Our Inner Artist and the Louvre
I.M. Pei's Pyramid at the Louvre
In 1198, King Philippe Auguste began construction of the Louvre as a fortress to protect the city of Paris. Over the next 800 years, the fortress evolved into a Royal Palace of Napoleon, and in 1793 became the Louvre Museum.
The half-mile long building has seen it all. It protected the city through the 100-year War of the Middle Ages. It protected and hid priceless artworks from Hitler’s invading army during World War II.
It is the world’s most visited museum with a 400,000 piece collection which includes Egyptian, Greek and Roman Antiquities, Sculptures, Paintings and Drawings. Over 35,000 works are on display everyday such as the well known masterpieces, Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo.
In 1988, famed artist I.M. Pei was commissioned to add a piece to the collection, the controversial “La Pyramide Inversee” resulted. The Louvre is a landmark and significant part of the culture in Paris.
The unique combination of historical masterworks and modern collections is unlike any other. The vast scope of the museum is inspiring. From Classical to Impressionism to Modern Sculpture, the artistic spirit is felt when you walk in the front door.
I believe that every person has an artistic spirit. We each see colors in our own way. This is evident at a paint store which has 30 different colors of “white”. I have to wonder then, why is it that we ignore our inner voice instead of pursuing our artistic dreams?
The great artist, Vincent Van Gogh once said “If you hear a voice within you say “you cannot paint,” then by all means paint, and that voice will be silenced.”
Critics did not consider Van Gogh a “worthy artist” and he sold only 1 painting during his lifetime. While that rejection probably contributed to his depression and suicide, it did not stop him from painting. He painted over 800 paintings during the last 5 years of his life.
It seems odd that the number 800 applies to both the Louvre and Van Gogh. Great artworks stand the test of time, as is proven in the building. As an artist, there is an intense need to express what you are feeling and paint daily.
Can you imagine having that strong inner voice that needs to be creative?
Today’s Living Global idea is to be artistic. Go to the paint store and buy something colorful. Visit a craft store and decide to start a new hobby. Join a pottery class at a local studio.
Let’s go and enjoy our artistic spirit – Joy
