Meaning: Norman McLaren, a renowned Scottish-born Canadian animator, director, and producer, has left a powerful legacy in the world of visual arts and cinema. The quote, "And so my militant philosophy is this: to make with a brush on canvas is a simple direct delight-to make with the movie is the same," encapsulates his profound belief in the intrinsic joy and simplicity of creating art, whether through traditional means like painting or through the dynamic medium of film.

McLaren's reference to a "militant philosophy" in the context of art creation is an intriguing choice of words. It suggests a determined, unwavering commitment to a particular approach or belief. In this case, McLaren's militant philosophy revolves around the idea that the act of creation—whether it be through painting or filmmaking—is characterized by a sense of directness and delight. This philosophy reflects McLaren's deep passion for artistic expression and his belief in the fundamental joy of the creative process.

The first part of the quote, "to make with a brush on canvas is a simple direct delight," highlights McLaren's reverence for the traditional art form of painting. The tactile experience of applying paint to canvas, the direct interaction with the materials, and the unmediated connection between the artist's hand and the surface all contribute to the simple, direct delight that McLaren describes. He emphasizes the immediate and tangible nature of this artistic process, suggesting that it brings about a pure and uncomplicated joy.

The second part of the quote, "to make with the movie is the same," extends McLaren's philosophy to the realm of filmmaking. As a pioneering figure in the field of animation, McLaren revolutionized the medium through his innovative techniques and experimental approach. He believed that the process of creating animation and film could evoke the same sense of simple, direct delight as painting on canvas. This perspective challenges the notion of filmmaking as a complex, multi-layered endeavor and instead emphasizes the potential for immediate, unadulterated joy in the act of crafting moving images.

McLaren's comparison of painting and filmmaking underscores his belief in the universality of artistic joy across different mediums. Whether working with a brush or a camera, McLaren saw the act of creation as a deeply fulfilling and straightforward endeavor. His philosophy speaks to the essence of artistry, emphasizing the intrinsic pleasure that comes from bringing imagination to life, regardless of the specific tools or techniques involved.

Norman McLaren's legacy continues to inspire contemporary artists and filmmakers, reminding them of the fundamental joy inherent in the act of creation. His militant philosophy serves as a rallying cry for embracing the simplicity and delight of artistic expression, whether on canvas or on the screen. It encourages creators to tap into the immediate, unfiltered pleasure of making art, transcending the complexities and challenges that often accompany the creative process.

In conclusion, Norman McLaren's quote encapsulates his militant philosophy of finding simple, direct delight in the act of creation, whether through painting or filmmaking. It reflects his deep-seated passion for artistic expression and serves as a timeless reminder of the intrinsic joy that lies at the heart of all creative endeavors. McLaren's profound belief in the universal nature of artistic pleasure continues to resonate with artists and audiences, reaffirming the enduring power of creativity in all its forms.