When you stop doing something, it doesn't mean you are rejecting the previous work. That's the mistake; it's not rejecting it, it's saying, 'I have exploited it enough now and I wish to take a look at another corner.'
David HockneyRead
It sometimes takes a foreigner to come and see a place and paint it. I remember someone saying they had never really noticed the palm trees here until I painted them.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Outsiders can provide fresh perspectives on familiar surroundings, highlighting beauty that locals may overlook.
David Hockney's quote reflects the idea that sometimes those who are not immersed in an environment can see its beauty more clearly. A foreigner's fresh perspective can reveal details and aspects of a place that the locals may take for granted, like how he brought attention to the palm trees through his artistic interpretation. This suggests that art has the power to change our perception and appreciation of the world around us.
Themes
ArtPerspectiveBeautyOutsiderCreativity
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about the importance of diverse viewpoints in creative fields, one might use this quote to emphasize how fresh perspectives can enhance appreciation for the familiar.
More from David Hockney
All quotes →I'm interested in all kinds of pictures, however they are made, with cameras, with paint brushes, with computers, with anything.
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I've always wanted to be able to paint the dawn.
David HockneyRead
My only worry is the painting I'm doing. Nothing else.
David HockneyRead
In fact, most artists want to make things a bit more difficult for themselves as they go along, to challenge themselves.
David HockneyRead
I can get excitement watching rain on a puddle. And then I paint it. Now, I admit, there are not too many people who would find that exciting. But I would. And I want life thrilling and rich. And it is. I make sure it is.
David HockneyRead
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