Art Quote by Esa-Pekka Salonen
“When an artist works today or whenever, it's not about creating immortal masterpieces, because that's the one thing we don't decide ourselves.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Podcast with The Guardian, 2020
Artists should focus on present expression rather than seeking timeless fame, acknowledging limited control over legacy.
In simple terms: Create now, not for eternity.
Key Takeaway
Embrace the moment.
Themes
art
creativity
legacy
control
Mood
reflective
inspired
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- exhibitions
- studio practice
- public commissions
- personal projects
Key Concepts
existentialism
impermanence
artist mindset
Questions to Reflect On
- How does focusing on the present change your creative process?
- What does “immortal” mean to you?
A Different Perspective
Even without fame, work can impact audiences.
![“There is something very special about this part of the world [U.S], which is the openness and the curiosity and the lack of prejudice and the lack of generally accepted norms as to what art should be and how an artist's career should go and all that.” quote by Esa-Pekka Salonen](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/503/esa-pekka-salonen-8409_accepted_there-is-something-very-special-about-th_45594.jpg)
