Let's Talk Inspiration for a Minute...

Inspiration is an interesting thing.

According to Dictionary.com it is the following:

in⋅spi⋅ra⋅tion
/ˌɪnspəˈreɪʃən/ Show Spelled Pronunciation [in-spuh-rey-shuhn] Show IPA
–noun
1. an inspiring or animating action or influence: I cannot write poetry without inspiration.
2. something inspired, as an idea.
3. a result of inspired activity.
4. a thing or person that inspires.
5. Theology.
a. a divine influence directly and immediately exerted upon the mind or soul.
b. the divine quality of the writings or words of a person so influenced.
6. the drawing of air into the lungs; inhalation.
7. the act of inspiring; quality or state of being inspired.

Is that what inspiration is to you?

It's kind of funny...the first few definitions in this list make perfect sense. They are exactly what you would expect to see in a definition of the word Inspiration. However, I was quite caught by definition #6.

Inspiration: The drawing of air into the lungs; inhalation.

Never before have I seen these words - inhalation and inspiration - used together in such a manner. It is as if they are synonymous in a way. And, while I've never been introduced to them as such prior to reading this definition, I feel as though I have viewed inspiration in this way for a very long time. You see, it makes perfect sense.

Inspiration = Inhalation. Taking it all in. Absorbing design, emotion, feeling, color, line, style, contrast, and hue just as the lungs absorb oxygen. Inspiration is the very life force of Art. It is what keeps each piece breathing. I can't think of a more beautiful correlation.

So, this, of course, begs the question...if oxygen is provided by the environment, what then, does this very same environment provide in the way of inspiration. What are you inhaling to bring life to your art?

Here are a few things that have been taking my breath away as of late...or, providing it, as it may be.

If you are not familiar with Somerset Studio Magazine or any of the Stampington Publications, I strongly urge you to RUN to your nearest book shop and pick up a copy. The artists that are showcased are amazing and I have read the current issue literally more times than I can count at this point, each time breathing in something new and exhilarating to carry with me to my next piece!

As you guys already know, I love Etsy! However, I don't just love it for all the super fabulous handmade goodness that I can purchase there, I also love it for the sheer creative energy that flows through the site. Every time I sit down to peruse through page after page of cuteness or vintage fabulousness, I leave with an urge to make something wonderful!

BLOGS                                        

Another place where I am constantly looking for that breath of fresh mountain air to fill my creative lungs is on various blogs.  Yes, I read a couple of big names, but I prefer those fabulous artists who just make stuff because they have a pure and unadulterated passion for their art.  I was so fortunate to come upon several of those during Whimsical Bohemian's One World One Heart event .  But, I have to be honest.  I want more.  I think I may be an oxygen hog.  I want to breathe deeply in the art of others in order to spur on my own creations.  So...before you leave today, let me know what it is that inspires you.  I would love links to wonderful places!  Particularly art doll and mixed media happy places...those are really doing wonders for me at the moment.  Even if it is your own!  Let me know!
I want to absorb!
I want to inhale.
I want to be inspired.