I hope I have made it clear that the work is about perfection as we are aware of it in our minds but that the paintings are very far from being perfect - completely removed in fact - even as we ourselves are.
Agnes MartinRead
The value of art is in the observer.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Art derives its worth from the perspective of those who experience it.
Agnes Martin's quote emphasizes the subjective nature of art, suggesting that its true value lies in the interpretation and emotional response of the observer rather than in any intrinsic qualities. This perspective highlights the importance of personal experience and engagement in the appreciation of art, as it can evoke different feelings and meanings for different individuals.
Themes
ArtValueObserverSubjectiveInterpretation
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about modern art, one could use this quote to explain how different viewers experience the same piece uniquely.
More from Agnes Martin
All quotes βThe main thing in making art often is letting go of your expectation and your idea.
Agnes MartinRead
My paintings are not about what is seen. They are about what is known forever in the mind.
Agnes MartinRead
Art is the concrete representation of our most subtle feelings.
Agnes MartinRead
What we really want to do is serve happiness. We want everyone to be happy, never unhappy even for a moment. We want the animals to be happy. The happiness of every living thing is what we want.
Agnes MartinRead
Any material may be used but the theme is the same and the response is the same for all artwork... we all have the same concern, but the artist must know exactly what the experience is. He must pursue the truth relentlessly
Agnes MartinRead
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I'm definitely influenced by the music. We dance to music, and you have to listen to it and phrase your dancing and movement in a certain way to compliment the music. We have to work hand in hand, the dancer and the music.
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Art establishes the basic human truths which must serve as the touchstones of our judgement. The artist... faithful to his personal vision of reality, becomes the last champion of the individual mind and sensibility against an intrusive society and an offensive state.
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My philosophy is that I'm an artist. I perform an art not with a paint brush or a camera. I perform with bodily movement. Instead of exhibiting my art in a museum or a book or on canvas, I exhibit my art in front of the multitudes.
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