Daily Inspiration: ‘The Gap’ by Ira Glass Gets a Visual Remake

Back in 2009, Ira Glass, host of NPR’s “This American Life” spoke about the idea that when creative people start out, they have terrific taste in art, but lack the skill to create worthwhile work. But, he explains, the ability to stick with it, and to learn, eventually closes “the gap” between taste and ability.

Now, artist Daniel Sax turned Glass’s words into the moving visual piece above. On his Vimeo page, he says:

“I think it was at springtime 2012, when I came across David Shiyang Lius lovely piece of work about Ira Glass. It was the most inspiring and motivating video, I have ever seen in my life. I watched it over and over again, listened to Ira Glass’ voice and told myself, that I am not the only person who is constantly disappointed about the gap between ones taste and ones skills. Later on in 2012 I decided to do an own filmed version of Iras interview – use my own language to tell his message. It took me about a year from concept to upload.

I made it for myself and for anybody who is in doubt with his creative career. I also think that Ira Glass’ message isn’t only limited to the creative industry. It can be applied to everyone who starts out in a new environment and is willing to improve.”

I’m happy to see these wise words are picked up and going viral once again, because the advice here is important for anyone who wants to start (or continue) a life in the arts.