The power of both myth and art is this magical ability to open doors, to make connections - not only between us and the natural world, but between us and the rest of humanity. Myths show us what we have in common with every other human being, no matter what culture we come from, no matter what century we live in. . .and at the same time, mythic stories and art celebrate our essential differences.
Interpretation
Myth and art connect humanity by highlighting both our shared experiences and our unique differences.
Alan Lee's quote suggests that myths and art hold a unique power to bridge gaps between individuals and cultures. They facilitate understanding and connection among people, illustrating the universal experiences of humanity while also celebrating the diverse qualities that make each culture distinct. This duality enriches our connections to both the natural world and each other, fostering a deeper appreciation of our shared existence.
In practice
This quote can inspire a speech at an art exhibition focusing on cultural diversity.
To draw a tree, to pay such close attention to every aspect of a tree, is an act of reverence not only toward the tree, and toward the earth itself, but also our human connection to it. This is one of the magical things about drawing - it gives us almost visionary moments of connectedness.
When I talk to some of the younger filmmakers, they are so worried about their films that, eventually, this state of being worried reflects itself in and helps the final work. Whereas, with projects that are meticulously planned, you look at the end result and it is full of emptiness.
France is not poetic; she even feels, in fact, a congenital horror of poetry. Among the writers who use verse, those whom she will always prefer are the most prosaic.
Art is not a study of positive reality, it is the seeking for ideal truth.
Real music is always revolutionary, for it cements the ranks of the people; it arouses them and leads them onward.
Originality is the only thing that counts. But the originator uses material and ideas that occur round him and pass through him. And out of his experience comes the original creation.
Art is what you can get away with.
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