Art Quote by William Morris
“So I say, if you cannot learn to love real art; at least learn to hate sham art and reject it. It is not because the wretched thing is so ugly and silly and useless that I ask you to cast it from you; it is much more because these are but the outward symbols of the poison that lies within them; look through them and see all that has gone to their fashioning, and you will see how vain labour, and sorrow, and disgrace have been their companions from the first-and all this for trifles that no man really needs!”
About This Quote
Source Book: News From Nowhere, William Morris, 1890
If you cannot love true art, at least reject false art, which reflects inner corruption.
In simple terms: Reject fake art; it shows inner decay.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate discernment for authentic creativity.
Themes
art
authenticity
morality
Mood
critical
philosophical
Type
aesthetic
ethical
When to use this quote
- museum curation
- art education
- creative practice
- media literacy
Key Concepts
Aesthetic philosophy
cultural criticism
symbolism
Questions to Reflect On
- What criteria define true art?
- How does art influence moral values?
A Different Perspective
Distinguishing genuine from superficial art can be subjective.
