Final answer:
Myths are sacred traditional tales; legends are essentially historical truths about heroes; visual metaphors are art techniques representing one concept with another visual image, and beliefs are deeply held convictions. Each holds a unique place as a form of artistic inspiration.
Step-by-step explanation:
The differences between myths, legends, visual metaphors, and beliefs lie in their origins, purpose, and ways they inspire art. A myth is a traditional tale considered sacred by some and is used to explain events related to gods and the cosmos. For example, Greek mythology has inspired numerous works, such as Botticelli's 'The Birth of Venus'.
A legend is often based on historical truths and is about heroes and their deeds; King Arthur's legends have inspired movies and literature. A visual metaphor is an artistic technique where one concept is represented by another visual image, like Dove's 'Real Beauty' campaign.
Lastly, a belief is a deeply held conviction that has sparked artworks like Hokusai's 'The Great Wave off Kanagawa', rooted in Japan's Shinto belief of reverence for nature.
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