Wyndham Lewis Quotes

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"I am a painter, not a preacher."

This quote suggests that Wyndham Lewis considered himself primarily an artist whose role was to create visual art (painting) rather than one who imparts moral or religious teachings (preaching). He valued the power of his artwork as a form of expression, rather than using it as a platform for sermons or lectures.

"Art never improves, it only develops. All the old masterpieces were once good enough to deceive the uneducated into thinking they were new."

This quote by Wyndham Lewis suggests that art is not a linear process of continuous improvement, but rather an evolutionary one. He implies that what was considered groundbreaking or innovative in the past might appear familiar or even old to those who are well-versed in the artistic tradition. In other words, new works do not always surpass the masterpieces of the past; instead, they build upon and extend the knowledge, techniques, and aesthetics that have been developed over time. The goal is not necessarily to outdo what has already been achieved, but to contribute to the ongoing development and expansion of art as a whole.

"The function of criticism is to keep us from admiring one another."

Wyndham Lewis's quote suggests that the role of criticism is to prevent blind adoration or admiration for others, thereby encouraging objective evaluation and discernment in our assessments of art, ideas, or people. It underscores the importance of maintaining a balanced perspective and questioning the status quo to foster growth and progress.

"If I had to choose between truth and the Egyptian cat, I would choose the cat."

Wyndham Lewis's quote, "If I had to choose between truth and the Egyptian cat, I would choose the cat," suggests a prioritization of aesthetics and whimsy over factual accuracy or rationality. It implies that beauty, symbolized by the Egyptian cat (often associated with ancient art and culture), holds more value than objective truth for Lewis. This quote can be interpreted as a commentary on the subjective nature of reality, where personal preferences or emotions guide one's choices.

"Art is a tree without a root: it is a superficial and self-supporting thing."

This quote by Wyndham Lewis suggests that art lacks a fundamental or essential basis, instead relying on its own self-generated ideas and concepts to sustain itself. He seems to imply that art exists independently of any deeper, external connection or influence, much like a tree without roots can still grow on the surface. However, this self-supporting nature of art may lead to shallow or superficial results, as it lacks the nourishment and depth provided by a strong foundation or root system in reality.