From time immemorial artistic insights have been revealed to artists in their sleep and in dreams, so that at all times they ardently desired them.

In this quote, Paracelsus suggests that artistic insights and creative ideas have long been inspired by the unconscious mind, particularly through sleep and dreams. He emphasizes that for artists, the realm of dreams has historically been a source of inspiration and deep revelation. The phrase "from time immemorial" implies that this connection between art and dreams has existed throughout history, showing how the unconscious mind has always been a key part of the creative process. Paracelsus seems to suggest that artists have always longed for these visions or insights, which appear to them in the mysterious state of dreaming.

The quote reflects the idea that creativity and art are often born from sources beyond the conscious mind. Dreams, as a space where the usual constraints of reality are suspended, can offer unexpected connections, new ideas, and profound revelations. Paracelsus, known for his work in alchemy and medicine, aligns with this view of the dream world as a place of mystery and potential for artistic discovery. His statement highlights how dreams and the unconscious mind have been valued as essential tools for artistic expression throughout history.

Paracelsus’ recognition of dreams as a source of artistic insight aligns with the broader tradition of romanticism and the mystical understanding of the mind. Many artists and thinkers have believed that the mind's creative potential is most fully realized when it is not confined to the rational, waking state. The notion that dreams offer a gateway to deeper truths is common in various artistic and philosophical traditions, from the works of Surrealists to Renaissance thinkers.

Ultimately, Paracelsus’ quote emphasizes the mystical and inspirational nature of dreams in the creative process. It highlights the timeless connection between art and the unconscious, suggesting that artists throughout history have long recognized the power of dreams to unlock new and profound artistic expressions.