I remember many years ago when it struck me. I’m not even sure what sparked the idea. But it was profound.
The thing that astounded me was the realization that everything I created (whether it was a song, a short story, a comedy sketch, or a painting) started as an idea in my mind. It began as an intangible spark of inspiration.
Then, through physical action in the 3D world, that idea became a real thing — a painting someone could hang on a wall, a story someone could read, a song someone could hear, a theatrical performance someone could watch and enjoy.
I was blown away by that expanded awareness of the power of imagination. And I still am. Are you?
Of course, I don’t have exclusive rights to this process. Every manmade item was created in exactly this way. Chairs, tables, cars, light bulbs, mobile phones, hair dryers, toilet paper, and soap. Everything started as an idea in someone’s mind.
Equally eye-opening was the realization that none of these ideas would have become tangible things if someone had not taken additional steps. For any object to come into existence, the original inspiration must be acted upon.
The person who conceived the idea must either write it down, create a sketch or blueprint, record it, perform it, build it, or at least communicate it to another human being who can take action on it.
Ideas alone die on the vine.
But ideas coupled with action produce tangible results. It’s a simple concept to grasp, but that doesn’t make it any less amazing.
Therefore, if your goal is to be an Empowered Artist, you will help your cause by maintaining a sense of awe about the artistic process you engage in.
It isn’t a frivolous game.
It’s a miraculous act of creation. And you are fortunate enough to be an active participant.
-Bob
From my book, “The Empowered Artist.” Available on Amazon (as a paperback and ebook) in 13 countries.
