"A painting is a symbol for the universe. Inside it, each piece relates to the other. Each piece is only answerable to the rest of that little world. So, probably in the total universe, there is that kind of total harmony, but we get only little tastes of it"

Corita Kent's quote uses a profound viewpoint on the interconnectedness and harmony of both art and deep space. When she suggests that "A painting is a sign for the universe", she's drawing a parallel in between the microcosm of a canvas and the macrocosm of deep space. In a painting, each element, be it color, shape, or line, is diligently placed in relation to the others, producing a cohesive whole. This harmony within a painting imitates the bigger, often unfathomable, order of the universe.

Kent stresses that "Inside it, each piece associates with the other", highlighting the interdependent nature of the aspects within a painting. No single part exists in isolation; its meaning and effect are derived from its relationship with the rest. This mirrors how each component in deep space-- from galaxies to subatomic particles-- engages within a complicated web of connections, forming a merged, harmonious system.

Her statement that "Each piece is just answerable to the rest of that little world" highlights the concept that within any system, whether it's a painting or the universe, aspects derive their purpose and identity from their environments. In a painting, colors and forms gain significance through their interaction, just as specific lives and occasions in the universe acquire indicating through their connections.

Lastly, Kent's reflection that "probably in the total universe, there is that sort of total consistency, however we get just little tastes of it" conveys both optimism and humility. It suggests a belief in an overarching order and balance in the universe regardless of the chaos typically viewed in daily life. Our peeks of this consistency come in fleeting minutes of charm or understanding, much like the experience of seeing art. Through her metaphor, Kent encourages us to appreciate these flashes of coherence and interconnectedness, whether within a painting or in the vastness of the universe.