Georges Braque Quotes

Powerful Georges Braque for Daily Growth

About Georges Braque

Georges Braque (1882-1963), a pivotal figure in modern art, was born on August 13, 1882, in Argenteuil, France. Known for co-developing Cubism with Pablo Picasso, his work significantly influenced the course of 20th-century art. Braque spent his formative years in Le Havre, where he was exposed to a rich tapestry of seafaring life and folk traditions that left an indelible mark on his artistic sensibilities. He began drawing at an early age, and after a brief stint as an apprentice in a local decoration shop, he enrolled at École des Beaux-Arts in Le Havre in 1897. In 1900, Braque moved to Paris, where he met Picasso. Their friendship and artistic collaboration would lead to the birth of Cubism. Early works like "Houses at L'Estaque" (1908) demonstrated his innovative use of geometric forms and overlapping planes to depict scenes from reality in a fragmented, abstract manner. Braque served in World War I, an experience that deeply affected his artistic output. Post-war, he continued to explore Cubism, moving away from the bright colors of his earlier works towards a more muted palette. His later works, such as "Violin and Candlestick" (1910) and "The Portuguese" (1912), showcased his mastery of still life painting. In the 1930s, Braque turned towards Fauvism and Neo-Impressionist techniques, though always maintaining a distinctly Cubist approach to form and composition. He continued to paint until his death on August 31, 1963, leaving behind an indelible legacy in the world of modern art. Key quotes from Braque include: "Art is man's constant effort to create, beside technique and genius, a sort of extra quality (beauty), which moves by itself," and "Everything starts with a drawing."

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Art is a matter of feeling, not sight."

This quote by Georges Braque underscores the idea that art is more about emotional expression rather than merely replicating what the eye sees. It emphasizes the importance of the artist's personal interpretation and feelings in their creative process, suggesting that the power of art lies in its ability to evoke emotions in viewers beyond just visual representation.


"The function of the work of art is to bring man perpetually to the question: 'What is reality?'"

Georges Braque's quote suggests that art serves as a continuous catalyst for introspection, inviting individuals to contemplate and question the nature of reality itself. By engaging with artistic works, we are encouraged to challenge our perceptions, probe deeper into our understanding of existence, and ultimately foster personal growth and enlightenment.


"Every line I draw seeks to destroy the line I have just drawn."

This quote by Georges Braque reflects his approach to art, specifically cubism, where he intentionally challenges and disrupts the traditional representations of form and space. The line he draws represents a creative choice or an artistic decision. By drawing another line that destabilizes or contradicts the previous one, he is pushing the boundaries of conventional aesthetics, encouraging viewers to question their perceptions and engage more deeply with his work. This constant tension and interplay between lines creates a dynamic and thought-provoking experience for the audience.


"Nature is not an imitation but a citation."

This quote by Georges Braque suggests that artists don't aim to mimic nature, but rather to capture its essence or spirit, much like a scholar quotes from a text without merely repeating it verbatim. In other words, art is not about replicating the physical appearance of nature, but rather evoking the feelings and qualities that nature embodies. This approach allows for creativity, interpretation, and personal expression within the context of nature's influence.


"Art is the lie that makes us realize truth."

The quote by Georges Braque, "Art is the lie that makes us realize truth," suggests that art serves as a means to explore deeper realities beyond the confines of everyday experiences. This "lie" or fictional representation can stimulate introspection, provoke emotions, and ultimately lead individuals towards self-discovery and understanding of life's truths. In essence, art functions as an imaginative construct that helps us access and make sense of our own reality.


Art is made to disturb, science reassures.

- Georges Braque

Art, Science, Made, Disturb

Reality only reveals itself when it is illuminated by a ray of poetry.

- Georges Braque

Poetry, Only, Itself, Illuminated

Truth exists; only lies are invented.

- Georges Braque

Truth, Only, Exists, Invented

Once an object has been incorporated in a picture it accepts a new destiny.

- Georges Braque

Art, Destiny, New, Object

There is only one valuable thing in art: the thing you cannot explain.

- Georges Braque

Art, Only, Explain, Valuable

To define a thing is to substitute the definition for the thing itself.

- Georges Braque

Define, Itself, Thing, Definition

Painting is a nail to which I fasten my ideas.

- Georges Braque

Art, Painting, Which, Nail

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