EXPLORING THE WORLD: HOW TRAVEL HAS INSPIRED MY ART

Autumn Flowers art print orange blue vintage by Jennifer Reid

Autumn Flowers Print by Jennifer Reid

Travel has been a constant source of inspiration for me as an artist. The exposure to different cultures, art and ways of life, has broadened my perspective and deepened my understanding of the human experience. My visits to renowned art museums and galleries around the world have been particularly impactful and I feel so grateful to have had the opportunities to have so many amazing experiences in my life so far…and here’s hoping there’s more to come!

From the Guggenheim to the MoMa

From the Guggenheim and MoMa in New York, to the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay in Paris, the Vatican Museum in Rome, the National Gallery in London, the Uffizi and Academia Galleries in Florence, the Smithsonian in Washington, the Kahlil Gibran Museum in Becharre Lebanon, MONA in Hobart, the National Gallery of Australia in Canberra, the Art Gallery of New South Wales and the Museum of Contemporary Art in Sydney, I have been fortunate enough to explore some of the most renowned art collections in the world.

Each of these experiences have been incredibly enriching and have helped me to develop a deeper understanding of art history, as well as the cultural and societal context in which the art was created. I have been particularly moved by the works of the Old Masters and the way in which they were able to capture the human experience with such grace and skill.

But it’s not just the grand masters and museums that have inspired me. I’ve also been deeply moved by the work of artists shown in small independent galleries I have stumbled upon in my travels.  Discovering the works of emerging artists reminded me of the vitality and diversity of the contemporary art world and the fact that there is room for everyone’s creativity.

These experiences have not only inspired me as an artist, but as a human being. They’ve reminded me of the power of art to evoke emotions, to convey complex ideas and to connect us to our shared humanity. They have also given me a deeper appreciation of the cultural richness and diversity of the world and a greater understanding of the ways in which art reflects and shapes the societies in which it is created.

Being exposed to different cultures and art through my travels has inspired my sense of adventure and discovery that comes with venturing into unfamiliar territory. Visiting new places and immersing myself in different cultures has opened my eyes to new perspectives and ways of thinking, which has in turn influenced my art.

Art in Context

There’s something wonderful about the opportunity to see art in the context in which it was created. Being able to stand in front of a painting or sculpture and imagine the artist at work, the political and social climate of the time and the audience for whom it was created, has given me a deeper understanding of the art and the artist’s intent.

Architecture & Design

I’ve also been inspired by the architecture and design of the museums and galleries I’ve visited. The way in which these buildings are designed to showcase art and create an atmosphere for viewing and experiencing art has been a source of inspiration for my own art, and my understanding of how to present and display my own work. But also, the buildings themselves are artistic masterpieces that are truly awe-inspiring.  Just check out the Guggenheim, the Bramante Staircase in the Vatican Museum, the Louvre as examples of how magnificent these architectural creations are.

As you can tell, travel and my visits to art museums and galleries around the world have been an invaluable source of inspiration for me as an artist. The exposure to different cultures, art and ways of life, the sense of adventure and discovery, and the opportunity to see art in the context in which it was created, have all helped me to develop my art and grow as a creative person. I would highly recommend to any aspiring artist to take the time to explore the world and see what inspiration it has to offer. It will not only help you to develop your art but also give you a better understanding of the world and yourself.

Oooh, I want to plan my next travel adventure now! How about you?

Jennifer xo

‘Never Stop Dreaming!’

autumn flowers art print orange blue vintage by Jennifer Reid

My ‘Autumn Flowers’ art print (left), inspired by ‘Vase of Flowers’ by Pablo Picasso (1905, ink on paper, exhibited at the Guggenheim)