Chicago in Summer

It’s summer in Chicago. Without having to go to class, I’ve had a few moments to think about what motivates me as an artist. One of the elements at the top of my motivation list is inspiration. Sometimes we assume inspiration comes out of the blue and strikes a select few with genius. When that happens I call that divine inspiration. However, I’m thinking about a more practical type of inspiration. Let’s call it inspiration by osmosis. (I bet you didn’t think high school biology would come in handy for this blog huh?)

I like to position myself to receive inspiration or put myself in interesting situations where I’ll be exposed to new ideas. The great thing is if you keep your mind open, inspiration can come from any place. This summer has provided lots of sources of inspiration.

Messy Desktop

Positioning yourself to receive inspiration can be as simple as organizing. I’m guilty of living in chaos. Does your computer look like this? Cringe worthy, right? Sometime we have to “set the table” to process ideas more succinctly. We need to make sure everything is in order and ready to go so we can attack any project with a minimum of surprises or annoyances. Nothing is more stressful when you can’t find a file, jpeg, email or whatever. The search puts your project on the back burner, stifling inspiration.

Suppose you’re a neatnik that has all their files in place. Now it’s time for you to find inspiration if it doesn’t find you. Like I saidc summer in Chicago is a great time for that. Last time I told you how I went out and experienced grilled cheese sandwiches. However, so much has been going on my mind is teeming with new ideas. The World Cup is a great example. For a few weeks Chicagoans have gathered in mass to watch a game of soccer…oh my bad…football. Watching people put on the red, white and blue and succumb to the mass hysteria is the story. People flocked to Grant Park for more than a game. They did it for a communal experience. It’s the artist’s calling to figure out why. Finding the “why” opens your mind up to inspiration.

Harold Washington Library

Just recently I went to the Harold Washington Library. I can’t believe I’ve never been there before. The building is beautiful, could use more power outlets, but still beautiful. It is also steps from campus!  It’s been a while since I’ve gotten lost in the stacks. Now I throw it back to you. What gets your wheels turning? What will you do to inspire yourself?