Inspiration is like a single drop of water that falls from the great dark clouds, followed by a heavy downpour. It can emerge unexpectedly, anywhere at any time, especially when least expected. Universally, people agree that the best ideas don’t often arise when intentionally sitting down to work. However, this doesn’t mean that individuals shouldn’t actively seek ideas and inspiration. (of course, there’d be a deadline to keep up) It’s not like something learned today must be used tomorrow, an idea born 10 years ago might end up being useful today. Yesterday’s inspiration might take form after several days but it will never be something that goes futile.
The majority of people travel daily, either to offices, schools, or random places. However, this routine comes with a certain sense of pressure. Even with a daily commute, the word “travel” typically conjures thoughts of vacation. This proves how travel is a means to relax and break free from the chains of routine. Now the funny part is that many times this journey which is done to change the routine might end up creating a spark like no other causing the blaze of creativity to light up the whole space. Even while traveling to the same place sometimes, searching for an idea might lead to getting inspiration from the most basic things from the surroundings. Travel is not limited to the physical realm; it can also be a mental experience, like finding solutions on Pinterest or having a breakthrough in a dream.
Visiting historical sites is equivalent to artistically experiencing a cultural taste. Even in ruins, there’s a sense of awe, imagining what the original structure might have been like. Besides instilling pride, historical sites often serve as a wellspring of inspiration. For example, following the Gothic period, architectural styles moved through the Renaissance and Baroque and eventually reached minimalism. While not a revival of ancient architecture, there’s progress, such as the construction of mud houses with bamboo frames to conserve the environment and almost revive vernacular architecture. But at the same time, it’s not like enormous structures are built, this just isn’t that kind of time, either humans have lost the craftsmanship or it has more to do with the economic growth of the world either way that’s not the topic.
Despite cities often appearing similar with uniform buildings, rules, and people, each city possesses a unique architectural marvel. If art were a person, it would be the center of attraction, and culture would have been the proud mother. (This might also be vice versa for no one knows what might have come first. One could argue that paintings existed before cultures but that doesn’t define how cave paintings from across the world varied in several aspects)Travel is more than visiting different places; it’s a holistic process of experiencing and living in a different place mentally even before the physical journey begins. Art has profoundly impacted human lives throughout history.
One of the first major pursuits of humans was art, providing comfort and a means of self-expression. Cave paintings were not random scribbles but conveyed deeper meanings. Over the years, art has evolved alongside people, forming a reciprocal circle where artists, create art that, when inspired in turn, inspires others. Brandon Boyd’s quote, “Art is everywhere, and everywhere is art,” captures the essence of art in people’s lives. Buildings, as artistic structures, engage our senses. Every culture worldwide is born from a rich history, evolving. Cultures, rooted in history, customs, and practices, possess a deep attachment to those who believe in them. While cultures are born out of science, over time, they are often reduced to mere practices, losing the beliefs that initiated them. Nevertheless, they continue to inspire people.
Many journeys are incomplete without delving into the art and culture of the visited place. Even in nature exploration, the landscape and climate serve as compensations, forming a reciprocal relationship. Inspiration, at times, can extend beyond work, it could change one’s life and might even improve their character. A historical hero’s tale or the emotionally charged work of an artist can profoundly influence an individual, giving them a new perspective on life. Moreover, someone not affiliated with a specific field might discover new found inspiration, compelling them to pursue their true passion and initiate work in that domain. Travel, whether for professional or personal reasons, holds the potential to spark inspiration in individuals.
Travel, art, and culture are forever intertwined. Even in nature, there is art associated with an animal’s culture. (common humans aren’t the only people here) Inspiration from these places has a foundational aspect, as it has existed for some time. The true creativity lies in translating this information into living structures. The most natural way to get inspired is to travel and explore the art and culture of different places globally. It expands one’s horizons and perspectives to embrace life in new ways.
References:
Delpixart. (2017) World landmarks photo collage on vintage tes sepia textured background, travel, tourism and study around the world concept, vintage postcard. [Digital Art] Available at : https://www.istockphoto.com/photo/world-landmarks-photo-collage-on-vintage-tes-sepia-textured-background-travel-tourism-gm698902340-129472517
Flocutus. Stock Photo Hindu Temple of the Sun. [Photograph] Available at : https://stock.adobe.com/images/hampi-karnataka/36019261?as_campaign=ftmigration2&as_channel=dpcft&as_campclass=brand&as_source=ft_web&as_camptype=acquisition&as_audience=users&as_content=closure_asset-detail-page
TraseOne. Alive@Clive [Photograph] Available at:
https://qi-integrated.com/deepavalist/13-times-street-art-in-little-india-amazed-us/
Vecstock. Glowing filament ignites ideas for innovative solutions. [Digital Art] Available at:
https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/glowing-filament-ignites-ideas-innovative-solutions-generated-by-ai_40968096.htm#query=inspiration&position=43&from_view=search&track=sph
