“A work of art is the statement of one man. It is one of the noblest, because it is one of the most selfless activities of human existence. It has nothing to do with an audience or a wish to please. It does not necessarily entertain, instruct or enlighten. It can do any one or all of these things, but that it should is not the artist’s concern. That is the work of art in its perfect state. The thing is there: an audience taking from it what it can. It is not the artist’s job to simplify the means of communication.”
John Whiting, At Ease in a Bright Red Tie: Writings on Theatre (courtesy of George Hunka)
Terry Teachout on the arts in New York City
An ArtsJournal Blog