Once in a while, when one feels they are in a bit of a creative slump (I suppose “downturn” is the fashionable term for it nowadays), it helps to be reminded of some of the great artists whose work has inspired me in the past. I have recently become inspired (again) by Orson Welles.
I’ve had a few artistic heroes. In terms of a modern creators (particularly multidisciplinary ones who work in film, direction, and radio), Orson Welles looms largest in my mind.
I associate him most strongly with black and white film and with things like film noir, compelling photography, autobiographical themes, and moments of explosive energy. His life and personal drives were lived very much in the public eye, and his art seems deeply infused with his personality, ego, and psychology.
Today, I read a statement that described Orson Welles as a renaissance man of the 20th century:
Innovative film and theater director, radio producer, actor, writer, painter, narrator, and magician, Orson Welles (1915–1985) was the last true Renaissance man of the twentieth century. From such great radio works as “War of the Worlds” to his cinematic masterpieces Citizen Kane, The Magnificent Ambersons, Othello, Macbeth, Touch of Evil, and Chimes at Midnight, Welles was a master storyteller, as expansive as he was enigmatic.
I agree -he was a true renaissance man.
Here are a few links about Orson Welles that I’ve recently enjoyed:
Great Directors: Orson Welles:
http://www.sensesofcinema.com/2003/great-directors/welles/
Orson Welles – Genius Without Compromise:
http://www.squidoo.com/orson-welles-hollywood-genius-
Orson Welles (Wikipedia):
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orson_Welles
“Me and Orson Welles”:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Me_and_Orson_Welles
Good work! keep it flowing, Thank you very much.
Much appreciated for the information and share!
Nancy