Skip to content

Creation Quote by Francis Bacon

“A picture should be a re-creation of an event rather than an illustration of an object; but there is no tension in the picture unless there is a struggle with the object.” quote by Francis Bacon
Download Open image
“A picture should be a re-creation of an event rather than an illustration of an object; but there is no tension in the picture unless there is a struggle with the object.”

Francis Bacon

About This Quote

Source Treatise: Novum Organum, 1620

A picture should capture the struggle behind an event, not just depict an object.

In simple terms: Show conflict, not just objects.

Key Takeaway

Highlight tension in visual storytelling.

Themes

art conflict representation

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

philosophical critical

When to use this quote

  • photography
  • painting
  • film
  • graphic design

Key Concepts

aesthetic theory visual narrative symbolism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does tension change perception?
  • What struggles can you reveal visually?
A Different Perspective

Focusing only on objects can miss deeper meaning.

2.5 out of 5 (3 ratings)

More by Francis Bacon

Explore all 711 Francis Bacon quotes

More Creation quotes

Browse all 5,225 Creation quotes