What makes an amazing artist? (Pt 2)

Dancing is just a physical expression of who you
are and if you want to become a better dancer or a better thinker,
the rules are the same through every area of your life.

The ancients, while navigating the high seas used to look
to the stars for guidance and direction. They would use the
constellations to plot their course through the rough seas
and stormy weather. Even with clouds and pouring rain, hope
would return with the clear skies and with it clear direction,
renewed hope and safety. Likewise, the ancient Egyptians, who
influenced the world we live in beyond measure, were highly
proficient in computing the power of the planets, luminaries and
constellations and the interactions between them. As they looked
up, they believed, as did the Greeks and civilisations before them
that it was these heavenly bodies which had an effect upon the
destinies of nations as well as individuals. It was the stars they
looked up to and regarded as living things that influenced us.
Today, we still look up to the “stars” for guidance, fashion tips, and
inspiration. Pop stars, “Superstars” and so called “talented” people,
seemingly unreachable up on the Billboards and on television
out of our grasp. People placed in positions, adored and ready to
be knocked down or carted off to rehab. It’s amazing how much
power and influence the few wield over the masses. Pythagoras
himself, the first “Philosopher” considered “the stars to be “bodies”
that encased souls, minds and spirits. It is quite clear that today
as we look up to our own “pop idols”, the latest marketed talents
and stars we should ask ourselves, are they really worthy of being
emulated and adored? Should we not instead focus our energies
on expressing ourselves to the best of our own abilities? Surely
this is far healthier than trying to complete a near-impossible task
and mimic those who we place up on the mantle piece ready, at
any point to be knocked down, revealing themselves to be just as
infallible as the rest of us?

These are not only philosophical questions but are most relevant
for the artists, dancers, actors, musicians and entertainers among
us - the true artists that will at least strive to be the best that
they can be. The artists that dig deeper. Those who understand
it is harmony that is a prerequisite of beauty. That the beautiful
poem, dance, song, piece of music or expression is only so when
its parts are harmonious. The message is clear; you will have to
search for yourself, your self if you want to find that harmonious
combination that will raise YOU up to the next level as an artist
and a person. Search. You. For yourself.

By Anthony King

Pt 3 coming soon! (Part 1: click here)

Anthony’s new Dance/Personal development book “Dance like the stars - Book 1, The Philosophy of physical expression, the learning process & Celebrity fitness” is out now in Waterstones, Foyles and Pineapple Shop Covent Garden. Or available to order from your local book shop.

To buy it online today click here!