399
In the very end, civilizations perish because they listen to their politicians and not to their poets.
Van Jonas Mekas
Mekas, a prominent figure in avant-garde cinema and a fervent supporter of artistic freedom, frequently highlighted the value of creative voices over political discourse. He argued that when societies focus too much on political agendas and overlook the perspectives of poets and artists, they jeopardise their cultural and spiritual core. Mekas championed the idea that art should be seen as a crucial and guiding force for civilisations.
398
For an artist, to be normal is a disaster.
Van Jonas Mekas
Jonas Mekas, a Lithuanian-American filmmaker, poet and artist is known for his pioneering work in avant-garde cinema. Mekas's quote highlights his view that adhering to conformity and conventional norms goes against the essence of creativity. He believes that for artists, moving away from what is deemed 'normal' or mainstream is crucial for genuine artistic innovation and self-expression.