A Closer Look at “A Baroque Violin Concerto”
Good day to all aspiring singers and artists. Today I want to address how music inspires me daily and dictates at times what I paint. We will be looking closer at “Baroque Concerto” which I painted to music.
As you read in the dedication to my mother, I was exposed to music while still in the womb and after that almost daily in the home and school. Together Mom and I shared a passion for Broadway musicals and of course, Christmas Carols. Over the years I have gained a much deeper appreciation for classical string and wind instruments, Christian, and Blue Grass music. There is actually very little music I don’t like.
Often when I want to start a new painting, I will either select a photo or musical piece that recently grabbed my attention. Listening to music can help me find that creative streak much needed to start an abstract painting.
We attend quarterly venues of our local Redmond Community Concert series. This past year, I was struck by the creativity of various trios and quartets. There were sounds from a bass Cello I never knew were possible! I leave these concerts with a deep joy and appreciation each time. For at least a month after one concert, I became “obsessed” with listening to a multitude of talented instrumental string groups and in particular the music of Rafael Krux. Thus, the creation of “ A Baroque Violin Concerto” was born.
I played Krux’s Baroque music and let the brush take over. The curves and bars came naturally. The bright colors reflect the mood of the music. I decided to use thin tape to create the look of sheet music ( placed before painting to maintain clear white margins, removed once paint is dry). I added charcoal black swirls to create depth of layering since music scores are complex, and to emphasize the motion musical sounds elicit. Now each time I see this painting, as abstract as it is, the joy the music brings me comes to life again.
Listening to music can help me find the creative streak much needed to start an abstract painting. This painting was done while I was listening to my favorite violin pieces by Rafael Krux. The curves and bars came naturally. The bright colors reflect the mood of the music. Now each time I see this painting, as abstract as it is, the joy the music brings me comes to life again.
Watercolor with charcoal on Arches CP unmated 15” x 19”
Framed measurements see image is 24” x 20”
Available fully framed (black ) with white matting if preferred at no cost.
It is in this particular project that my passion for music and painting come together. This isn’t the first time nor will it be (I hope) the last.
If you ever are unsure of what you would like to paint (as I like to call it “can’t find my mojo”) try playing music that has always inspired you? Has been a favorite for years, or you recently found intriguing?
Passion that accompanies meaningful art, can be of any form: grief, joy, anger, confusion….. Try to find some connection with your art other than the color scheme and the paper. If you can make that connection at any level, your work will more likely have an honest impact on others.
Photography is another primary source for my creativity. A topic for another weekly blog.
Would you like to share what motivates you to paint or to sing?
