Edgar Degas: 'Only when he no longer knows what he is doing does the painter do good things.'

Only when he no longer knows what he is doing does the painter do good things.

In the realm of art, innovation often arises from a place of uncertainty and ignorance. This notion is beautifully encapsulated by the renowned French painter Edgar Degas in his quote, "Only when he no longer knows what he is doing does the painter do good things." With these words, Degas challenges the conventional belief that skill and expertise are the sole determinants of artistic excellence. Instead, he suggests that true brilliance emerges when an artist ventures into uncharted territories, willing to let go of preconceived notions and embrace the unknown. Degas' quote serves as a reminder that creativity blossoms when one dares to step outside their comfort zone and explores new possibilities.Steeped in its raw simplicity, Degas' statement underlines the significance of embracing uncertainty in the creative process. As artists become more proficient in their craft, they may find themselves settling into familiar techniques and routines, relying on their accumulated knowledge. Yet, Degas argues that true artistic breakthroughs occur not within this realm of familiarity but within the realms of exploration and experimentation. It is only when a painter detaches from the expected and predictable that they can truly create something remarkable.While Degas' quote captures the essence of artistic expression, it also offers a fascinating parallel to a prevalent philosophical concept: the theory of existentialism. Existentialism, a philosophical school of thought that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, revolves around the idea that individuals are responsible for creating the meaning and purpose of their own lives. This philosophy challenges the notion of predetermined destiny and emphasizes the importance of personal agency.In light of this parallel, one might argue that Degas' quote not only applies to the sphere of art but reaches far beyond it. By embracing the unknown and relinquishing control, individuals may discover untapped potential within themselves. This philosophy aligns with the existentialist belief in cosmic indifference; the world is indifferent to our desires and expectations, urging us to embrace uncertainty and forge our own paths.However, it is vital to acknowledge the distinctions between Degas' quote and existentialism. While existentialism focuses on individual agency and the search for meaning in an unpredictable world, Degas' quote emphasizes the crucial role of ignorance and letting go of preconceived notions for creative success. Thus, while both concepts advocate for embracing uncertainty and relinquishing control, they do so within different contexts, yet each offers valuable insights into living a fulfilling and creative life.In conclusion, Edgar Degas's quote, "Only when he no longer knows what he is doing does the painter do good things," encapsulates the idea that true artistic brilliance arises when one ventures into the unknown. This sentiment calls upon artists to break away from the confines of familiarity and embrace uncertainty, allowing creativity to flourish. This notion shares intriguing similarities with existentialist philosophy, which encourages individuals to embrace the uncertain nature of existence and forge their own paths. By recognizing and embracing the role of uncertainty, both in creative endeavors and in life, individuals can unlock new levels of personal growth, innovation, and fulfillment.