Absolutes Quote by Paul Strand
“The existence of a medium, after all, is its absolute justification, if as so many seem to think, it needs one and all comparison of potentialities is useless and irrelevant. Whether a water-color is inferior to an oil, or whether a drawing, an etching, or a photograph is not as important as either, is inconsequent. To have to despise something in order to respect something else is a sign of impotence. [emphasis added] Let us rather accept joyously and with gratitude everything through which the spirit of man seeks to an ever fuller and more intense self-realization.”
About This Quote
The passage argues that a medium's value is inherent, not dependent on comparisons; it condemns demeaning one art form to elevate another and urges embracing all creative expressions as part of human self‑realization.
In simple terms: Art's worth is intrinsic; all forms deserve respect.
Key Takeaway
Value each artistic medium equally.
Themes
art
creativity
valuation
comparisons
self‑realization
Mood
thoughtful
inquisitive
appreciative
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- art criticism
- education
- creative practice
- personal growth
Key Concepts
intrinsic value
artistic pluralism
non‑hierarchical appreciation
Questions to Reflect On
- How does medium choice affect message?
- Can all mediums equally foster self‑realization?
A Different Perspective
The claim may overlook practical differences in medium impact and audience reception.
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![“My aim is increasingly to make my photographs look so much like photographs [rather than paintings, etchings, etc.] that unless one has eyes and sees, they won't be seen - and still everyone will never forget having once looked at them.” quote by Alfred Stieglitz](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/530/alfred-stieglitz-13773_aim_my-aim-is-increasingly-to-make-my-photog_822023.jpg)
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