In Depth: Creative Inspiration From Modern Muses

One of the greatest fears or obstacles for an artist is running out of steam and getting stuck mid-way into a project. Artists from every field share this struggle. Writer's block, imposter syndrome, or a dry spell, it can be a phase or an emotional state in which an artist feels lost, without a clear direction to proceed in their work.

In film photography or any other artistic endeavor you have tried, you have probably come across moments like this. Perhaps that's even where you are right now – doubting your work and cursing the day you started. So how to get off this awful track?

Where do we get inspiration?

In ancient times, poets would invoke the help of the muses to regain inspiration and find their lyrical voice once again.

"The Nine Greek Muses, in ancient Greek mythology, were the daughters of Zeus, the king of the gods, and Mnemosyne, the Titaness of memory. The Muses were believed to be the inspirers of various arts and sciences, providing divine guidance and creativity to artists, poets, musicians, and scholars. Each Muse was associated with a different artistic or intellectual domain". Cierra Tolentino

It was believed that the source of talent was a gift from the gods and that humans were the vessel through which the muses acted. That's why it was common to invoke their help to create any piece of literature, theater, dance, or music. Legend says that the poet Homer sought out the Muse Calliope when writing his epics, The Iliad and The Odyssey.

This idea of seeking inspiration elsewhere can be comforting. Although it may also be disconcerting for us to think that there are various mystical entities that take possession of us to create our work.

A more sober approach might be to look to other forms of expression than the one we practice, to expand our interests, our knowledge, and finally, hopefully, find the missing piece we have been looking for.

Muses of our times

Turning to different outlets may help your work. Directing your mind toward poetry, music or performing arts could get you out of a rut. A visual artist should know about other forms of creative work that can fuel inspiration and drive motivation.

We often talk about writers painting pictures with their words, and images as pieces of poetry. Lets restore our souls through the written word, and stir emotions that will then translate into visual images. A healthy dose of cross-cultural exchange is vital in rejuvenating a lifeless work. Even if we are not dedicated to mixed media practices, experimenting with new approaches might unlock the knots that grip us tightly.

There is an intrinsically woven relationship between each field, and we often take this partnership for granted. Take a step back and remember the benefits that come from each field. Music improves brain function, while literature expands your language skills, thus helping you to improve your ideas, clarifying and decoding the message you want to convey, while the performing arts help interpret meaning and feelings of nonverbal communications, which may be crucial in helping you when editing your work, for example.

When we blur the boundaries between disciplines, we can break down traditional barriers and explore new approaches to making art. Taking risks, trying new things, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in one's respective fields. Remembering the importance of integrating different elements and perspectives to create a cohesive and meaningful whole is paramount.

If you think this is easy, think twice. Getting out of your comfort zone is hard for everyone. We feel comfortable enjoying safety, and that's probably why we get stuck in the first place. This is the moment when you are re-activating your synapses, and the challenge will help you grow.

Take your time

Lastly, it is worth considering that perhaps you have simply run out of energy, and it is time to take a break. We are observers, and finding the time to look around ourselves is key. Enjoy a vacation without carrying your camera with you (yes, I know it sounds scary!) and be in the moment without any goals.

This piece of advice cannot be more relevant to the times we are living right now. It is important to remind ourselves to be present and live the moment for what it is instead of constantly recording, documenting, collecting, sharing. . .

After a short break, exploring various artistic mediums without targets or expectations, it is often easier to dive back into your work, reinvigorated and inspired once more!

Are you currently experiencing a creative block? What are your ticks to get back on track? Share your secrets in the comments below.

written by eparrino on 2023-11-26 #in-depth #inspiration #muses #creative-block