[FORUM] What artists have influenced you?

[rfmcdonald]

When I went for a walk last night, elated that I'd finally managed to make that Nan Goldin post, I realized that her photographic skills, her ability to take a moment and freeze it with all of its emotional import intact, was something that inspired me. Admittedly it was a relatively minor influence on me--my predilections attracted my to her work much more than her work inspired me--but I'm certain that second influence was present. If only I could write as beautifully as she photographs. (Give me time.)

So, my question to all of you this Saturday: What artist or artists have inspired you?