Meaning: This quote by Buffy Sainte-Marie encapsulates the traditional divide between visual artists who work with cameras and those who use traditional mediums such as brushes and other tools to create art. It reflects a time when the distinction between photography and traditional visual art forms was more pronounced, and the two were often considered separate disciplines with distinct techniques and processes.

In the early days of visual art, the division between photographers and traditional artists was clear. Photographers used cameras to capture images, while traditional artists employed various materials and tools to create their works. The processes and techniques involved in these two approaches were fundamentally different, and practitioners of each discipline often identified strongly with their chosen medium.

The quote also hints at a shift in the art world, where the boundaries between different artistic practices are becoming increasingly blurred. With the advent of digital technology and the proliferation of new artistic tools and mediums, artists are no longer confined to traditional categories. This has led to a convergence of techniques and approaches, with many artists now incorporating elements of photography, digital manipulation, and traditional methods in their work.

Buffy Sainte-Marie, a renowned artist known for her work in music, visual art, and activism, may have been reflecting on her own experiences as a multidisciplinary artist. Her quote suggests that the dichotomy between photography and traditional visual art is outdated and no longer relevant in the contemporary artistic landscape. As artists continue to explore new ways of expression and push the boundaries of traditional practices, the distinction between different artistic disciplines becomes less defined.

Furthermore, the quote raises questions about the nature of art and the evolving role of technology in artistic creation. As artists embrace new tools and techniques, the traditional boundaries of artistic practice are being challenged and redefined. The quote encourages a reevaluation of how we perceive and categorize art, emphasizing the need for a more inclusive and expansive view of artistic expression.

In conclusion, Buffy Sainte-Marie's quote captures a moment of transition in the art world, where the traditional divide between photography and traditional visual art is giving way to a more integrated and interdisciplinary approach to artistic creation. It reflects the changing landscape of artistic practice and the ongoing evolution of the relationship between technology and art. As artists continue to push the boundaries of traditional mediums and embrace new tools and methods, the distinction between different artistic disciplines becomes increasingly fluid, paving the way for a more diverse and inclusive artistic landscape.

This quote serves as a reminder of the evolving nature of art and the need to embrace a more expansive and open-minded perspective on artistic practice. It encourages us to celebrate the diversity of artistic expression and recognize the interconnectedness of different artistic disciplines, ultimately enriching the creative landscape with new possibilities and perspectives.