Computers let people avoid people, going out to explore. It's so different to just open a website instead of looking at a Picasso in a museum in Paris.

Raf Simons’ quote reflects on the impact of computers and technology on human experiences, particularly how it changes the way people engage with the world. He contrasts the convenience of opening a website to explore information with the immersive experience of physically visiting a museum to see a Picasso in Paris. Simons is pointing out that computers allow people to avoid direct interaction and exploration, opting instead for a more passive, virtual experience that can lack the richness and depth of real-world encounters.

Simons suggests that the ability to access information from the comfort of one’s home through a computer changes how people engage with art and culture. While browsing a website may offer convenience, it doesn’t offer the same visceral experience as standing in front of a Picasso in person, where one can feel the scale, texture, and emotional impact of the piece. His quote highlights the difference between digital and physical engagement, emphasizing how technology can provide easy access but can’t fully replicate the depth of real-world experiences.

The quote also reflects on a broader cultural shift, where technology is increasingly replacing physical experiences with digital alternatives. Computers and the internet offer incredible access to knowledge and culture, but they also contribute to a more isolated and less interactive way of experiencing the world. Simons seems to be lamenting how virtual encounters, while valuable, can’t replace the richness of engaging directly with art, culture, and people in the real world.

Raf Simons, a fashion designer known for his avant-garde approach to design and his ability to bridge art, fashion, and culture, often reflects on the intersection of technology and human experience in his work. This quote likely stems from his observations on how computers and digital experiences have transformed the way people interact with creativity and art. Simons’ perspective is a reminder that while technology brings many benefits, it also changes the way we connect with the world around us.