Art is not what you see, but what you make others see

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see

Edgar Degas, a renowned French artist, is often credited with the quote, "Art is not what you see, but what you make others see." This statement perfectly encapsulates Degas' approach to his art and his unique ability to capture the essence of his subjects in a way that goes beyond mere representation.

Degas was a master of capturing movement and emotion in his work, particularly in his depictions of dancers. His ballet dancers are not just static figures on a stage, but living, breathing beings caught in a moment of grace and beauty. Through his use of light, color, and composition, Degas was able to convey the energy and passion of the dancers, inviting viewers to see beyond the surface and into the heart of the performance.

One of Degas' most famous works, "The Dance Class," is a perfect example of his ability to make others see more than meets the eye. In this painting, Degas depicts a group of ballet dancers in a rehearsal studio, each one lost in their own world of concentration and movement. The viewer is not just a passive observer, but a participant in the scene, able to feel the tension and excitement of the dancers as they prepare for their performance.

Degas' use of unconventional angles and perspectives also adds to the depth and complexity of his work. In his series of paintings of women bathing, Degas captures intimate moments of vulnerability and self-reflection, inviting viewers to see beyond the surface and into the inner thoughts and emotions of his subjects.

Overall, Degas' art is a testament to the power of interpretation and perception in the creative process. By challenging viewers to look beyond the obvious and see the world through his eyes, Degas invites us to engage with his work on a deeper level and discover new layers of meaning and beauty. In this way, Degas truly embodies the idea that art is not just about what you see, but what you make others see.