Art Quote by Walker Evans
“You see, a document has use, whereas art is really useless. Therefore art is never a document, although it can adopt that style.”
About This Quote
Art is often seen as purposeless compared to documents that serve a function, so art cannot be a document even if it mimics documentary style.
In simple terms: Art lacks practical use, unlike documents.
Key Takeaway
Recognize art’s distinct purpose.
Themes
art
purpose
function
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- gallery curation
- educational material
- media criticism
Key Concepts
aesthetic theory
media studies
Questions to Reflect On
- Can art serve a functional role?
- What defines a document?
A Different Perspective
Art can still convey information despite being “useless.”
![“What I believe is really good in the so-called documentary approach to photography is the addition of lyricism.[this quality] is usually produced unconsciously and even unintentionally and accidentally by the cameraman.” quote by Walker Evans](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/bfe/walker-evans-14813_approach_what-i-believe-is-really-good-in-the-so_209744.jpg)
![“Nobody should touch a Polaroid [camera] until he's over sixty” quote by Walker Evans](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ccc/walker-evans-14813_cameras_nobody-should-touch-a-polaroid-camera-un_963399.jpg)
