Feed the body food and drink, it will survive today. Feed the soul art and music, it will live forever.
Dame Julie Andrews
When listening to a piece of music or studying a painting, this can result in a special connection that one can experience with the artist. We will see or hear something, and intuitively know this person- whomever the composer or the artist of the work may be – experienced it as well. Eight Paintings for Piano explores this connection through music and art.
In the second part of our blog series Eight Paintings for Piano, we explore more of Jim Klein’s abstract artwork paired and partnered with Ian Jamison to compose a body of original compositions.
In this installment, we’ll uncover the inspirations behind four paintings: Big, Palomino, Three Words, and Fugal. Join us on this journey where art and music intertwine, creating a dialogue that speaks volumes. You can listen to the entire album on the J Klein Gallery Youtube playlist or on Spotify!
BIG
With Big, Jim challenges us to consider the essence of the work. It’s not just about a theoretical size; Big is a complex interplay of subjectivity, where individual interpretation matters more than a concrete definition.
Is there a story behind Big?
Jim: Well, what does “big” mean to you? The experience of something being big, what does that mean?
Big is subjective; what is big to one person won’t seem as big to another. What is big to myself isn’t big to the observer and vice versa.
I’m trying to explain an adjective and a feeling that can’t be defined. That’s abstract. What do you see?
PALOMINO
A Palomino is a genetic color in horses where the body of the horse is a golden color with a white mane and tail. The most famous of which is likely Roy Rogers’ brave palomino steed Trigger.
But of course Palomino isn’t just about a horse; Jim encourages us to connect with the deeper meaning hidden within the art.
Where did the name Palomino come from?
Jim: Another true abstract piece. Palomino has a deeper meaning than just a horse…You have to look deep into the piece, use your imagination with what this really means. Go deep into the painting and see if you can connect.
What I know personally about it is a total surprise and a most enjoyable experience.
Palomino is symbolic of an experience in my life. I will remember forever what this means. There’s mystery, imagination, and extreme joy to it.
Many of these Eight Paintings art has inspiration or memories that are brought to surface when creating these pieces that are very personal. There are points in our life where we absolutely do not expect and it becomes part of us.
So I know what Palomino is inspired by, but I always enjoy and appreciate when others share their interpretation of what the art means to them.
What pulled you to palominos specifically?
Jim: My first introduction to Trigger and palomino horses was as a kid watching Roy Rogers. I’ve always been intrigued with Trigger. Always wanted a palomino after seeing him.
FUGAL
Fugal stands apart visually and musically. This piece is directly inspired by the musical form known as a fugue, a musical composition in which one or two themes are repeated or imitated by successively entering voices and developed in a continuous interweaving of the voice parts. The independent lines and contours of the polyphonic music are here rendered on the canvas.
Fugal feels different than the other three in this part of the series, why do you think that is?
Jim: Fugal is different, although it’s difficult to explain why. It may be because the art was led by the music- the painting and the music are truly hand in hand here.
THREE WORDS
What are the three words within Three Words?
Jim: The three words that were spoken to me are very sacred and I have not (and will not) share them with anyone. I will take those words with me to my grave.
My three words will always be a mystery, but if you can find it in the painting don’t tell anyone. See if you can find three sacred words for yourself.
It’s amazing how simple words can change your life.
Listen to the entire Eight Paintings for Piano album on the official JKlein Gallery Youtube channel or on Spotify! You can support the artists by purchasing the album on Amazon Music.
Did you miss Part 1?
Catch up on the last blog for Eight Paintings for Piano and learn the inspiration behind Jim’s paintings Lucky Seven, Two Little Boys Lost in the Woods, Under the Yellow Umbrella, and King Edward’s Debacle.
Click here to read Eight Paintings for Piano, Part 1 | Behind the Canvas with Jim Klein.