Accounts Quote by Paul Outerbridge
“Art is life seen through man's inner craving for perfection and beauty-- his escape from the sordid realities of life into a world of his imagining. Art accounts for at least a third of our civilization, and it is one of the artist's principal duties to do more than merely record life or nature. To the artist is given the privilege of pointing the way and inspiring towards a better life.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Art Theory, 1950s publication
Art serves as an escape from harsh reality, offering a vision of perfection and beauty, and artists have a duty to inspire and guide society toward improvement.
In simple terms: Art lets us imagine beauty beyond reality and inspires better living.
Key Takeaway
Create and share art that uplifts and inspires.
Themes
art
inspiration
social responsibility
Mood
thoughtful
inspirational
Type
philosophical
educational
When to use this quote
- Designing public murals
- teaching art history
- curating exhibitions
- personal creative practice
Key Concepts
Aesthetic idealism
artist’s role in society
Questions to Reflect On
- How can art balance beauty with truth?
- What responsibilities do artists have to society?
A Different Perspective
Art may also reflect reality rather than escape it.
![“[A photograph] should do something to the beholder; either give a more complete appreciation of beauty, or, if nothing else, even a good mental kick in the pants.” quote by Paul Outerbridge](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/12f/paul-outerbridge-45132_appreciation_a-photograph-should-do-something-to-the_805443.jpg)
![“I had a growing feeling that most of the best art of the world in painting and sculpture had been done, and that this newest form [photography] was more related to the progress and tempo of modern science of the eye.” quote by Paul Outerbridge](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/9cf/paul-outerbridge-45132_art_i-had-a-growing-feeling-that-most-of-the_2193253.jpg)
