I never wished to be a politician, and I despise them…
“I never wished to be a politician, and I despise them. I've also wrestled with it over the years, and I deeply dislike propaganda. And all art that is about propaganda, no matter how wonderful it's cause may be, I think is morally wrong. That's a major theme of my work. I don't want to control how people think; I want to show them how they are controlled by pictures.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Flood expresses disdain for politics and propaganda, believing art about propaganda is morally wrong and aims to reveal how images control perception.
In simple terms: He dislikes politics, propaganda, and art that supports them; wants to expose visual control.
Key Takeaway
Avoid creating propaganda-like art; focus on exposing visual influence.
Themes
art
politics
propaganda
ethics
control
Mood
critical
reflective
serious
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- gallery exhibitions
- public talks
- educational workshops
- media literacy programs
- artist statements
Key Concepts
visual manipulation
media criticism
moral responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- How can artists expose control without becoming propagandistic?
- What responsibilities do creators have regarding audience influence?
A Different Perspective
Critics may argue that any art inherently carries political weight, making pure neutrality impossible.