The Role of Music in My Creative Process: Painting to a Soundtrack
Music has always been more than just a background element in my life—it’s been the heartbeat of my creative journey. From the rhythmic sounds of my father’s congas and bongos during my childhood to the carefully curated playlists that fill my studio today, music is an essential part of how I create. It sets the tone, inspires my ideas, and guides my hand as I paint. In many ways, my art is a visual reflection of the music I listen to—a translation of sound into form, color, and texture.
The Soundtrack of My Childhood
Growing up, music was a constant presence in our home. My father’s love for music, especially his passion for playing the congas and bongos, deeply influenced my relationship with sound. Family gatherings were often accompanied by the soulful strumming of ukuleles, creating a rich tapestry of melodies that became the soundtrack of my early years. These experiences were more than just fleeting moments—they shaped my understanding of rhythm, flow, and the emotional power of music.
Even now, as I paint, I can feel the influence of those early musical experiences. The rhythms I grew up with find their way into my brushstrokes, creating a sense of movement and energy in my work. The melodies I listened to as a child continue to inspire the forms and compositions I create, connecting my past with my present in a seamless dance of creativity.
Setting the Mood in the Studio
Every painting session in my studio begins with the right playlist. Music sets the mood, guiding my emotions and focus as I work. Whether I’m exploring deep, introspective themes or capturing the joy and spontaneity of life, the music I choose helps me tap into the right mindset.
My “Play & Paint” playlist is a collection of songs that resonate with me on a deep level. Artists like FKJ, Drama, Masego, Jungle, and Mac Miller fill my studio with sounds that are both soothing and invigorating, helping me find the flow I need to create. Each track on this playlist has a unique energy, and depending on the piece I’m working on, I’ll choose music that aligns with the mood I want to convey.
For example, when I’m working on pieces that explore themes of identity and resilience, I might listen to something more introspective and soulful. The slow, deliberate beats help me focus on the details, allowing me to delve deeper into the emotions I want to express. On the other hand, when I’m creating something more playful and dynamic, I’ll choose tracks with upbeat rhythms that encourage spontaneity and boldness in my work.
Translating Music into Visual Art
For me, the connection between music and art goes beyond setting the mood—it’s about translating sound into visual form. Each painting is like a snapshot of the music that inspired it, capturing the rhythm, melody, and emotion of the tracks I’m listening to.
When I paint, I’m not just thinking about color and composition; I’m thinking about how the music makes me feel and how I can translate those feelings onto the canvas. The rhythm of a song might influence the way I apply my brushstrokes, creating a sense of movement and flow in the piece. A particular melody might inspire a specific color palette, with soft harmonies translating into muted tones and vibrant crescendos reflected in bold splashes of color.
One of the things I love most about this process is its unpredictability. Just as music can evoke different emotions each time you listen to it, my paintings can take on new meanings and interpretations depending on the viewer’s perspective. This interplay between music and art creates a multi-sensory experience, inviting viewers to not just see my work, but to feel and hear the inspiration behind it.
The Power of Music in Creativity
Music has the power to transform the creative process, turning a blank canvas into a vibrant expression of emotion and energy. It provides a rhythm to work by, a soundtrack that keeps me connected to the flow of creation. More than that, it helps me tap into parts of myself that I might not otherwise access, allowing me to explore new ideas and push the boundaries of my art.
For anyone looking to deepen their creative practice, I encourage you to explore the role of music in your work. Whether you’re a painter, writer, or designer, finding the right soundtrack can unlock new levels of inspiration and creativity. Let the music guide you, and see where it takes you—sometimes, the best art comes from following the rhythm of your heart.
