Cities Quote by El Anatsui
![“I come from a place where you have a lot of sky. But [in New York City] you have to really look up to realize that there is eventually sky, somewhere. ...Sky is not a common commodity.” quote by El Anatsui](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/37e/el-anatsui-68068_cities_i-come-from-a-place-where-you-have-a-lot_2164692.jpg)
“I come from a place where you have a lot of sky. But [in New York City] you have to really look up to realize that there is eventually sky, somewhere. ...Sky is not a common commodity.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Art Basel, 2015, El Anatsui discussing urban perception
The quote reflects on how dense city environments obscure the natural sky, making it a rare, valued experience that requires conscious effort to notice.
In simple terms: Cities hide the sky; noticing it takes effort.
Key Takeaway
Seek moments to notice the sky in urban life.
Themes
urban life
perception
environment
artistic insight
Mood
reflective
contemplative
Type
philosophical
observational
When to use this quote
- city walking
- photography
- urban planning
- mindfulness practice
- public art installations
Key Concepts
spatial awareness
visual perception
environmental consciousness
Questions to Reflect On
- How does your environment shape what you consider ordinary?
- What practices help you notice hidden aspects of daily life?
A Different Perspective
In some places the sky is always visible, so the insight may feel less profound.
![“Just between you and me, shouldn’t the World Bank be encouraging MORE migration of the dirty industries to the LDCs [Less Developed Countries]?... I think the economic logic behind dumping a load of toxic waste in the lowest wage country is impeccable and we should face up to that... I’ve always…” quote by Lawrence Summers](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ac4/lawrence-summers-16940_air_just-between-you-and-me-shouldn-t-the-wo_4703.jpg)
