Art Quote by John Barth
““My feeling about technique in art is that it has about the same value as technique in lovemaking. That is to say, heartfelt ineptitude has its appeal and so does heartless skill; but what you want is passionate virtuosity.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Art of Technique,” 1972
Technique can be either heartfelt clumsiness or cold precision; true art seeks passionate mastery.
In simple terms: Good art blends feeling with skill.
Pursue passionate mastery.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- painting
- writing
- performance
- craftsmanship
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Can technique be both skilled and heartfelt?
- What does passionate virtuosity look like?
Pure technique without feeling feels empty.