How do you paint yellow wheat against a yellow sky? You paint it jet black.
Ben ShahnRead
It is the mission of art to remind man from time to time that he is human, and the time is ripe, just now, today, for such a reminder.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Art serves as a reminder of our humanity, especially in the present moment.
In this quote, Ben Shahn emphasizes the essential role of art in reconnecting individuals with their humanity. He suggests that art has the power to evoke introspection and self-awareness, highlighting current events or feelings that prompt us to remember our shared human experience. The assertion that 'the time is ripe' indicates that there are moments when this reminder is particularly crucial and timely, urging society to engage with art to reflect on their values, feelings, and collective identity.
Themes
ArtHumanityReminderTimeIntrospection
In practice
Example use cases
During an art exhibition, a curator could quote Ben Shahn to emphasize the relevance of the displayed works.
More from Ben Shahn
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Joss WhedonRead
Elegance must be the right combination of distinction, naturalness, care and simplicity. Outside this, believe me, there is no elegance. Only pretension.
Christian DiorRead