and line which has the power to generate an image. Music, however, speaks an invisible language that breaks down all barriers of culture. The sounds and the texture of the notes speak to the emotions of all listeners allowing them to generate meaning. It suggests, rather than describes. Because of this, it has the capability to translate the languages of the other mediums into its invisible language. Notes and sounds explain a scene like the words of a poem. With only audible noises, instruments can paint a visual image.  In the following exhibit, you will see how the various art forms inspire each other and how music with its ability to translate art’s many languages acts as the center of this mutual inspiration.