Meaning: Maxfield Parrish, an American painter and illustrator, expressed his disbelief in the popularity and highbrow appreciation of his work in the quote, "I don't know what people find or like in me, I'm hopelessly commonplace! Current appreciation of my work is a bit highbrow, I've always considered myself a popular artist." This quote reflects Parrish's humility and his perspective on his own artistic identity.

Parrish's self-deprecating remark about being "hopelessly commonplace" suggests that he viewed himself as unremarkable or ordinary, despite the recognition and admiration he received for his work. This sense of modesty is a recurring theme in Parrish's personal correspondence and interviews, where he often downplayed his own talent and the impact of his art.

Furthermore, his comment about the "current appreciation" of his work being "a bit highbrow" indicates his surprise at the elevated status his art had attained within artistic and intellectual circles. Parrish seemed to feel out of place or misunderstood in this context, as he considered himself a "popular artist" rather than one embraced primarily by the highbrow elite. This sentiment sheds light on Parrish's desire to connect with a broader audience and his discomfort with being pigeonholed into a specific category of art appreciation.

Maxfield Parrish's artistic career spanned the late 19th and early 20th centuries, during which time he gained widespread acclaim for his distinctive style and imaginative compositions. His work often featured dreamlike landscapes, vibrant colors, and idealized figures, creating a sense of escapism and enchantment for the viewer. Parrish's paintings, illustrations, and commercial art became highly sought after, and his images graced the covers of magazines, advertising campaigns, and even the walls of many homes.

Despite his popularity and commercial success, Parrish remained somewhat enigmatic and enigmatic to the public. His tendency to downplay his own talent and the perception of his work as "highbrow" may have been rooted in his desire to maintain a sense of relatability and accessibility to a broad audience. This approach aligns with his self-identification as a "popular artist," emphasizing his connection to the everyday individual rather than the rarefied world of art connoisseurs.

In hindsight, Maxfield Parrish's legacy as an artist has endured, and his work continues to captivate audiences across different backgrounds and levels of artistic appreciation. His ability to bridge the gap between commercial success and artistic merit speaks to his versatility and enduring appeal. While Parrish may have felt "hopelessly commonplace" or misunderstood in his time, his art has transcended these perceptions and found resonance with diverse audiences.

In conclusion, Maxfield Parrish's quote encapsulates his humility, his desire for widespread appeal, and his unease with being labeled as a highbrow artist. This insight into his mindset provides a deeper understanding of his artistic motivations and the enduring impact of his work. Despite Parrish's self-professed ordinariness, his legacy as a popular and influential artist remains undeniable, demonstrating the timeless allure of his imaginative creations.