Where will you find your next artistic inspiration? Don’t let it slip away, it may be right in front of you. Finding inspiration isn’t always easy. I have been inspired by nature, literature, television, and my own imagination. However, there are times when our creative bank comes up a little short, and finding inspiration for the next work of art can be a challenge. What can we do? Sometimes, painting a simple still life can get the energy flowing again. But, if that doesn’t do it, a plein-air painting of an outdoor scene might generate a creative spark. Even sketching your thoughts in a drawing pad can ignite your creative spirit and become the catalyst for new and exciting works. On September 11, 2011, I was watching the 9/11 memorial services on television. During the memorial service in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, President George W. Bush gave a speech about that tragic day. During his speech, I was drawn to a sea of yellow flowers that stood behind him in the distance that seemed to echo the spirit of that moment. As I sat and listened to the President’s speech, I was drawn to the field behind him; The flowers and grass blowing in the breeze; The flowers waving and clapping their hands like they were singing a song. That moment was my inspiration. I became so captivated by it that several days later, I stretched a 36″ x 48″ canvas, took out my acrylic paints, and painted a field of yellow flowers from memory. I entitled the painting “The Heroes Field.” For me that field became the voice of those who lost their lives there. That field was my spark. Now, every time I look at this painting, I remember everyone from that flight, their sacrifice, our country, and the inspiration of that moment.