"It is not hard to understand modern art. If it hangs on a wall it's a painting, and if you can walk around it it's a sculpture"
- Tom Stoppard
About this Quote
In this quote, Tom Stoppard is streamlining the idea of contemporary art. He is stating that the distinction between a painting and a sculpture is quite clear. If a piece of art is hung on a wall, it is thought about a painting. This is because paintings are generally flat and meant to be seen from one angle. On the other hand, if an art piece enables motion and can be viewed from different angles, it is considered a sculpture. Stoppard's statement highlights the concept that contemporary art can be easily understood by merely observing its physical positioning and form.