Legend Myth And Magic In The Image Of The Artist
Artists have long been associated with legends, myths, and magic. From the ancient stories of the Greek muses to the modern-day tales of famous painters like Vincent van Gogh, artists have been viewed as something otherworldly, imbued with an almost supernatural power.
But why is this? What is it about the image of the artist that has captured our imaginations for centuries? In this article, we'll explore the many ways in which legends, myths, and magic have influenced our perception of artists throughout history.
The Mythical Origins of Art
One of the earliest myths about the origins of art comes from the ancient Greeks. According to legend, the nine muses were responsible for inspiring artists and poets with their creative powers. Each muse was associated with a particular art form, such as dance, music, or poetry.
Similar myths exist in other cultures as well. In Norse mythology, the god Odin sacrificed one of his eyes in order to gain wisdom and knowledge, and was said to have passed this knowledge on to poets and artists. In Hindu mythology, the god Brahma is credited with creating the universe and all of its beauty through his creative powers.
The Magic of Inspiration
The idea that artists are somehow touched by a higher power, and that their creativity is fueled by something magical and ineffable, is a common one. Many artists themselves have spoken about the mysterious nature of inspiration.
For example, the painter Georgia O'Keeffe once said, "I found I could say things with color and shapes that I couldn't say any other way - things I had no words for." The novelist Virginia Woolf likewise spoke of the "flicker" of inspiration that would come to her when she was writing.
Artists as Magicians
The idea that artists are magicians, capable of creating something out of nothing, is another common theme. This is perhaps most evident in the realm of visual art, where painters and sculptors are often seen as transforming raw materials into something beautiful and meaningful.
But artists of all kinds can be seen as magicians in their own right. Writers, for example, create entire worlds out of words, while musicians weave melodies that can transport us to another time and place.
The Tragic Artist
Another common trope in the world of art is that of the tragic artist. This idea suggests that artists are somehow cursed, that their creative powers come at a great cost.
This theme can be seen in the lives of many famous artists, such as Vincent van Gogh, who famously sliced off his own ear in a fit of madness. It can also be seen in the art itself, in works that express a sense of melancholy or despair.
The Conclusion
Throughout history, artists have been associated with legends, myths, and magic. Whether it's the idea that they are touched by a higher power, or the notion that they are capable of transforming raw materials into something beautiful and meaningful, the image of the artist has captured our imaginations for centuries.
But perhaps the most enduring myth of all is the idea that artists are somehow tragic, that their creative powers come at a great cost. While this may be true in some cases, it's important to remember that artists are people too, and that their creativity is ultimately a reflection of their humanity.