'Vogue' and 'Vice' may appear to some to see the world through different lenses. But in my view, both are fearless and breathtaking, with unquenchable curiosity and vigor.
Interpretation
The quote reflects on the boldness and inquisitive nature of two prominent magazines, suggesting that they share a common adventurous spirit despite their differences.
In this quote, Anna Wintour emphasizes the idea that both 'Vogue' and 'Vice', although seemingly different in their outlooks and focuses, embody a fearless approach to exploring the world. She highlights the importance of curiosity and a vigorous pursuit of unique perspectives, suggesting that both publications contribute significantly to the cultural narrative by daring to showcase life from various angles.
In practice
During a panel discussion about the role of media in shaping culture.
It would be ridiculous to ignore the speed and possibilities of the digital landscape - you absolutely need to have fast-moving news online, but if you want to build a large audience over time, you absolutely have to take a risk on the big challenging stuff.
With all the new media outlets out there, with all the noise, a voice of authority and calm like Vogue becomes more important than ever. The more eyes on fashion, the more opinions about fashion, the more exploration of fashion around the world, the better it is for Vogue. Vogue is like Nike or Coca-Cola—this huge global brand. I want to enhance it, I want to protect it, and I want it to be part of the conversation.
Fashion is not beautiful, neither is it ugly. Why should it be either? Fashion is fashion.
I think what I often see is that people are frightened about fashion. Because it scares them or makes them feel insecure, so they just put it down. On the whole people that may say the mean things about our world I think that’s usually because they feel, in some ways, excluded or, you know, not a part of ‘the cool group’ so as a result they just mock it.
I think we're living, in terms of media, in a very democratic age, but I think that we still look at everything through the lens of 'Vogue' and through our own point of view.
In today's world you have to interact. You can't be some difficult, shy person who is not able to look somebody in the face; you have to present yourself. You have to know how to talk about your vision, your focus and what you believe in.
Close the door. Write with no one looking over your shoulder. Don't try to figure out what other people want to hear from you; figure out what you have to say. It's the one and only thing you have to offer.
If you can make people understand why freedom is so important through the arts, that would be a big help.
If there's one theme in all my work, it's about authenticity and self-expression. It's the idea that some things are, in some real sense, really you - or express what you and others aren't.
It starts with this: put your desk in the corner, and every time you sit down there to write, remind yourself why it isn't in the middle of the room. Life isn't a support system for art. It's the other way around.
Poetry confronts in the most clear-eyed way just those emotions which consciousness wishes to slide by.
All great art is the work of the whole living creature, body and soul, and chiefly of the soul.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.