"それ自体に関心があり主題に関心がない芸術ほど貧しく憂鬱なものは本当にありません"

When art becomes more concerned with itself than with its subject matter, it loses its emotional and communicative power. Essentially, when artists focus solely on their techniques, styles, or reputations, rather than the message or emotions they're trying to convey, their work can become hollow and uninspiring.

Historically, this concept has been echoed by many artists and critics. It reminds me of the art movements where form started to overshadow content. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, some artistic circles became obsessed with the avant-garde, prioritizing innovation over substance. This led to works that were technically impressive but emotionally distant.

Imagine you’re walking through a modern art gallery. You stumble upon two sculptures. One is a complex, abstract piece that the artist created to showcase their mastery of form and structure. It’s intricate and visually stimulating, but you struggle to connect with it because it doesn’t convey any clear message or emotion. You move on to the next sculpture. This one is simpler—a figure of a mother holding her child. The roughness of the material and the simplicity of the form convey a raw emotion that immediately strikes you. You feel the love, the protection, and the fragility of life. This piece, though less technically complex, resonates deeply because it’s focused on its subject.

So how do we apply this wisdom in our own creative endeavors? First, always remember why you’re creating something. Whether you’re writing, painting, designing, or performing, let your subject be your guide. Keep asking yourself: What am I trying to say? What emotions am I trying to evoke? Let the answers to these questions shape your work.

Think about a chef preparing a meal. If their main concern is to show off their knife skills or to use the trendiest ingredients, the dish might look fantastic but lack heart and soul. On the other hand, if they’re cooking with the aim of evoking the comforting memories of a family dinner, that intention will infuse the meal with a special flavor that techniques alone can’t achieve. We can taste the love and care in every bite.

Now, picture a writer working on a novel. They’ve got the mechanics of storytelling down—perfect grammar, rich vocabulary, and impeccable structure. But if their focus is just on these elements, the story might feel empty. Instead, if the writer pours their own experiences, emotions, and insights into the characters and plot, the novel becomes a living, breathing piece that readers can connect with on a deeper level.

At the end of the day, it’s about balance. Technical skills are important—they’re the tools in our creative toolbox. But if we let the tools overshadow the subject, our art can become detached and sterile. Let’s not lose sight of what truly matters: the stories we’re telling, the emotions we’re sharing, and the connections we’re making. So next time you’re creating, think less about how you’re doing it and more about what you’re trying to say. The richness and warmth of your subject will shine through, making your art not just impressive, but truly meaningful.