Art Quote by Edward Abbey
““The ancient canyon art of Utah belongs in that same international museum without walls which makes African sculpture, Melanesian masks, and the junkyards of New Jersey equally interesting—those voices of silence which speak to us in the first world language. As for the technical competence of the artists, its measure is apparent in the fact that these pictographs and petroglyphs though exposed to the attack of wind, sand, rain, heat, cold and sunlight for centuries still survive vivid and clear. How much of the painting and sculpture being done in America today will last—in the merely physical sense—for even a half-century?””
About This Quote
Source Essay: Desert Solitaire, 1968
The quote highlights the enduring power of ancient art and questions the longevity of contemporary American art, emphasizing cultural universality and material resilience.
In simple terms: Ancient art endures; modern art may not.
Key Takeaway
Consider durability when creating art.
Themes
cultural heritage
art preservation
material endurance
Mood
reflective
critical
contemplative
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- museum curation
- public art installations
- heritage conservation
- urban graffiti
- temporary installations
Key Concepts
anthropology
environmental impact
artistic legacy
Questions to Reflect On
- What materials can ensure lasting impact?
- How does cultural context affect preservation?
A Different Perspective
Modern art often prioritizes concept over material longevity, risking decay.
