The test of the artist does not lie in the will with which he goes to work, but in the excellence of the work he produces.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: This quote explores the true measure of an artist's skill and talent, emphasizing that the quality and excellence of the artistic work itself are what truly define the artist. It suggests that while motivation and determination are important factors, they alone do not determine the artist's worth or proficiency. Instead, the ultimate judgment lies in the output—the tangible manifestation of their creative abilities.
The quote challenges the notion that the artist's intent or effort is the sole determining factor in evaluating their work. It implies that the true test lies in the objective quality of the art, its impact on the audience, and the level of mastery displayed. It underscores the importance of craftsmanship, skill, and artistic vision in creating meaningful and impactful work.
Moreover, this quote encourages artists to focus on honing their craft and producing work of exceptional quality. It suggests that the true validation comes from the excellence and impact of their creations rather than seeking external validation solely based on their intentions or effort. It emphasizes the importance of continuous growth, refinement, and the pursuit of artistic excellence.
Who said the quote?
The quote "The test of the artist does not lie in the will with which he goes to work, but in the excellence of the work he produces." was said by Thomas Aquinas (Bio / Quotes). Thomas Aquinas was a medieval Italian philosopher and theologian who is best known for his work "Summa Theologica.
Is there a historical example that illustrates the message of the quote?
One compelling historical example that illustrates the message of the quote is the life and work of Vincent van Gogh. Van Gogh, a Dutch Post-Impressionist painter, is renowned for his intense dedication to his art. His commitment was unwavering; he painted prolifically despite struggling with mental health issues and financial hardship. He worked with a fervor that reflected his passion, but it was not merely his will that defined his artistry.
Van Gogh's work during his lifetime was not widely recognized or financially successful. He produced over 2,100 artworks in a short span of just over a decade, including some of his most famous pieces like "Starry Night" and "Sunflowers." It was only after his death that the true excellence of his work was fully appreciated. His unique use of color, innovative brushwork, and emotional depth in his paintings began to be celebrated for their artistic value rather than just his relentless effort.
The excellence of van Gogh’s work, characterized by its profound impact on the art world, stands as a testament to the quote. His art's enduring legacy and influence demonstrate that the true measure of an artist is not solely their willingness to labor but the quality and significance of the work they produce.
How can the quote be applied in a real-life scenario?
In real life, the quote can be applied to various professional and personal endeavors where the focus should be on the outcome rather than just the effort. For instance, consider a project manager leading a complex project at work. While their dedication and hard work are crucial, the real measure of their success is the quality of the project outcome. This could involve the effectiveness of the final product, the satisfaction of the client, or the project’s impact on the company's goals.
For example, if a project manager spends countless hours working on a software development project, their tireless efforts are valuable, but the ultimate success will be judged by the software’s performance, usability, and the user experience it provides. If the software is innovative, reliable, and meets or exceeds expectations, then the excellence of the work will be acknowledged, showing that the result is more significant than just the effort invested.
Similarly, in personal pursuits, such as writing a novel or pursuing a craft, the dedication and time invested are important, but the ultimate measure of success is the quality and impact of the final product. If a writer produces a compelling, well-crafted story that resonates with readers and stands the test of time, their success is attributed to the excellence of their work, rather than merely the hours spent writing.
In both professional and personal contexts, focusing on the excellence of the outcome rather than just the effort can lead to more meaningful achievements and recognition.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
