Meaning: Joshua Reynolds, a prominent 18th-century English painter and the first President of the Royal Academy of Arts, made this statement as a reflection of his views on the role of an artist in creating significant and impactful works of art. In this quote, Reynolds emphasizes the idea that simply replicating or imitating nature is not sufficient to achieve greatness in art. Instead, he suggests that true artistic greatness is achieved through a deeper and more profound interpretation and representation of the natural world.

Reynolds' assertion can be understood within the context of the artistic movements and philosophies of his time. During the 18th century, there was a growing interest in the concept of the "sublime" in art, which emphasized the ability of art to evoke intense emotions and experiences in the viewer. This shift in artistic thinking encouraged artists to move beyond mere imitation of nature and instead seek to capture the essence and emotional impact of the natural world in their work.

Reynolds' own artistic practice and teachings reflected his belief in the importance of imagination and creativity in the artistic process. He advocated for the idea that artists should not simply replicate what they see in nature, but rather use their skills to interpret and re-imagine the world around them. This approach allowed for the expression of individual creativity and vision, enabling artists to produce works that transcended mere imitation and achieved a deeper level of artistic significance.

Furthermore, Reynolds' quote can also be interpreted in the context of the ongoing debate between the concepts of mimesis and poiesis in art. Mimesis, derived from the Greek word for "imitation," refers to the representation or imitation of the external world in art. In contrast, poiesis, also rooted in Greek, pertains to the act of creation or the bringing forth of something original. Reynolds' statement aligns with the idea that true artistic greatness lies in the act of poiesis, in the artist's ability to create something new and meaningful rather than simply copying what already exists.

In the broader art historical context, Reynolds' quote resonates with the principles of the Romantic movement that emerged in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. This movement emphasized the importance of individual expression, emotion, and imagination in art, rejecting the notion that art should merely imitate the external world. Instead, Romantic artists sought to convey their own subjective experiences and interpretations of nature, often imbuing their works with a sense of emotional intensity and personal expression.

In conclusion, Joshua Reynolds' quote underscores the idea that true artistic greatness cannot be achieved through mere imitation of nature. Instead, it requires a deeper level of interpretation, imagination, and creative expression. By advocating for the role of imagination and creativity in art, Reynolds contributed to a broader shift in artistic thinking during his time and laid the groundwork for the emergence of new movements and philosophies that prioritized individual expression and emotional resonance in art.