Of course, there will always be those who look only at technique, who ask ‘how’, while others of a more curious nature will ask ‘why’. Personally, I have always preferred inspiration to information.
Meaning of the quote
Some people only focus on learning the steps or methods to do something, and they ask "how" to do it. But others, who are more curious, want to know the reasons behind why things are done that way. The photographer Man Ray says he has always preferred to be inspired rather than just having information.
About Man Ray
Man Ray was an American visual artist who spent most of his career in Paris. He was a significant contributor to the Dada and Surrealist movements, and was best known for his pioneering photography and fashion/portrait work. He is also noted for his work with photograms, which he called “rayographs” in reference to himself.
More quotes from Man Ray
All critics should be assassinated.
American artist and photographer (1890-1976)
I photograph the things that I do not wish to paint, the things which already have an existence.
American artist and photographer (1890-1976)
An original is a creation motivated by desire. Any reproduction of an originals motivated be necessity. It is marvelous that we are the only species that creates gratuitous forms. To create is divine, to reproduce is human.
American artist and photographer (1890-1976)
Don’t put my name on it. These are simply documents I make.
American artist and photographer (1890-1976)
I paint what cannot be photographed, that which comes from the imagination or from dreams, or from an unconscious drive.
American artist and photographer (1890-1976)
Of course, there will always be those who look only at technique, who ask ‘how’, while others of a more curious nature will ask ‘why’. Personally, I have always preferred inspiration to information.
American artist and photographer (1890-1976)
One of the satisfactions of a genius is his will-power and obstinacy.
American artist and photographer (1890-1976)
To me, a painter, if not the most useful, is the least harmful member of our society.
American artist and photographer (1890-1976)
A creator needs only one enthusiast to justify him.
American artist and photographer (1890-1976)
It has never been my object to record my dreams, just the determination to realize them.
American artist and photographer (1890-1976)