Art is Art. Everything else is everything else

Art is Art. Everything else is everything else

Ad Reinhardt was a prominent American abstract artist known for his minimalist black paintings and his strong beliefs about the purity of art. One of his most famous quotes is "Art is Art. Everything else is everything else," which encapsulates his philosophy on the nature of art and its place in the world.

Reinhardt believed that true art should be free from any external influences or distractions. He saw art as a pure form of expression that should exist for its own sake, separate from politics, commercialism, or any other outside forces. In his view, art should be a reflection of the artist's inner vision and should not be compromised by the demands of society or the art market.

Reinhardt's black paintings, which he began creating in the late 1950s, are a perfect example of his commitment to the purity of art. These paintings consist of simple geometric shapes painted in shades of black, with subtle variations in tone and texture that create a sense of depth and mystery. By using only black paint, Reinhardt eliminated all distractions and focused solely on the interplay of light and form, creating a meditative and contemplative experience for the viewer.

Reinhardt's black paintings have been interpreted in many different ways, with some critics seeing them as a commentary on the limitations of perception and others as a reflection of the artist's spiritual beliefs. Regardless of the specific interpretation, it is clear that these paintings are a powerful statement on the nature of art and its ability to transcend the limitations of the physical world.