Art Quote by Walter Pater
“A certain strangeness, something of the blossoming of the aloe, is indeed an element in all true works of art: that they shall excite or surprise us is indispensable.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Nature of the Work of Art” (1873)
True art must surprise and provoke, containing an essential strangeness.
In simple terms: Art needs surprise to be authentic.
Key Takeaway
Seek novelty in creative work.
Themes
art
surprise
creativity
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- painting
- writing
- music composition
- design brainstorming
Key Concepts
aesthetic theory
novelty
Questions to Reflect On
- What makes a work feel genuinely fresh?
- How does surprise affect emotional impact?
A Different Perspective
Surprise can alienate audiences if overused.
![“It is the very essence of art,' she [Hallie Flanagan:] told a group gathered in Washington . . ., 'that it exceed bounds, often including those of tradition, decorum, and that mysterious thing called taste. It is the essence of art that it shatter accepted patterns, advance into unknown territory…” quote by Susan Quinn](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/dda/susan-quinn-59654_art_it-is-the-very-essence-of-art-she-hallie_2758027.jpg)
