Art is not a pastime but a priesthood

Art is not a pastime but a priesthood

Jean Cocteau, a French artist, writer, and filmmaker, once famously said, "Art is not a pastime but a priesthood." This statement encapsulates the deep reverence and dedication that Cocteau believed was necessary in the pursuit of artistic creation. For Cocteau, art was not simply a hobby or a way to pass the time; it was a sacred calling that required a level of commitment and devotion akin to that of a priest.

Cocteau's own life and work exemplified this belief in the sacred nature of art. Throughout his career, he explored a wide range of artistic mediums, including poetry, painting, theater, and film. He approached each of these disciplines with a sense of reverence and seriousness, viewing them not as mere forms of entertainment or self-expression, but as channels through which he could communicate profound truths and insights about the human experience.