I think my stance and my way of life is my most important art.
I am very much interested in the so-called useless object. I mean, it takes perfect craftsmanship, beautiful material carefully measured and crafted, but at the same time it’s really useless.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote highlights the beauty and significance of craftsmanship in art, even when the objects produced may lack practical utility.
Ai Weiwei's quote reflects a profound appreciation for the aesthetic qualities and the creative process involved in art, even when the resulting objects are deemed 'useless.' It suggests that the value of art lies not solely in its functionality, but in the beauty, effort, and intention behind its creation. This perspective invites us to rethink the purpose of art and appreciate its intrinsic qualities, encouraging a deeper engagement with creative expressions that challenge conventional notions of usefulness.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
In an art exhibition focused on abstract sculptures, this quote could be used to introduce a piece that challenges viewers' perceptions of utility.
More from Ai Weiwei
All quotes →Self-censorship is insulting to the self. Timidity is a hopeless way forward.
If there is no free speech, every single life has lived in vain
Art is always about overcoming obstacles between the inner condition and the skill for expression.
As a human being, member of society, you must clearly state your mind. It's a responsibility. It is the way you identify yourself otherwise you don't know who you are and why you are here.
The American experience influenced my understanding of individuality, basic human rights, freedom of expression and the rights and responsibilities of citizens.
Similar quotes
I always joked with my parents. I told them, 'If I don't make it as an actor, my fallback is musician.'
Pop culture was in art _x000D_ Now, art's in pop culture in me
Casting sometimes is fate and destiny more than skill and talent, from a director's point of view.
The creator of the new composition in the arts is an outlaw until he is a classic.
A short story is the ultimate close-up magic trick -- a couple of thousand words to take you around the universe or break your heart.
I never allowed myself the luxury of those brilliant, beautiful colors until I went to India and saw people walking around in them or dragging them in the mud. I realised they were not so artificial.