Elevators Quote by Matei Calinescu
“A real Rembrandt hung in a millionaire's home elevator would undoubtedly make for kitsch.”
About This Quote
Source essay: “Kitsch and the Modern World” by Matei Calinescu, 1975
Displaying a famous artwork in a lavish, private setting reduces its cultural value to mere decoration.
In simple terms: Art in opulent spaces becomes kitsch.
Key Takeaway
Avoid turning high art into status symbols.
Themes
art
kitsch
elitism
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
philosophical
cultural
When to use this quote
- museum curation
- interior design
- public display
Key Concepts
cultural capital
aesthetic value
Questions to Reflect On
- Does context determine artistic worth?
- Can personal enjoyment coexist with cultural respect?
A Different Perspective
Some argue that private enjoyment of art is valid.
