1.a. transitive. To light up, illuminate...
1.b. To give sight to.
2. figurative. To enlighten...to throw light upon...
3. To light, kindle (a fire).
4. To illuminate, adorn (manuscripts) with coloured designs or miniatures...*
The definition of "illumination" has always been tied with the adorning of medieval manuscripts. Since our first recorded references of this word, the definitions of "lighting", "enlightening" and artistic adornment have coexisted.
This fact itself is illuminating because it shines a light upon the role of these artists who adorned the texts of scripture so long ago. It also shines a light upon the role of artists today.
The act of adorning is not one of frivolity but of necessity to understanding and conveying information. It is not merely cosmetic or superfluous to the text; it is vital. Illumination--with light in a room or with paint on vellum--directs the attention to the text. It raises up and enhances the message that one tries to convey.
With Perplexing Bestiary Accompaniment and Composition, Daniel Vilaire has sought that end: the illumination of texts. The purpose of art is to raise up and to point us to these truths that are beyond ourselves. Whether in the scoring of a theatrical production, or winds performance for a ballet company, Daniel Vilaire has always sought the illumination of art.
* "Enlumine, V." Oxford English Dictionary, Oxford UP, July 2023, https://doi.org/10.1093/OED/1724617188.
SCTreehouse
Composer
Perplexing Bestiary Accompaniment
Freelance Wind Performer
B.A. Music: Maryville College
