"The character of the artist doesn't enter into the nature of the art"
- Lucian Freud
About this Quote
The quote "The character of the artist doesn't enter into the nature of the art" by Lucian Freud welcomes an expedition of the relationship between an artist's individuality and their innovative output. This statement recommends a separation in between the individual who develops and the art itself, proposing that the intrinsic qualities and worth of art are independent of the artist's personal qualities, behaviors, or scenarios.
One interpretation of Freud's assertion is that art goes beyond personal identity; it stands alone as an entity independent of its creator's life and personality. This viewpoint lines up with the formalist technique to art criticism, which highlights the significance of stylistic and compositional components over biographical information. From this viewpoint, art is valued for its aesthetic qualities and the experiences it stimulates, rather than as a reflection of the artist's personal experiences or ethical standing.
In addition, the quote can be seen as highlighting the universality of art. By marking art from the artist, it becomes available and open to analysis by a wide audience, each bringing their own context to their understanding. This universality enables art to resonate on different levels, acquiring significance and significance beyond the artist's own intentions or life story.
On the other hand, some might argue that the artist's character inherently affects their work, whether through conscious intent or subconscious influence. For these critics, understanding the artist's background, beliefs, and experiences enriches the narrative and emotional depth of the art, enabling a more nuanced gratitude.
Freud's statement may work as a pointer to assess art within its own context, motivating viewers to engage directly with the work rather than relying exclusively on external stories about the artist. Eventually, this perspective promotes deeper personal connections with art, triggering individual interpretation and subjective experience to come to the forefront, enabling the artwork to stand on its own merits.
"I am against nature. I don't dig nature at all. I think nature is very unnatural. I think the truly natural things are dreams, which nature can't touch with decay"