To Bloom

To Bloom is a multimedia project consisting of artwork and a musical track. It was made during a snowstorm in February. I was in a mindset focused on growth and thriving within my being. Throughout the snow I saw I was painting something representing spring. Spring is symbolic of new beginnings and growth, so I used that to encourage my work.

In the visual I include a lush green background as it layers. In the center of it lies a bright gold seed. Patterned along the shell of the seed is the yin-yang symbolizing balance. From that grows a violet flower with a glowing blue center. The flower is of no specific origin or reference. I do pay reference to purple being a color of royalty and spirituality, but nothing more than to add icing to the meaning.

I've been interested in incorporating music into my art for a long time, so this was my first attempt at making something original. I used a specific preset for an adjustable keyboard instrument. I chose an old-sounding synth and improvised over specific keys in a solo performance. As I played, I adjusted the instrument so different, more complex sounds are heard as it progresses. I aimed to create something euphoric or phenomenal. I researched chord progressions in an attempt to make sense of improvisation as I am still learning music. I used a model to aid me through the playing.

Bmaj9 (B D# F# A C#)/ foundation, bright yet introspective
Gmaj9 (G B D F# A) / floating, dreaming
Em7 (E G B D) / gentle tension
C#m7 (C# E G# B) /questioning, yearning
Bmaj9 (B D# F# A C#) / return home

This was something I greatly enjoyed putting together. I spent hours in front of my iPad and keyboard to make sure this turned out exactly how I wanted. It was all done in one take as I just sat and improvised over the various chords of the B major key. I can't wait to make more project like this or similar to such.