"Art's development should be dialectical and not metaphysical"
- Robert Smithson
About this Quote
This quote by Robert Smithson suggests that art must be established through a procedure of dialogue and conversation, rather than through abstract thought. Smithson was a proponent of the Land Art movement, which looked for to develop art in the natural environment. He thought that art should be developed through a process of discussion in between the artist and the environment, instead of through a purely esoteric approach. By taking part in a dialogue with the environment, the artist can create art that is more meaningful and reflective of the environment. Smithson's quote motivates artists to believe critically and to take part in a dialogue with the environment in order to develop meaningful art. This quote also suggests that art should be developed through a process of experimentation and expedition, instead of through a simply metaphysical method. By participating in a discussion with the environment, the artist can develop art that is more significant and reflective of the environment.
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