We learned how to look at art from religion.

In this quote, Grayson Perry suggests that the way we perceive and interpret art has been shaped significantly by religion. Historically, religion has played a central role in the creation and appreciation of art, especially in the Western world. Religious institutions were often the primary patrons of the arts, commissioning works that depicted biblical stories, saints, and sacred symbols. Perry is acknowledging that much of the framework we use to analyze and appreciate art today is rooted in religious traditions, which established certain aesthetic values, symbols, and themes that persist in contemporary art.

Perry’s remark also points to the way religion has influenced our understanding of meaning and symbolism in visual culture. In religious art, the depiction of divinity, morality, and spirituality has historically been intertwined with artistic expression. The interpretation of such works often requires a grasp of religious narratives, iconography, and the sacred significance of images. Through this lens, Perry suggests that our capacity to "look" at art—our ability to decipher its deeper meanings and symbolism—has been nurtured by the religious frameworks that have shaped our understanding of the world.

The origin of this quote likely stems from Perry’s broader work and interest in the intersection of culture, identity, and art. As a contemporary artist known for addressing themes like identity, gender, and society, Perry often reflects on how historical and cultural contexts influence the way people see and value art. By pointing out the influence of religion on art, Perry invites us to reflect on the ways cultural institutions have historically shaped artistic traditions and human perception.

Ultimately, Perry’s comment serves as a reminder of how deeply intertwined art and religion have been throughout history. It encourages us to consider how much our modern aesthetic sensibilities, interpretations, and even the emotional and spiritual impact of art may have been shaped by religious practices and their emphasis on visual representation of sacred ideas. Through this lens, we can see that the relationship between art and religion is not just historical but continues to influence the ways we engage with visual culture today.