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About this quote

What does it mean?
Artists strive for creation that rivals divine power.
In plain terms
Artists compete with God through their work.
What can you take from it?
Artistic creation is seen as a high, almost divine endeavor.

Where it applies

  • art theory
  • creative process discussions
  • philosophy

Putting it to work

  • view art as a profound act

Questions to consider

  • Is art a form of creation comparable to divine acts?
  • What makes art divine?

Another view

Not all art is intended to compete with divinity.

More from Patti Smith

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  3. Christianity made us think there's one heaven.

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