Joni Mitchell’s “Judgement of the Moon and Stars (Ludwig’s Tune), written about Ludwig Beethoven, captures the turbulent mind of a musical genius grappling with the devastating onset of deafness. One can imagine no greater insult to an artist’s creativity and craftsmanship than the loss of the very sense that makes it possible.

This piece inspired by the song and influence by my own internal struggles as an artist was intended to reflect on the imaginative mind full of chaos, uncertainty and (hopefully) creative breakthrough.

Deep blues and teals dominate the perimeter, representing the lonely cosmic “judgement” and the isolation and insecurity that stems from creating. Fiery orange and amber dot the landscape as a reminder of an inner spark we all carry - the “forest fire” of passion that refuses to be snuffed out.

“You've got to shake your fists at lightning now
You've got to roar like forest fire
You've got to spread your light like blazes
All across the sky
They're going to aim the hoses on you
Show 'em you won't expire
Not till you burn up every passion
Not even when you die”

Ultimately, a reminder that beauty and creativity do not need to wait for ideal conditions to be put forth into the world.