It is very good advice to believe only what an artist does, rather than what he says about his work.

It is very good advice to believe only what an artist does, rather than what he says about his work.

David Hockney

The quote emphasizes the idea that an artist’s true intentions and capabilities are better revealed through their work rather than their words. When artists speak about their creations, they may articulate intentions, meanings, or feelings that can sometimes obscure the actual experience of the work itself. Art is often open to interpretation, and what resonates in a piece may not align with the artist’s expressed thoughts.

This perspective encourages viewers to engage with art on a personal level, drawing their own conclusions based on emotional responses and individual interpretations rather than being swayed by the artist’s explanation or commentary. It suggests that art can communicate universal truths or feelings that transcend verbal expression.

In today’s world—where conversations around authenticity and self-presentation are prominent—this idea can be especially relevant in various contexts including social media, personal relationships, and even professional environments. People often curate their online personas through carefully chosen words while their actions (or lack thereof) might tell a different story. By focusing on actions over words in these scenarios, we cultivate more genuine interactions and deeper understandings of one another.

In terms of personal development, this principle encourages individuals to examine not just what they say about their goals or beliefs but also how they act in relation to those aspirations. For example, someone might express a desire for fitness but if they’re consistently inactive or neglecting healthful habits, it’s essential for them—and others—to focus on those actions instead of mere declarations.

Moreover, applying this notion means fostering self-awareness: reflecting critically on whether our actions align with our spoken values or ambitions enables us to create more authentic lives. This approach nurtures integrity between one’s inner self (beliefs) and outer expression (actions), ultimately leading to growth and fulfillment based on real-world experiences rather than just theoretical discussions.

Thus, believing in what an artist—or person—does rather than solely relying on what they say opens up avenues for richer engagement with art as well as deeper connections with oneself and others in everyday life.

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