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You must be absolutely honest and true in the depicting of a totem for meaning is attached to every line. You must be most particular about detail and proportion.
Emily Carr
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote emphasizes the importance of authenticity and attention to detail in art, particularly when creating meaningful representations.

Emily Carr highlights the necessity for artists to be genuine and precise in their work, especially when depicting symbols, like totems, that carry deep meaning. She suggests that every aspect of the creation process—down to the lines—holds significance, and thus, the artist must commit to honesty and meticulousness to honor the essence of the subject.

Themes

HonestyArtDetailTotemMeaning

In practice

Example use cases

Sharing this quote during an art workshop to inspire participants to focus on authenticity in their creations.

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The men resent a woman getting any honour in what they consider is essentially their field. Men painters mostly despise women painters. So I have decided to stop squirming, to throw any honour in with Canada and women.
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Quote by Emily Carr | QuoteProject