Art is about forgetting all these feelings, good and bad, and trying to understand what acts will last longer, which symbols will remain in history. It's a question of perspective: The further you get from the past, the more concrete and plausible it seems.

In this quote, Maurizio Cattelan, an Italian contemporary artist known for his provocative works, reflects on the role of art in transcending the immediate emotional responses to life’s events. He suggests that art is not just about expressing feelings—whether good or bad—but about focusing on what acts or symbols will have lasting significance. The goal of art, in Cattelan’s view, is to create works that will stand the test of time, leaving a mark on history. This emphasizes the importance of creating something meaningful that outlives the fleeting nature of human emotions and experiences.

Cattelan's statement also highlights the perspective through which we view art and history. He points out that as we move further from the past, our understanding of it becomes more concrete and plausible, as we begin to see patterns, connections, and significance in events that may have once seemed transient. This suggests that, while art is often created in the moment, its true value and impact are only fully realized with the passage of time, allowing us to see its lasting relevance and influence.

The origin of this quote can be traced to Cattelan’s approach to art, where he often creates works that challenge societal norms and provoke thought, sometimes questioning the very concept of legacy and history. Known for his irreverent sculptures and installations, Cattelan’s work often explores the transience of life and fame, while also grappling with the notion of what will endure in the cultural memory.

Ultimately, Cattelan’s words suggest that art is not just about personal expression or immediate emotional impact, but about engaging with ideas, symbols, and actions that will leave a lasting imprint on history. By stepping back and viewing art through the lens of time, we begin to see which works have the potential to endure and resonate, becoming part of the cultural narrative long after their creation.