Art is skill, that is the first meaning of the word.
Meaning of the quote
Art is all about having the right skills. That's what the word "art" really means. Whether it's painting, sculpting, or any other kind of creative work, being skilled at it is the most important part. The quote is saying that being skilled is the very first and most basic definition of what art is.
About Eric Gill
Eric Gill was an English artist known for his work as a sculptor, letter cutter, typeface designer, and printmaker. He was a controversial figure due to revelations about his sexual abuse of family members. Gill was a member of the Fabian Society and the Third Order of Saint Dominic, and he established several craft communities with a focus on manual labor.
More quotes from Eric Gill
Art is skill, that is the first meaning of the word.
English sculptor, typeface designer, and printmaker (1882-1940)
Science is analytical, descriptive, informative. Man does not live by bread alone, but by science he attempts to do so. Hence the deadliness of all that is purely scientific.
English sculptor, typeface designer, and printmaker (1882-1940)
Without philosophy man cannot know what he makes; without religion he cannot know why.
English sculptor, typeface designer, and printmaker (1882-1940)