0.1 Role models

Most of us began our journey in art by seeing or hearing a particular artist. Their presentation moved usemotionally effecting us still to this day. For me, the first time I heard Johnny Cash strum his guitar and sing, it hit a note deepwithin my heart. Then of course KISS came along with the fire, glamour and loud music that was exciting. Then I met Harry Chapinand his music was different, it had a philosophical ring to it. This was something I gravitated towards. Using art to express amessage of hope, love and growth.

Looking back over some twenty plus years of my life, I see a trail of influences that have molded, shaped ormotivated me to create along the same lines of art. Now while it is important to have influences, a true artist takes an idea, song,style, etc…and then makes it into their own. We don’t want to mimic, we want to evolve our influences into our own unique voice.We want to become their equals not their pupils.

Knowing who motivates you, that made you choose a life of artistry, helps you to understand what your artmessage is. Now we all can’t be Jimmy Page, or Jimi Hendrix, but we all have something to offer. Our individual contributions bring acompleteness to the art community. Our voice helps shape, mold, and move art along its path of growth.

Embrace the road you want to take with your art. You must look at those influences of your art to determinewhat it is about them that moves you first. In doing this you begin to see a pattern or message that you can blend with your own art.You are beginning to identify what your core art message is. Yes, it does change throughout your career, but first you must know whatyour trying to accomplish. So lets do that.

Question: What influences from other artists do you have. Why do you think you admire them so? What do they dofor you emotionally.

Question: What of these attributes do you have?

Question: Is there a way to obtain a measure of the talents, aptitude, and attributes you don't have?

Question: What order would you take in obtaining these attributes and what steps would you take to getthere?