MUSE
Firstly, what is a muse? Is a muse simply the source of an artist or creator’s inspiration or, is it much more complex? Over time, the term ‘muse’ has become a bit contentious for some. Often portrayed as female, ‘The perception of the muse is that of a passive, powerless model, at the mercy of an older artist.’ But is this really the case, or should we be rethinking this outdated and simplified idea around the subjects that have inspired some of the world’s great art?
Well, that’s exactly what influential art historian, critic and author, Ruth Millington explores and challenges in her book ‘MUSE: Uncovering the hidden figures behind art history's masterpieces.’ A very complex topic expertly interpreted by Ruth and set alongside beautiful illustrations by incredibly talented Lisbon-based artist, Dina Razin. This is a book I would highly recommend for your creative bookshelf.
THE HISTORY OF THE MUSE.
But where does it all start? To help us understand the subject of the muse and the artist a little better, we need a brief history lesson. Luckily, Ruth is an art historian so she has that well and truly covered. Ruth skilfully outlines a brief history of the muse within the introduction of the book. Its origins in Ancient Greek mythology with the 9 muse goddesses of the arts: music, dance, song, poetry and memory. All of who were worshipped and paid homage to. And how over time, and through various art history genres, there has been a significant shift in the ideas and perceptions of the muse, often in a negative way, from goddess to the passive and powerless model that is in desperate need to be readdressed and challenged.
CHALLENGING TRADITIONAL NOTIONS OF THE MUSE.
Ruth challenges the traditional notions of the muse by illuminating and telling their stories. The muses of some of the world’s most famous artists throughout history including Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dali, Marina Abramović, Francis Bacon and Frida Kahlo are all explored, but also some lesser-known artists as well. All helping to break down the concept of the stereotypical artist-muse relationship. Exposing the myth of the silent and submissive muse and showing the crucial, influential and very active roles that they’ve played in art history.
Breaking the muses down into sections, Ruth shows us the range and diversity between them all. A mix of not only female muses but also male. They range from fellow artists, family, lovers and even in some cases the self as a muse. Showing the true complexities of each relationship with the artist they inspired and in some cases made famous.
Having dispelled the myth of the muse, Ruth even gives us a ‘Muse Manifesto’ to stop these misconceptions moving forward. Advocating for muses to be ‘treated with fairness and respect and to be celebrated and recognised for the value that they bring.’ Sounds fair to me, and something I will pay close attention to if I ever find myself in the fortunate position of having a muse in my life.
NOT ANOTHER BOOK REVIEW!
I’ve tried my very best to not allow this blog to become some sort of book review or a complete breakdown of each chapter and muse! That’s already been done by people far more intelligent than me. And, if I did that, then why would you buy the book? And yes, I do want you to buy it and read it!
Why so pushy I hear you ask? Well, I’m going to be honest, not only is this book brilliant, interesting, thought-provoking and beautifully illustrated, I'm a little biased because Ruth is actually a dear friend of mine. So, of course, I’m going to shout about it as much as possible. As fellow creatives, we have to stick together!
I’ve watched how hard Ruth has worked on the book, alongside Dina and amazing editor, Mireille Harper, from the publishing team at Square Peg. Not only to produce the book but also to promote it, which is no easy feat by any means in the competitive literary market. Book launches in both the UK and USA, literary festivals galore, speaking panels and now even a MUSE exhibition. Ruth has worked, and is still working, exceptionally hard and is so passionate about the book. It's incredibly inspiring to see.
The exhibition will be held at Winterborne House and Gardens, Birmingham. Opening 24th September 2022 and running until 10th February 2023. The exhibition will showcase many of Dina Razins illustrations from the book and, if you can, I suggest you check it out at the link below:
I’ve always said that I want Creative Nowhere Land to be a place where I can share not only my work but the work of fellow creatives and people who inspire me. I’ve talked about other books on the blog but this is the first time that I’ve known the author personally. This makes it even more important to me that you show your support, not only to Ruth but also to Dina, the creator of all of these beautiful illustrations I’ve shared. As creatives, I believe we have to stick together and shout each other out as much as possible. So, I’ve included lots of links for you to find both of these talented creatives so you can show them as much support as you show me. Their social media links and websites are listed below as well. So, what are you waiting for? Click the links. Buy the book, give Ruth and Dina a ‘follow’ and get yourself along to the exhibition if you can!
LINKS:
INSTAGRAM - @millington_ruth
INSTAGRAM - @_dinarazin_
BUY THE BOOK HERE!
MUSE: Uncovering the hidden figures behind art history's masterpieces.
SIGNING OFF!
Thank you, as always, for your support with Creative Nowhere Land. I hope this is the first of many more blogs and projects, that I can use to promote the amazingly talented and inspiring people around me more. It can be a lonely place sometimes being a creator so the more people I can bring on the Creative Nowhere Land journey the better. Until next time you lovely people…