The Artistic Inspiration
On a recent trip down to Sarasota for US Rowing Youth Nationals, I had a little free time. Eureka! First stop, art museum! I’ll admit that my first thought was actually, “where can I spend a whole bunch of time in a whole bunch of air conditioning?” It really was so hot while I was down there. As I exited my hotel, it felt like a blow torch was aggressively firing me backward at the door. Cool air was a necessity. That said, art museums are always on my radar wherever I go. I love to see what has inspired others and how I can learn from that. I always leave ready to return home and paint, draw, or build something.
The Ringling Museum of Art did not disappoint. In fact, it was fabulous. I pretended to be Gwyneth Paltrow from the Great Expectations movie that came out in the late 1990’s and stood out on the terrace of Ca’ D’Zan, the gorgeous Venetian style house on the property. I waited for Ethan Hawke to walk out and look at me with love, but sadly he did not. Next, I blissfully entered the buildings of circus history and fine art. Strangely, all of these things seem so unrelated but make for a most interesting day of discovery.
The inspiration that came from the circus museums was that I am inspired to never join a circus. But I loved the history, costuming, and sets. The fine art collection was outstanding and I wondered the halls for hours. Luckily, there were hardly any crowds on this hot June weekday so I had the place almost to myself. There was a special exhibit on magic and spirits (from beyond) so that made for a creepy good time.
Sometimes I wonder if I’ve missed my calling. Again, obviously not for the circus. I can’t think of a single aspect of the circus where I would excel. Tightrope? Nope. I’m too afraid of heights. I did try trapeze once and did fine on the swinging bit. But I couldn’t easily do the flip off the net at the end to get back on the ground, so that doesn’t bode well for my longevity in the activity. I’m certainly not going to ride a motorcycle really fast in a ball-shaped cage. No, I think I missed my calling to pursue arts more heartily. Sure, it’s hard to make a living but there is so much beauty. Sigh.
I guess I will stick to the idea that I will keep creating in my own way. Writing, painting random things, building things. There may never be someone who stands in an air-conditioned museum staring at my work on the wall in awe. But, never say never! I remain inspired.