I didn't follow the standard rules of bass playing, and many musicians on many different instruments who became noteworthy for their unique or particular style did a very similar thing.
I think the future looks great for music, musicians, bass players, and all we love about music.
I listened to many different types of instruments and music, and have always tried to look at the bass as an instrument as opposed to only a bass.
It's not art, it's science.
As far as current inspiration, I'm listenting to a lot of flamenco, because the techniques used for flamenco can be adapted to playing bass.