What inspires me as an artist? Hmm, well, not exactly coffee and pastries, as the title to this post suggests; however, the place to consume these items, a small coffee shop, has often sprung some inspiration into my mind. Sometimes when I'm in a funk with my art, all I need is a relaxing place with great art to clear my mind and fill it with art. A coffee shop provides just that ambiance for me. Most coffee shops tend to have local artist's work on display, and I love staring at all the different creations as I sip a latte, admiring their work and gathering ideas that I could possibly incorporate into a piece of my own. It's like a small art museum with no admission. One coffee shop in particular that I love to go to is the Blend. It's close and convenient, and it provides lots of inspiration for me as an artist. The Blend has such a peaceful aura, with the smell of coffee beans, soft music, and the comfort, that provides me with peace of mind and allows me to really look at the art. Most often, there is a specific artist or style featured that rotates every once i awhile. I love when i walk in and there is a whole new set of art on display, for my viewing pleasure. I become entranced with certain pieces and inspired by some also. One artist in particular that has had work at the Blend that really makes me in the mood to create is Jean Filson. I absolutely love her art, and love seeing it on display. My favorite piece of hers is called "Sitting, Waiting, Wishing" and has been on display there more than once. I could stare at this painting for hours.
http://www.jeanfilson.com/fineArt.htm
I guess in general you could just say that I'm inspired by art itself. Seeing the works of other artists brings ideas to me, and puts me in the mood to make my own art.
I know the pieces you are referring to. I actually worked with Jean Filson when I had an art gallery and she has such an interesting story. Most of her work has been done in VERY recent years since her son died in a terrible car crash. All of it is inspired from that. If you ever get a chance to talk with her about it, I would.
ReplyDeleteI totally see you sitting in a little coffee shop and unfortunately I have never sat in The Blend to see Jean Filson's work; so I will be taking a trip to the blend soon. I have sat in Panera and Starbucks and I also find that coffee shops are a great place to find inspiration and to get a few observational drawings done. I also go to my little brothers' extra cirricular activities and find a little inspiration there...even at karate classes.
ReplyDeleteBre I totally love the fact that this inspires you. It's comforting to know you can relax, and take a look back. It shows you can be serious, and yet calming. Like you're grounded, and in control. Yet you're not afraid to let your mind wander.
ReplyDeleteBre, I think that your inspiration is definaely fitting of you :). I agree with Zach and Nena that coffee shops are a fantastic place to get inspired. There are so many things going on to stimulate creative thinking such as the smells, the people, and the overall atmosphere. We'll have to go more often my friend :)
ReplyDeleteBre, I love Jean's work as well. Also, coffee shops always seem to bring me inspiration as well. I go to starbucks a lot with Sam, and it is not even the art on the walls but the color schemes and everything just are always so soothing and beautiful to me! We should go sometime, art is always a great thing to discuss:)
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