Meaning: Franz Marc, a German painter and printmaker, was a key figure in the Expressionist movement of the early 20th century. The quote you provided reflects his belief in the importance of individual creativity and the independence of artists from prevailing styles and popular demands. In this quote, Marc suggests that serious art is the product of individual artists who create independently of the dominant style or the tastes of the masses. Instead, their work emerges as a response to or in defiance of their historical context.

Marc's assertion that serious art is the work of individual artists is a rejection of the notion that art should conform to prevailing styles or cater to popular tastes. Instead, he champions the idea of artistic integrity and the pursuit of personal expression. By emphasizing the role of the individual artist, Marc highlights the importance of authenticity and originality in the creation of art. In his view, serious art is not a product of conformity or adherence to external expectations but rather a reflection of the artist's inner vision and creative impulse.

Furthermore, Marc's assertion that serious art has "nothing to do with style" challenges the idea that art should be defined by specific aesthetic movements or trends. By divorcing serious art from the constraints of style, Marc opens up the possibility for a diverse range of artistic expressions that transcend conventional categorizations. This perspective aligns with the principles of Expressionism, a movement that sought to convey the emotional and psychological realities of the artist rather than adhering to a particular stylistic framework.

Additionally, Marc's statement that serious art arises "in defiance of their times" underscores the idea that true artistic innovation often emerges as a response to or rejection of prevailing norms and conventions. Throughout history, many groundbreaking artists have defied the expectations of their era and challenged established artistic traditions. By positioning serious art as a form of defiance, Marc emphasizes the disruptive and transformative potential of artistic expression, suggesting that it has the power to challenge and reshape the cultural landscape.

In the context of Marc's own artistic practice, this quote offers insight into his own approach to creativity. As a leading figure in the Expressionist movement, Marc prioritized the exploration of emotive and spiritual themes in his work, often using bold colors and dynamic forms to convey his inner vision. His rejection of strict stylistic conventions and his emphasis on individual expression align with the principles of Expressionism, a movement that valued subjective experience and emotional depth over adherence to external standards of beauty or representation.

In summary, Franz Marc's quote encapsulates his belief in the significance of individual artists and their capacity to create serious art that transcends stylistic conventions and societal expectations. By emphasizing the role of the artist's personal vision and the potential for art to defy its historical context, Marc's words resonate with the principles of artistic independence and originality. His perspective offers a compelling argument for the enduring importance of individual creativity and the transformative power of art.