Art Quote by Amiri Baraka
“The word “art” is something the West has never understood. Art is supposed to be a part of a community. Like, scholars are supposed to be a part of a community... Art is to decorate people’s houses, their skin, their clothes, to make them expand their minds, and it’s supposed to be right in the community, where they can have it when they want it... It’s supposed to be as essential as a grocery store... that’s the only way art can function naturally.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Art and Community, Amiri Baraka, 1970s
Art should be integrated into everyday life, accessible to all, not isolated in elite spaces.
In simple terms: Art belongs in daily community life.
Key Takeaway
Make art part of everyday spaces.
Themes
community
accessibility
culture
integration
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
philosophical
social
When to use this quote
- urban planning
- public murals
- community workshops
- education curricula
Key Concepts
social function
public art
collective identity
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we ensure art remains public?
- What barriers prevent community art?
A Different Perspective
Art may be commercialized, losing its communal purpose.
