Art Quotes and Sayings

Did you knw that art is a reflection of the human soul, an expression that transcends words and connects us to deeper truths about our existence? Artists' quotes, whether living or deceased, provide us with a glimpse into their minds, struggles, and triumphs. These words carry the weight of their experiences, the passion for their craft, and the beauty they saw in the world around them.

"Support Living Artists; the dead ones don't need it."

This quote resonates deeply with me because it underscores the crucial role we play in valuing and supporting artists during their lifetimes. Far too often, we only recognise the genius of artists posthumously when their work can no longer directly impact their lives.

Imagine if we had been able to support Vincent van Gogh during his lifetime. How many more masterpieces would we have, and what more could he have achieved with the support and recognition he deserved? It's our responsibility to ensure that living artists are not overlooked, but celebrated and supported for their invaluable contributions to our society.

Art is not just about creation; it's a collaborative process between the artist and the audience. By investing in living artists, we not only encourage their growth but also become part of their journey. We ensure that our cultural heritage continues to evolve and flourish, and we give artists the means to continue their work, explore new ideas, and enrich our lives with their unique perspectives.

Here are some quotes that capture the essence of art and the artist's journey:

"Art is not what you see, but what you make others see." – Edgar Degas.

This quote by Degas reminds us that art is a conduit for perspective. It's about sharing a vision and evoking emotions that may otherwise remain dormant.

"Creativity takes courage." – Henri Matisse.

Matisse's words highlight the bravery required to create. To be an artist, one must bare one's soul, embrace vulnerability, and face the possibility of rejection and criticism.

"Every artist was first an amateur." – Ralph Waldo Emerson.

Emerson's wisdom tells us that greatness starts from humble beginnings. Every master begins with a first step, and an artist's journey is one of continuous learning and growth.

"The purpose of art is washing the dust of daily life off our souls." – Pablo Picasso.

Picasso beautifully encapsulates the transformative power of art. It doesn't just wash the dust of daily life off our souls, it elevates us, refreshes our spirits, and provides solace in the chaos of everyday life. It's a beacon of hope, a source of inspiration, and a catalyst for change.

"Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time." – Thomas Merton.

Merton's quote speaks to the duality of art. It is a journey of self-discovery and an escape, allowing us to examine our innermost thoughts while also losing ourselves in the creative process.

Each of these quotes offers a window into the philosophy and mindset of artists, encouraging us to reflect on the profound impact art has on our lives. They remind us of the importance of supporting and nurturing the creative souls among us, ensuring that their voices continue to inspire and challenge us.

More Artist's Quotes On the Nature of Art and Artists

The Essence of Being an Artist:

1. “An artist cannot fail; it is a success to be one.” – Charles Horton Cooley.
2. “An artist is a dreamer consenting to dream of the actual world.” – George Santayana.
3. “An artist’s career always begins tomorrow.” – James McNeill Whistler.
4. “An artist is someone who produces things that people don’t need to have but that he – for some reason – thinks it would be a good idea to give them.” – Andy Warhol.

Art as a Reflection of the Soul:

1. “Every artist dips his brush in his own soul and paints his own nature into his pictures.” – Henry Ward Beecher.
2. “The true painter strives to paint what can only be seen through his world.” – André Malraux.
3. “The artist does not see things as they are, but as he is.” – Alfred Tonnelle.

The Relationship Between Art and Life:

1. “The world today doesn’t make sense, so why should I paint pictures that do?” – Pablo Picasso.
2. “Art is the only way to run away without leaving home.” – Twyla Tharp.
3. “Art is not a thing; it is a way.” – Elbert Hubbard.
4. “Art is like a border of flowers along the course of civilisation.” – Lincoln Steffens.

Art as a Form of Expression:

1. “I found I could say things with colour and shapes that I couldn’t say any other way – things I had no words for.” – Georgia O’Keeffe.
2. “Every portrait that is painted with feeling is a portrait of the artist, not of the sitter.” – Oscar Wilde.
3. “Painting is just another way of keeping a diary.” – Pablo Picasso.

The Challenges and Joys of Creating Art:

1. “Creativity is allowing yourself to make mistakes. Art is knowing which ones to keep.” – Scott Adams.
2. “Painting is easy when you don’t know how, but very difficult when you do.” – Edgar Degas.
3. “All art requires courage.” – Anne Tucker.

Art’s Impact and Significance:

1. “The aim of art is to represent not the outward appearance of things, but their inward significance.” – Aristotle.
2. “Art is when you hear a knocking from your soul – and you answer.” – Terri Guillemets.
3. “Great art picks up where nature ends.” – Marc Chagall.

The Philosophy and Perspective of Artists:

1. “An artist cannot talk about his art any more than a plant can discuss horticulture.” – Jean Cocteau.
2. “As far as I am concerned, a painting speaks for itself. What is the use of giving explanations, when all is said and done? A painter has only one language.” – Pablo Picasso.
3. “The artist is the opposite of the politically minded individual, the opposite of the reformer, the opposite of the idealist. The artist does not tinker with the universe; he recreates it out of his own experience and understanding of life.” – Henry Miller.

Art as a Lifelong Journey:

1. “Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.” – Pablo Picasso.
2. “An artist never really finishes his work; he merely abandons it.” – Paul Valéry.
3. “An artist’s instinct is more refined than the typical mortal’s.” – Holden Rinehart.

Art as a Universal Experience:

1. “Man will begin to recover the moment he takes art as seriously as physics, chemistry or money.” – Ernst Levy.
2. “Art is the triumph over chaos.” – John Cheever.
3. “What was any art but a mould in which to imprison for a moment the shining elusive element which is life itself – life hurrying past us and running away, too strong to stop, too sweet to lose.” – Willa Cather.

Humorous and Quirky Views on Art:

1. “Surely nothing has to listen to so many stupid remarks as a painting in a museum.” – Edmond & Jules de Goncourt.
2. “Artists can colour the sky red because they know it’s blue. Those of us who aren’t artists must colour things the way they really are or people might think we’re stupid.” – Jules Feiffer.
3. “If Michelangelo had been straight; the Sistine Chapel would have been wallpapered.” – Robin Tyler.

Thought-Provoking Insights:

1. “Listen carefully to first criticisms made of your work. Note just what it is about your work that critics don’t like – then cultivate it. That’s the only part of your work that’s individual and worth keeping.” – Jean Cocteau.
2. “No great artist ever sees things as they really are. If he did, he would cease to be an artist.” – Oscar Wilde.
3. “We all know that Art is not truth. Art is a lie that makes us realise truth, at least the truth that is given us to understand. The artist must know the manner whereby to convince others of the truthfulness of his lies.” – Pablo Picasso.

Each quote provides a unique perspective on the nature of art and the journey of the artist. They remind us of the beauty, complexity, and transformative power of creative expression.

Feel free to share your favourite quotes or any thoughts you have on the power of art. Together, let’s celebrate and support the vibrant community of living artists who creatively shape our world.