Life is like topography, Hobbes. There are summits of happiness and success, flat stretches of boring routine and valleys of frustration and failure.
Bill WattersonRead
People always make the mistake of thinking art is created for them. But really, art is a private language for sophisticates to congratulate themselves on their superiority to the rest of the world. As my artist’s statement explains, my work is utterly incomprehensible and is therefore full of deep significance.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Art is often misunderstood as being created for the audience, when in reality it serves as a personal expression for the artist.
This quote emphasizes the notion that art is not merely a product intended for public consumption; rather, it is a personal, private expression meant to communicate complex ideas and emotions understood primarily by the artist and a select audience. It highlights the disconnect between the artist's intentions and the audience's reception, suggesting that true artistry lies in its depth and the unique personal significance it holds, as opposed to its accessibility or popularity.
Themes
ArtExpressionInterpretationAudienceCreativity
In practice
Example use cases
During a gallery opening, you might use this quote to explain the nature of artistic expression.
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I am more a friend of art than a producer of painting.
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