Jerry Saltz: 'Money is something that can be measured art is not. It's all subjective.'

Money is something that can be measured art is not. It's all subjective.

In a world where value is often equated with financial worth, Jerry Saltz's quote, "Money is something that can be measured, art is not. It's all subjective," serves as a poignant reminder of the intangible nature of artistic expression. This quote encapsulates the idea that art cannot be quantified or given a definitive value, as its impact is subjective and varied for each individual. While we live in a society driven by economic markers, Saltz's words challenge us to reconsider how we assign worth and value to artistic endeavors.Art, in its essence, defies measurement. It surpasses the confines of physical or monetary evaluation, transcending boundaries in its ability to evoke emotions, provoke thoughts, and inspire change. By acknowledging the inherent subjectivity of art, Saltz emphasizes the deeply personal and emotional response that it elicits in each viewer. What may resonate with one person may leave another entirely unaffected, highlighting the unique and individualistic nature of art appreciation.Contrary to art's subjective nature, money is a concrete and quantifiable medium of exchange. It holds a measurable value that can be universally recognized and used as a means of acquiring goods and services. In a capitalist society, financial success often becomes synonymous with societal value, leading to the commodification of art. But Saltz's assertion forces us to question the validity of this association.In delving deeper into the quote's underlying themes, one can introduce the philosophical concept of existentialism to further ignite interest in this discourse. Existentialism, a philosophical school of thought that emerged in the 19th and 20th centuries, explores the individual's existence, freedom, and subjective experience in an otherwise meaningless universe. Drawing parallels between Saltz's quote and existentialism allows for a richer exploration of the multifaceted meaning behind both art and individual perception.Existentialism encourages us to confront the absurdity of existence and the fundamental question of meaning. Similarly, the subjective nature of art demands that we confront our own interpretations and confrontations with the artwork. Both delve into the depths of individual experience and introspection, challenging preconceived notions and provoking intellectual and emotional growth.The connection between Saltz's quote and existentialism brings forth a crucial question: Can we truly assign value to art when its essence lies in its subjective interpretation? Existentialism reminds us that meaning is a construct derived from our personal experiences and beliefs. Thus, each person's encounter with a work of art becomes an act of co-creation, where the artist's intention interweaves with the viewer's subjectivity to shape meaning.The convergence of art and existentialism invites us to consider the fluidity of human experience and the interconnectedness of our interpretations. It urges us to engage with art beyond its monetary value, to embrace the inherent subjectivity that lies at its core. By transcending the confines of measurement, we open ourselves up to a world of boundless creativity, interpretation, and appreciation.In conclusion, Jerry Saltz's quote, "Money is something that can be measured, art is not. It's all subjective," challenges our societal obsession with assigning monetary value to art. It reminds us of the intangible and immeasurable impact that art has on individuals, emphasizing the subjective nature of interpretation and meaning. By exploring the philosophical concept of existentialism alongside Saltz's quote, we are urged to reevaluate the value we place on art and to embrace the personal and transformative experiences it offers. In doing so, we unlock the true power of art and reaffirm its ability to transcend the limitations of measurement.