BLACK: a moment of inspiration for creatives

By Dan F Stapleton

Find your own moment of inspiration

Black is understandably prized by artists; it’s a colour that hints at limitless possibilities. Journey to the south of Australia and gaze up at a dark night sky illuminated with beams of colourful light to see why. It’s a sight that reminds us of the vast, limitless universe beyond where we stand. From witnessing nature's mysterious light show to submerging yourself in a subversive urban artwork, which of the following activities will you lose yourself in to find your moment of inspiration?

Immerse yourself in a world of sophisticated art

Steeped in mystery and history, Australia’s galleries hold Western works from centuries past, as well as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art inspired by a culture that stretches back many thousands of years. In the hushed hallways of the National Gallery in Canberra, dive deep into the intense black rectangles of a Mark Rothko masterwork. Or lose yourself in Bush Plum, a richly textured black-and-white dot painting by esteemed Aboriginal artist Angelina Pwerle. 

Witness nature's mysterious light show 

Perhaps the most mysterious of Australia’s natural phenomena is the Southern Lights (Aurora Australis). Like its Northern Hemisphere cousin, this celestial ballet has to be witnessed to be believed. Hundreds of miles from anywhere and nestled in the mountains of Tasmania, there’s no man-made light; instead, if you're lucky, you'll lift your eyes to a cosmic rainbow of light painting the dark night sky with flickering shades of colour. Let your mind wander as Mother Nature’s extraordinary dance plays out before you. Be warned: such an experience may inspire intense creative thought.

Experience the creativity of Australia’s nightlife

It’s not just remote night skies that embody black’s mystery and inspire creativity. As night falls, you’ll see its influence in Australia’s capital cities too. Descend underground to discover experimental restaurants, prohibition-style bars and seductive wine lounges, where menus burst with creativity and inventiveness. Or head above ground, where open-air rooftop bars stud the twinkling night skyline and exude black’s elegance. Australia’s after-dark scene is inspired by the boundless creativity of black, and much like the colour, what you make of it is entirely up to you.