Share Art, Make Art, Support Art

"Make art, make art," Glen Hansard said at the end of his Oscar acceptance speech for Falling Slowly with fellow Once costar Markéta Irglová in 2008 (watch it here). I recalled these words when reading this inspiring post on a poetry reading on Consciously Frugal.

"Share art, share art," I thought as I read it. Art begets more art, wisdom begets wisdom, hope begets hope.

Ms. Irglová said,

"This is such a big deal, not only for us, but for all other independent musicians and artists that spend most of their time struggling, and this, the fact that we're standing here tonight, the fact that we're able to hold this, it's just the proof that no matter how far out your dreams are, it's possible. And, you know, fair play to those who dare to dream and don't give up. And this song was written from a perspective of hope, and hope at the end of the day connects us all, no matter how different we are."

A keeper for the favorite four-letter words list: Hope.

"Share Art" will be a new feature on my blog, and I hope to share various art forms - the written word, sonic, dramatic, visual - whatever is inspiring and provoking thought. This won't be on any designated day. Please feel free to leave in the comments section any art form that is inspiring you, or art that you are creating (by pen, keyboard, paintbrush, craft table, on stage, and such).

Share the wealth of knowledge, and consider what is "wealth." Remember if you have life's basics (food and water, shelter, clothing) and you can read (think how many cannot), have a library card, a book, a newspaper, music making your soul soar to new heights at the ready - you are a rich soul indeed. If you are in good health - you're a millionaire in a whole other sense.

As I listened to the songs of protest on the Woodstock soundtrack, I thought how we need to write our own words documenting the times and stand not just as witnesses but as active participants. If you want a better culture (I do), create and support one. In our world of fleeting communications (e-mails, texts, and such easily gone), let's lay our words down for the times. No matter how small you think your voice is - keep using it for good. Share art, make art, support art.

I leave you with the fitting words from This Low by Hansard's and Irglová's band, The Swell Season:

Thread the light,
shine the light,
don't hide the light
live the light,
and give the light,
seek the light,
crave the light, and brave the light,
stare the light,
and share the light,
show the light,
and know the light,
raise the light,
and praise the light,
thread the light,
and spread the light.