Seth Apter ~ In and Out

By Creative Contributor: Seth Apter

 

Inspiration is a mysterious thing. Its very definition - the action of moving the emotions - indicates the power and significance that goes along with being inspired. Inspiration can come from an unlimited number of sources. It can be highly personal and individual or it can be collective. And to me, inspiration is undeniably linked to art. I mean this in terms of the artist's inner drive and need to create, as well as the response that is elicited in others by the completed art itself. In fact, one of the definitions to me of an artist is one who inspires through their artwork.

What moves an artist to create? The answers to that question probably number beyond infinity. I wonder though if those answers can be divided into just two simple categories: outer and inner. Let's call it OUTspiration versus INspiration!

Many artists, including myself, find that external sources often lead to creative ideas. I am outspired by ancient walls that tell their stories through layers of multicolored and peeling paint. By the discovery of that perfectly and naturally rusted piece of metal waiting to found in the street.  By the majesty of mountain peaks, from which the sky seems to go on forever.  By the expression on the faces of weathered marble angels in old cemeteries. By the stains, spots, splatters, and specks seen on well worn pages in vintage books. And by so much more. Outspiration is everywhere.

But creative ideas also come from the inside. I am inspired by the sense of anticipation and excitement that comes from embarking on a new adventure. By the memories I carry that take me back to special moments in my life. By the variety of moods, pleasant and less so, that course through my soul throughout every day. By the feelings of both fear and possibility that come with stepping outside of my own comfort zone. By the secrets that I carry that need to stay secret but at the same time need be expressed. And by so much more. Inspiration is endless.

When outspiration and inspiration collide, the true magic happens. Think of it this way. Give five people the same ingredients and ask them to cook a dish. Each plate will look and taste differently. Give five people the same poem to read. Each person will remember different details and have individual interpretations. Have five people look at the clouds in the sky. They may all see distinct objects. And give five people the same art supplies. None of the artworks will be in the same. In all these cases, the different outcomes result from the uniqueness of each one of us.

When we as individuals allow our own personal and singular selves to guide our creative endeavors, we can start the journey of reaching our potential. When we trust the "in" of our inspirations, we can begin to let go and let the creativity flow. When we let our unique inner worlds guide the ideas that come from our outspirations, we can truly unleash the artist within.

 

So next time you enter the studio, ask yourself…what are my outspirations and what are my inspirations? And then…create!

 

Seth Apter is a mixed-media artist from New York City, focused primarily on paper arts, book arts, and textural assemblage.  Using layers of paper, paint, ink, text, transfers, found metal, and other altered objects, he creates highly textured and distressed artworks. 

His work has been highlighted on multiple websites and published in national magazines, independent zines, and three books to be released in 2010.  His blog, The Altered Page, is a visual journal of his own artwork, photography, and collaborations, as well as a showcase for artists he admires and his creative experiences in NYC.

Blog:  The Altered Page

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Comments

[LaWendula]

Lovely written, Seth! I mean that. And -you know me- I love word games, so outspiration is so great. Again it's what I told you before, there is something childlike, nearly simple in your words but also so much wisdom and -no exaggeration- soul! You should write a book. (Ah, maybe you are just at it- confess!!!)

[Evangeline]

I am definitely "outspired" by your words and images! Great post.

[lynn]

and I am inspired as always by your examples of your art here...wonderful words another wonderful site to revisit...thanks for bringing me here from altered page!
Congrats on all your works here and everywhere.

[Chris]

Seth, this was a pleasure to read. So well written--erudite, but with a direct connection to instinctual truth. You're so right about INspiration, and I've not heard it said before. Thank you for this.

[Annie Kerr]

Great post, Seth. Have enjoyed my visit and will be taking another look over here soon.

[Kim Palmer]

What a great start to your contributions here. Congratulations Seth. I enjoyed the article very much, and look forward to reading your future scribbles. :)

[mary helen fernandez stewart]

Thank you for sharing Seth's wonderful encouragement and support. I have this bookmarked now and will return . KC is another inspirational artist I have enjoyed learning about. Imagine and Live in Peace, Mary Helen Fernandez Stewart

[Judy Wilkenfeld]

Love the colliding moments when it all falls into place and one just "knows". Good article Seth.

[Lori Barker]

So glad I followed Seth's post on the Altered Page. I so believe in the colliding of outer and inner but would also add Through. Perhaps that is the 'knowing' or trusting, when you are not even aware until the artwork is finished that another force traveled through your hands and spirit.

[nancy neva]

you are the DREAMER of such wonderful ideas and compositions and collaborations...lucky folks who can 'tune in' here to read more of your fine articles...nice!

[Debrina or Debs]

I really enjoyed reading this Seth. I like your concept of in and out with regards our 'spirations...I wonder if "aspiration" fits into our creative drive too?

[Peggy O'Farrow]

This is the first time I see your work and I LOVE it! It easily became an outspiration for me and it collided with my inspiration because seeing it made me realize it makes me feel "at home"... and that it's OK for me to create the way I create and not the way outside influences think or dictate I should. Thank you xo

[karen cole]

Is there anything you can't do, Seth?

I am continually amazed.
Great article.

[Karin]

I don't think I've ever consciously thought about how the different creative influences enter me as in/outspirations, but you have really outlined the process eloquently Seth! I have enjoyed reading your examples and could relate to many. It's also nice to see your smiling face here :) Thanks for sharing your methodology with us, Karin

[Debbie Overton]

Thank you to each and everyone of you that took a few moments from your creative time to read Seth's wonderful article. Both Seth and I appreciate your visit and leaving a comment.

If you have had a colliding moment we would love for you to share it.

[Sheila of Halo Hill]

Great article, Seth!

[lyle]

seth, good article! the collision of in and out is an amazing thing! thanks for putting it in words! lyle