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Paul Mellon Quotes

Powerful Paul Mellon for Daily Growth

About Paul Mellon

Paul Mellon (March 29, 1907 – November 13, 1999) was an American philanthropist, art collector, and patron of the fine arts who significantly influenced the cultural landscape of both America and Britain. Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to wealthy parents, Mellon grew up amidst opulence but developed a deep appreciation for art that would shape his life's work. Mellon attended Yale University, where he studied art history. After graduating, he worked as a stockbroker on Wall Street before joining the U.S Army during World War II, where he served as an officer in Britain. His military service introduced him to British culture and further fueled his passion for art. Upon returning from war, Mellon dedicated himself to collecting art. He collaborated with his friend, the renowned art historian and collector, R.W. Gorski, forming one of the most significant collections of Old Master drawings in the world. His collection, which spanned six centuries, included works by artists like Rembrandt, Michelangelo, and Durer. Mellon was also a generous benefactor. He donated millions to various institutions, including Yale University, the National Gallery of Art in Washington D.C., and the British National Gallery. His philanthropy extended beyond art; he also contributed significantly to education, healthcare, and conservation efforts. In 1961, Mellon was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II for his services to Anglo-American relations and the arts. He continued to collect and donate art until his death in 1999. Paul Mellon's legacy lives on through his extraordinary collection, which continues to inspire generations of art lovers, and the institutions that carry forward his vision of promoting cultural understanding and appreciation. Some notable quotes by Paul Mellon include: - "Art is like a nice bike; it doesn't get any better once you buy it." - "The only way to do great work is to love what you do." - "Art is one of the few things that can be loved without fear."

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Art is a form of magic."

Paul Mellon's quote, "Art is a form of magic," implies that art possesses an enchanting, transformative power. Just as magic captivates our imagination and transcends the ordinary, so too does art challenge us to perceive the world in new ways. By using art, we can momentarily escape from the mundane, explore the depths of human emotion, or marvel at the beauty of creation. In essence, Mellon suggests that art has the power to evoke wonder and inspire awe, much like magic does.

"Collecting is a compulsion, like gambling."

This quote suggests that collecting art or other items can be an addictive behavior, similar to gambling. Both activities involve spending money in pursuit of items that bring pleasure, but can lead to excessive acquisition and potential financial risk. The underlying desire is often driven by a sense of passion or fascination, which can consume the collector's attention and resources.

"I don't collect art for investment. I collect art because I love it."

This quote by Paul Mellon emphasizes a genuine appreciation for art, not as a monetary asset, but for its inherent value and beauty. He prioritizes emotional attachment and passion over potential financial gains when it comes to collecting art. This perspective underscores the enjoyment and personal enrichment that comes from connecting with artistic creations, rather than viewing them solely through a business or investment lens.

"Every collector has his own story to tell and his own reasons for collecting."

This quote by Paul Mellon highlights the personal nature of collecting. It suggests that every collector has unique motivations and experiences driving their pursuit, be it intellectual curiosity, emotional attachment, or a desire to preserve history. The items amassed in the process are not merely objects, but significant fragments of each individual's story.

"I buy what I like, and if it increases in value, that's a bonus."

The quote emphasizes the concept of investing with passion rather than solely for financial gain. Here, Paul Mellon suggests that he purchases art or investments he personally enjoys, not just for potential profit. If these items appreciate in value, it is considered an added bonus to his initial enjoyment and appreciation of them. This approach can lead to a more fulfilling and satisfying investment experience compared to making decisions solely based on expected returns.

Preliminary drawings or sketches in oil or pastel often have an immediacy and emotional appeal far greater than the final canvas.

- Paul Mellon

Emotional, Canvas, Often, Immediacy

Within 18 months of my parents' marriage in 1900, my mother fell in love with an Englishman who would have described himself as a gentleman but who was, in fact, nothing more than a devious adventurer.

- Paul Mellon

Love, Devious, Months, Adventurer

In a way, my father was lucky. He had a hunch that his vision of the National Gallery would interest other collectors and persuade them to come in with him, and that hunch proved to be right.

- Paul Mellon

Father, Lucky, Other, Collectors

College isn't the only answer. Reading is a college that you can and should attend all your life.

- Paul Mellon

College, Answer, Attend, All Your Life

It was my father's hope, and it is ours, that the National Gallery would become not a static but a living institution, growing in usefulness and importance to artists, scholars and the general public.

- Paul Mellon

Living, Static, Usefulness, Scholars

Collecting is the sort of thing that creeps up on you.

- Paul Mellon

Sort, Up, Collecting, Creeps

There is no intellectual or emotional substitute for the authentic, the original, the unique masterpiece.

- Paul Mellon

Unique, Original, Emotional, Masterpiece

Just as there is no substitute for original works of art, there is no substitute for the world of direct sensual experience.

- Paul Mellon

Art, Original, Works, Substitute

When you give away large sums of money, you can cause as much damage as you may do good.

- Paul Mellon

Give, Away, Damage, Sums

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