Art Quote by Daniel Quinn
““People think I am being modest when I tell them I know absolutely nothing about art. But if they show me a piece of student work, I won't have the slightest idea whether it's art or even "good". What I do know is whether such things hang or stand in the houses of the rich - or in the museums where the rich allow their treasures to be seen. And when people understand this, they'll instantly agree with what I said in the first place, that I know absolutely nothing about art.””
About This Quote
Source Interview: The New York Times, 1992
He claims his ignorance about art is evident when he cannot judge student work, yet he can tell where rich display art.
In simple terms: He admits he knows nothing about art but can spot where the rich display it.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the difference between expertise and social context.
Themes
humility
art criticism
social status
Mood
reflective
critical
skeptical
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- museum visits
- art market analysis
- education
- social gatherings
Key Concepts
class perception
cultural capital
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you judge art by its setting?
- How does wealth influence your perception of art?
A Different Perspective
His claim may be seen as elitist, reducing art to wealth symbols.
![“[N]ow we have a clearer idea what this story is all about: The world was made for man, and man was made to rule it.” quote by Daniel Quinn](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/798/daniel-quinn-1786_civilization_n-ow-we-have-a-clearer-idea-what-this-st_60790.jpg)
