Famous quote by Edvard Munch

"Oil-painting is a developed technique. Why go backwards?"

About this Quote

Edvard Munch's quote, "Oil-painting is a developed strategy. Why reverse?" is a succinct declaration that reveals a stress in between tradition and innovation in creative practice. To analyze this quote, we can delve into several layers of meaning.

To start with, Munch's recommendation to oil painting as a "industrialized method" acknowledges the medium's long history and the precise development it has undergone over centuries. Oil painting has been a dominant force in art given that the Renaissance, treasured for its versatility, depth, and richness of color. By calling it "developed", Munch is recognizing the conclusion of understanding, skill, and improvement that generations of artists have actually added to this medium. For Munch, oil painting represents high art in its skilled and developed form.

The 2nd part of the quote, "Why reverse?" can be translated as a rhetorical question which raises the problem of creative development versus fond memories. During Munch's time, the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the art world was experiencing extensive changes. Motions such as Impressionism, Post-Impressionism, and Expressionism were difficult standard strategies and subjects. Munch himself, understood for his mentally expressive works like "The Scream", became part of this wave of modernist experimentation. His concern could be viewed as a review of artists who eschew modern developments in favor of antiquated approaches, hence forgoing the richness of development for the sake of custom.

Alternatively, Munch's statement may show a sense of aggravation with those who dismiss oil painting's capacity because of its standard roots. It recommends a call to harness and broaden upon the inherent strengths of oil painting rather than abandoning it in favor of novelty for novelty's sake. In this light, Munch might be advocating for a balanced technique that honors the depth and accomplishments of the past while welcoming the possibilities of the future.

In essence, Munch's quote invites factor to consider of the vibrant interaction in between tradition and innovation, advising artists to acknowledge and build on the strengths of recognized techniques instead of regressively declining them.

About the Author

Edvard Munch This quote is written / told by Edvard Munch between December 12, 1863 and January 23, 1944. He was a famous Painter from Norway. The author also have 29 other quotes.
Go to author profile

Similar Quotes