Meaning: Maya Lin, an American architect and artist, is best known for her work as the designer of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. The quote "It terrified me to have an idea that was solely mine to be no longer a part of my mind, but totally public" reflects the intense emotions and vulnerability that an artist or creator experiences when their work is shared with the public.

When an idea is solely one's own, it exists in the private realm of the mind, where it is nurtured, refined, and protected. It is a deeply personal and intimate part of the creator's identity. However, when that idea is brought into the public sphere, it becomes subject to scrutiny, interpretation, and criticism. This transition from private to public can be a daunting and anxiety-inducing experience for many artists and creators.

For Maya Lin, whose design for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial was selected through a public competition, the quote likely reflects her personal struggle with the exposure of her deeply emotional and symbolic design to the public. The Vietnam Veterans Memorial, with its reflective black granite walls inscribed with the names of those who lost their lives in the war, is a poignant and powerful tribute. Lin's design was met with both acclaim and controversy, reflecting the deeply personal and public nature of the memorial.

The quote also speaks to the fear of loss of control that comes with sharing one's ideas with the public. When an idea is no longer solely within the creator's mind, it takes on a life of its own, open to interpretation and manipulation by others. This loss of control can be unsettling, as the creator's original intent may be distorted or misunderstood. However, it is also a necessary part of the creative process, as art and ideas are meant to be shared, discussed, and experienced by a wider audience.

In the context of architecture and public art, the quote highlights the vulnerability and courage required to create work that will be experienced and critiqued by the public. Lin's reflection on the public nature of her ideas speaks to the universal experience of artists and creators who grapple with the tension between sharing their work and protecting their creative vision.

The quote also raises questions about the nature of public art and the responsibility of the artist to the audience. When an idea becomes public, it becomes part of a larger dialogue, impacting the collective consciousness and memory of society. The Vietnam Veterans Memorial, for example, has become a site of pilgrimage and remembrance for countless visitors, shaping their understanding of the Vietnam War and its human cost. As such, the quote invites contemplation on the power and impact of public art, and the enduring legacy of ideas that are shared with the world.

In conclusion, Maya Lin's quote encapsulates the complex emotions and challenges that artists and creators face when their private ideas become public. It speaks to the vulnerability, fear, and loss of control that come with sharing one's creative vision, as well as the transformative power of art in the public sphere. The quote invites us to consider the profound impact of public art and the enduring legacy of ideas that are brought into the public consciousness.