Andy Warhol: 'I just happen to like ordinary things. When I paint them, I don't try to make them extraordinary. I just try to paint them ordinary-ordinary.'

I just happen to like ordinary things. When I paint them, I don't try to make them extraordinary. I just try to paint them ordinary-ordinary.

Andy Warhol, a famous American artist, once said, "I just happen to like ordinary things. When I paint them, I don't try to make them extraordinary. I just try to paint them ordinary-ordinary." At first glance, this quote may seem paradoxical. Why would an artist deliberately seek out ordinary subjects and aim to paint them without any attempt to enhance or transform them? However, upon closer examination, Warhol's words carry an important meaning and reveal a profound approach to art. In this article, we will explore the significance of this quote and delve into an unexpected philosophical concept that sheds light on Warhol's artistic philosophy.Warhol's quote emphasizes his fascination with the ordinary, the banal, and the everyday objects that often go unnoticed. Unlike many artists who strive to elevate their subject matter to a higher plane of significance, Warhol found beauty and interest in the mundane. His art celebrated the simplicity of a soup can, the pathos of a dollar bill, or the allure of a common household object. By intentionally avoiding attempts to make these subjects extraordinary, Warhol allowed them to be seen as they truly are, in their purest form.This approach challenges conventional notions of art's purpose, which often involve creating something unique, unusual, or awe-inspiring. Warhol's desire to paint the ordinary-ordinary suggests a deeper questioning of society's obsession with glamour and the exotic. By choosing to capture everyday objects without adding any embellishments, Warhol provokes us to reconsider our own biases towards the ordinary and reevaluate what we perceive as valuable or meaningful.Now, let us introduce an unexpected philosophical concept that adds another layer of intrigue to Warhol's quote. The concept of "philosophical quietism" seems unrelated to Warhol's art at first, but upon closer inspection, we find fascinating parallels. Philosophical quietism is a school of thought that promotes the idea of accepting and embracing the ordinary aspects of life, without constantly seeking transcendence or philosophical grandeur. Similar to Warhol's approach to art, it encourages individuals to find contentment in the ordinary-ordinary, without feeling the need to constantly transform or elevate their experiences.The connection between Warhol's artistic philosophy and philosophical quietism lies in their shared appreciation for the present moment and the ordinary aspects of existence. Both reject the notion that constant pursuit of the extraordinary can lead to happiness or fulfillment. Instead, they advocate for finding beauty and meaning in the simplicity of our daily lives.While Warhol's artistic intentions are primarily aesthetic in nature, his emphasis on the ordinary-ordinary resonates with the philosophical concept of quietism. By encouraging us to appreciate the mundane, Warhol prompts us to pause, look closely, and find significance in the simplest moments and objects. In a world that often glorifies the exceptional, this perspective offers an alternative mindset—a gentle reminder to find satisfaction in the ordinary-ordinary rather than relentlessly pursuing the extraordinary.In conclusion, Andy Warhol's quote, "I just happen to like ordinary things. When I paint them, I don't try to make them extraordinary. I just try to paint them ordinary-ordinary," invites us to reevaluate our relationship with the ordinary and celebrate its inherent beauty. This approach challenges conventional ideals of artistry and encourages us to find contentment and meaning in the simplicity of everyday life. By introducing the unexpected concept of philosophical quietism, we discover remarkable parallels between Warhol's philosophy and this school of thought. Both emphasize the value of embracing the ordinary-ordinary and finding fulfillment without constantly seeking the extraordinary. Perhaps, in appreciating the ordinary, we can uncover a newfound richness and depth in our lives.