It may be somewhat unknown to some, but I love sci-fi/fantasy artwork. There’s no shortage of talent in the world and thanks to the internet, unknown artists get to share their work with the world. Probably more known is that I love music, especially when I’m working. I’ve run across two YouTube channels that typically play my style of “work music”, Pandora Journey and Epic Music World. This music is typically airy with a hint of Celtic or Viking beats; just my kind of sound. In fact, while I’m writing this I’m listening to Epic Space Music Mix.

Back to the artwork. One thing I like about the aforementioned music channels is that they take artwork from various sources and animate it and set to music. Permission is obtained from both artist and composer. Some of the images that come up create a story in my mind. I share the idea with my children and get their feedback and they, of course, have their own suggestions. Sometimes the idea is just a quick blurb while other images may stir an entire novella. Take the above for example …

The story

Set in the far future where mankind has spread across the stars, we find a planet where old grudges have flared into open war. A picturesque plant scarred by years of conflict. Finally, a peacemaker comes. Through dialogue, understanding, and a single act of kindness; peace is secured. The peacemaker is installed as king. He rules fairly and is loved by the world. After such a long war how was it that the two sides came together?

Leaked footage of his young daughter playing with children from the two opposing delegations warmed the people’s heart. It was the future princess that refused to respond in hate that really started the peace process. She became an instant celebrity.

Ten years have passed. Now 18, the beloved princess is beset by an incurable disease. Wracked with grief, her father & mother discover the only way to slow the disease’s course is in a low gravity environment with a unique mix of atmosphere. The people rally and quickly build an orbital station for their princess. Now, each year on the anniversary of her arrival, cities on the largest continent coordinate blackouts to create a symbol of peace. In this small gesture, the people feel close to their princess, and the princess feels close to her people.

Or not

Or something like that …

How does the story end? I don’t know. The original artwork was for a holiday card and designed by Nate Hallinan and called ‘Distance’. You can find more of his work in his gallery at ArtStation. How about you? Do you see stories or conversations in art? Do you wonder what Mona Lisa is smiling about or what the temperature was in Dali’ The Persistence of Memory?