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About this quote

What does it mean?
Kandinsky credits his love for hidden and mysterious things with protecting him from the negative effects of popular art.
In plain terms
Liking what is mysterious and hidden kept him from being influenced by popular art.
What can you take from it?
Seeking mystery protects artists from mainstream trends.

Where it applies

  • avoiding trends
  • developing style
  • critiquing mass media

Putting it to work

  • prioritize depth over popularity
  • explore hidden themes
  • resist commercial pressure

Questions to consider

  • Does popularity dilute artistic value?
  • Why do we value the mysterious?

Another view

Popular art can also offer valuable insights and connection with broad audiences.

More from Wassily Kandinsky

  1. What is right artistically can only be attained through feeling.

    Permalink to quote #11
  2. Art has much in common with religion.

    Permalink to quote #13
  3. Art, like love, has a fine detail to it. You need to know exactly what is going on.

    Permalink to quote #10

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