Art Quote by Bryan Magee
““It follows from Schopenhauer’s analysis that evert genuine work of art must have its origin in direct perception; that is to say it does not originate in concepts, and concepts are not what it communicates. This is what more than anything else differentiates good art from bad, or more accurately authentic from inauthentic art. The latter often originates in a desire on the part of the artist to meet some demand external to himself – to win approval, say, or be in the fashion, or supply a market – or else to put over a message of some sort. Such an artist starts by trying to thin what it would be a good idea to do – in other words, the starting point of the process for him is something that exists in terms of concepts. The inevitable result is dead art, of whatever kind, whether imitative, academic, commercial, didactic or fashion-conscious. It may be successful in its day because it meets the demands of its day, but once that day is over it has no inner life of its own with which to outlive it.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Philosophy of Schopenhauer, Bryan Magee, 1995
Authentic art arises from direct perception, not from conceptual intent or external demands; when art is driven by market or approval, it becomes lifeless and short‑lived.
In simple terms: Good art comes from what you see, not what you think.
Create from experience, not expectation.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- painting
- music composition
- film direction
- product design
- advertising campaigns
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can artists stay true to perception in a commercial world?
- What does “inner life” mean for a work of art?
If the audience’s taste changes, concept‑driven art may lose relevance quickly.