Art Quote by Thomas Bernhard
““Art altogether is nothing but a survival skill, we should never lose sight of this fact, it is, time and again, just an attempt -- an attempt that seems touching even to our intellect -- to cope with this world and its revolting aspects, which, as we know, is invariably possible only by resorting to lies and falsehoods, to hyprocrisy and self-deception, Reger said. These pictures are full of lies and falsehoods and full of hypocrisy and self-deception, there is nothing else in them if we disregard their often inspired artistry. All these pictures, moreover, are an expression of man's absolute helplessness in coping with himself and with what surrounds him all his life. That is what all these pictures express, this helplessness which, on the one hand, embarasses the intellect and, on the other hand, bewilders the same intellect and moves it to tears, Reger said.””
About This Quote
Source Play: Der Theatermacher (The Author), 1975
Art is a coping mechanism for humanity’s helplessness, using deception and self‑deception to confront a hostile world.
In simple terms: Art helps us deal with a painful reality through illusion.
Key Takeaway
Recognize art’s role in confronting existential distress.
Themes
art
existentialism
illusion
Mood
reflective
melancholic
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- therapy
- creative expression
- social critique
Key Concepts
self‑deception
coping
human condition
Questions to Reflect On
- What truths does art conceal?
- How does deception in art affect the viewer?
A Different Perspective
Art may also reinforce falsehoods, not just heal.
