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I want to try to come away from that one directional…

“I want to try to come away from that one directional, clear rectangular form. It's not used because it's the most beautiful form; it's just the practical thing. That's why our TVs are rectangles. Even in modern architecture, they want us to believe, "That's the nicest, most beautiful thing." I…” quote by Pipilotti Rist
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“I want to try to come away from that one directional, clear rectangular form. It's not used because it's the most beautiful form; it's just the practical thing. That's why our TVs are rectangles. Even in modern architecture, they want us to believe, "That's the nicest, most beautiful thing." I love modern architecture, but actually it's that they cannot afford amorphous shapes or ornaments.”

Pipilotti Rist

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The quote critiques how functional constraints dictate design, making rectangular TVs and architecture the norm despite aesthetic possibilities.

In simple terms: Practical needs shape design more than beauty.

Key Takeaway

Recognize constraints and explore creative alternatives.

Themes

design functionality aesthetics modernism

Mood

critical reflective

Type

analytical commentary

When to use this quote

  • product design
  • architectural planning
  • consumer electronics
  • artistic experimentation

Key Concepts

form constraint economics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can designers balance beauty and practicality?
  • What alternatives exist for affordable, non‑rectangular forms?
A Different Perspective

Aesthetic ideals may be compromised by cost and manufacturing limits.

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