The reward of art is not fame or success but intoxication: that is why so many bad artists are unable to give it up

The reward of art is not fame or success but intoxication: that is why so many bad artists are unable to give it up

Jean Cocteau, a French artist known for his work in various mediums such as poetry, literature, film, and visual arts, understood the intoxicating nature of creating art. He believed that the true reward of art was not fame or success, but rather the intoxication that comes from the act of creation itself. This belief is evident in his prolific body of work and his dedication to his craft throughout his life.

Cocteau was a true Renaissance man, constantly exploring new artistic avenues and pushing the boundaries of traditional art forms. He was a poet, playwright, novelist, filmmaker, and visual artist, and his work often blurred the lines between these different mediums. His innovative approach to art and his willingness to experiment with new techniques and styles set him apart from his contemporaries and established him as a visionary in the world of art.

For Cocteau, creating art was a form of self-expression and a way to explore the depths of his own psyche. He believed that art had the power to transcend the limitations of language and communicate on a deeper, more primal level. This belief is reflected in his surreal and dreamlike imagery, his use of symbolism and metaphor, and his exploration of themes such as love, death, and the human condition.

Despite his success and acclaim as an artist, Cocteau remained humble and dedicated to his craft. He understood that the true reward of art was not external validation or recognition, but rather the internal satisfaction that comes from the act of creation itself. This intoxicating feeling of being lost in the creative process, of losing oneself in the flow of inspiration and imagination, was what drove Cocteau to continue creating art throughout his life.