David Bowie: 'All art really does is keep you focused on questions of humanity, and it really is about how do we get on with our maker.'

All art really does is keep you focused on questions of humanity, and it really is about how do we get on with our maker.

David Bowie once said, 'All art really does is keep you focused on questions of humanity, and it really is about how do we get on with our maker.' At first glance, this quote may seem straightforward, highlighting the role of art in exploring human nature and our relationship with a higher power. Art, in its various forms, has the power to delve into the depths of our existence, provoking thought, reflection, and an exploration of the human condition. However, within this seemingly simple statement lies a vast canvas of philosophical concepts waiting to be explored.When Bowie speaks of art keeping us focused on questions of humanity, he touches upon the ability of art to serve as a mirror, reflecting back who we are as individuals and as a society. It is through this reflection that we can ponder our place in the world, our purpose, and the connections we have with others. Artistic expressions, be it music, painting, literature, or film, capture the nuances of human emotions, experiences, and conflicts, inviting us to contemplate and engage with the complexities of our existence.Yet, Bowie takes this notion further by suggesting that art is also about how we get on with our maker. Here, he alludes to a deeper philosophical concept, the idea of a divine presence or a higher power. By framing art in this context, Bowie implies that it serves as a bridge between us and our creator, prompting us to consider our relationship with the divine and the ultimate questions of existence.This unexpected philosophical twist introduces a fascinating contrast between the secular and the sacred, the human and the divine. It sparks an exploration of the ways in which art transcends mere aesthetic pleasure and reaches into the realms of spirituality and metaphysics. In this light, art becomes a channel through which we attempt to make sense of our place in the universe, to grapple with the mysteries of life and death, and to seek a connection with something beyond ourselves.Art, then, becomes a vehicle for both introspection and transcendence. It encourages us to reflect on our own humanity and the shared human experience while simultaneously inviting us to reach out to the metaphysical, the divine, or our concept of the "maker." It blurs the boundaries between the tangible and the intangible, challenging us to contemplate the interplay between the physical and spiritual aspects of our existence.Furthermore, Bowie's quote reminds us that art is not simply a means of entertainment or decoration; it possesses a profound purpose that goes beyond aesthetics. It serves as a catalyst for personal growth, intellectual stimulation, and emotional catharsis. By engaging with art, we embark on a journey of self-discovery, a quest to understand the human condition and our place within it. Through art, we grapple with existential questions, confront our fears and desires, and gain insights into the depths of our own being.In a world often consumed by the superficial and the immediate, art serves as a poignant reminder of our shared humanity and the deeper meaning that lies beneath the surface. Whether we create art ourselves or appreciate the creations of others, we partake in an ongoing dialogue about what it means to be human and how we navigate our existence.So, let David Bowie's words resonate within you as you explore the world of art. Allow yourself to be captivated, provoked, and touched by the myriad of artistic expressions that surround us. Let art become the lens through which you contemplate the questions of humanity and consider how you get on with your own concept of a maker. Embrace the transformative power of art and allow it to guide you on a journey of self-discovery and connection to the divine.