Prejudices are what fools use for reason.
VoltaireRead
The little may contrast with the great, in painting, but cannot be said to be contrary to it. Oppositions of colors contrast; but there are also colors contrary to each other, that is, which produce an ill effect because they shock the eye when brought very near it.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the relationship between contrasting elements in art and their coexistence without contradiction.
Voltaire reflects on the idea that while small and large elements in a painting may contrast, they do not necessarily oppose one another. He distinguishes between mere color contrasts, which can enhance a piece of art, and colors that are truly contrary, which disrupt the visual harmony. This notion can be metaphorically extended to various aspects of life, where differences can coexist and even enrich experiences.
Themes
ContrastColorsArtHarmonyOpposition
In practice
Example use cases
Using this quote to illustrate the importance of contrasts in a school art presentation.
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