Skip to content

Art Quote by Plato

“And yet the artist will go on with his work without knowing in some way if any of his representations are sound or unsound. The artist knows nothing worth mentioning about the subjects he represents, and that art is a form of play, not to be taken seriously.” quote by Plato
Download Open image
“And yet the artist will go on with his work without knowing in some way if any of his representations are sound or unsound. The artist knows nothing worth mentioning about the subjects he represents, and that art is a form of play, not to be taken seriously.”

Plato

About This Quote

Source Dialogue: Theaetetus, translated 1914

Art is a playful activity, not a serious pursuit, and the artist lacks deep knowledge of his subjects.

In simple terms: Art is a game, not a serious study.

Key Takeaway

Recognize art’s playful nature.

Themes

art play knowledge seriousness

Mood

contemplative skeptical

Type

philosophical critical

When to use this quote

  • art criticism
  • creative workshops
  • educational settings

Key Concepts

epistemology aesthetics philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is all art frivolous?
  • How does playfulness affect artistic value?
A Different Perspective

May undervalue the cultural impact of art.

2.4 out of 5 (10 ratings)

More by Plato

Explore all 1,278 Plato quotes

More Art quotes

Browse all 48,652 Art quotes