Anish Kapoor: 'Being an artist is a very long game. It is not a 10-year game. I hope I'll be around making art when I'm 80.'

Being an artist is a very long game. It is not a 10-year game. I hope I'll be around making art when I'm 80.

The quote by artist Anish Kapoor, "Being an artist is a very long game. It is not a 10-year game. I hope I'll be around making art when I'm 80," encapsulates a profound insight into the nature of an artist's journey. Kapoor emphasizes the longevity required to truly immerse oneself in the creative process, highlighting that it transcends short-term goals or fleeting achievements. The quote underscores the dedication and passion that artists must possess to persist amidst challenges and achieve artistic excellence over an extended period.Kapoor's words resonate with artists, aspiring or established, as they serve as a reminder to adopt a long-term perspective. The creative process is not a sprint; it is a marathon that demands continuous effort, perseverance, and growth. Artists cannot afford to be complacent with temporary success or discouraged by setbacks because they understand that their true artistic journey is a lifelong endeavor. Kapoor's hope to continue creating art even at the age of 80 exemplifies the unwavering commitment an artist should possess, irrespective of age or external expectations.However, beyond the surface meaning of Kapoor's quote, it gives rise to an unexpected philosophical concept: the notion of art as a means of transcending time itself. While Kapoor acknowledges the long game that being an artist requires, he subtly presents the idea that art has the power to exist beyond the constraints of time, societal norms, or individual lifespans. Art becomes a means of establishing a lasting legacy that can connect with generations to come.In comparing and contrasting Kapoor's quote with the concept of art transcending time, one can delve into the idea that an artist, in their pursuit of creation, also seeks a form of immortality. By investing oneself deeply and passionately into the act of making art, artists forge a link between their own journeys and the eternal realm of creativity. Time becomes a fertile ground for exploration, a canvas on which the artist paints their vision and perspective.Furthermore, the notion of art surpassing temporal boundaries challenges the traditional linear understanding of time. It suggests that there can exist a continuum where past, present, and future converge, where a work of art created in one era can speak to individuals in another. This perspective allows artists to transcend the limitations of their own lifespan, leaving an indelible mark on the world and enriching the collective human experience.In conclusion, Anish Kapoor's quote not only emphasizes the extensive timeframe involved in being an artist but also opens up a fascinating philosophical concept. Art, with its ability to transcend time, allows creatives to establish a lasting legacy that speaks to generations beyond their own. The quote serves as both a reminder and an inspiration to artists, encouraging them to commit themselves fully to their craft and embrace the profound impact their creations can have on the world. Ultimately, Kapoor's hope to continue making art at the age of 80 embodies the essence of a passionate artist's lifelong pursuit.