Edgar Degas: 'Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.'

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

Art is a powerful medium through which individuals can express their creativity and evoke emotions in others. However, Edgar Degas, a renowned French artist, challenges conventional thinking about art with his thought-provoking quote, "Art is not what you see, but what you make others see." At first glance, this statement implies that art should not be limited to mere visual representation, but should aim to generate a deeper impact on the viewer. To fully understand the significance of Degas' words, let us delve into this concept by introducing an unexpected philosophical perspective.In its straightforward interpretation, Degas' quote emphasizes the transformative nature of art. It suggests that art goes beyond mere representation of the visible world, urging artists to use their creative abilities to elicit specific reactions and emotions in others. By shifting the focus from pure visual observation to a more profound experience, Degas urges artists to become storytellers, capturing and conveying narratives that surpass what is readily seen.However, to explore this concept further, let us introduce the philosophical notion of phenomenology. Influenced by philosophers such as Edmund Husserl and Maurice Merleau-Ponty, phenomenology is a branch of philosophy that investigates the structures of experience and consciousness. It posits that reality is not independent of how we perceive and interpret it.When considering this philosophical lens alongside Degas' quote, a fascinating parallel emerges. Both highlight the subjective nature of art and suggest that the experience of the observer plays a crucial role in understanding and interpreting creative works. Art is not confined to the artist's intentions alone but is also shaped by the unique perspectives, emotions, and memories brought by each viewer.Through this lens, Degas' quote encourages us to acknowledge the active role that viewers play in the creation of meaning within art. Just as different individuals perceive and experience the world differently, they also encounter art through their own personal lens, influenced by their cultural background, experiences, and emotions. The artist's work becomes a catalyst for a myriad of interpretations and emotions, inviting viewers to actively engage and participate in the creative process.Consider a painting depicting a serene landscape, bathed in warm hues and capturing the beauty of nature. While one viewer may immediately feel calm and at peace, another may be reminded of a cherished memory or evoke a sense of adventure. Here, the artist's depiction of the external world goes beyond a literal representation and becomes a conduit for various subjective experiences and interpretations, effectively establishing an emotional and intellectual connection with the viewer.In essence, Degas' quote reminds us that the true essence of art lies in its ability to evoke emotions and provoke thought. Art is not restricted to a superficial observation of the visible, but rather encourages viewers to explore untapped depths within themselves. Moreover, it highlights the communal aspect of art, creating a dialogue between artist and viewer and fostering connections between individuals through shared experiences.In conclusion, Edgar Degas' quote, "Art is not what you see, but what you make others see," presents a profound challenge to traditional notions of art. It calls upon artists to transcend superficial representation and delve into the realm of emotion and interpretation. By introducing the philosophical perspective of phenomenology, we gain a deeper understanding of the subjective nature of art, recognizing the vital role that viewers play in co-creating meaning and experiences. Ultimately, Degas' words encourage us to embrace the transformative power of art, as both creators and observers, and to cherish its ability to connect and inspire individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences.