Meaning: This quote by Canadian artist Emily Carr captures the essence of her artistic philosophy and the profound connection she felt with the natural world. It reflects Carr's deep reverence for the spiritual and emotional dimensions of the landscapes and indigenous cultures she portrayed in her work. Through her art, Carr sought to convey not just the factual representation of her subjects, but the profound and ineffable essence that lay beneath the surface.

In this quote, Carr emphasizes that there is a dimension of experience that transcends mere factual observation. She refers to this as "something bigger than fact," indicating that there is a deeper, more profound layer of meaning and significance that goes beyond the empirical details of a subject. This "underlying spirit" encompasses the intangible qualities that imbue a subject with its true essence and character. It encompasses the emotional resonance, the cultural significance, and the spiritual energy that infuse the subject with its unique presence.

Carr's reference to "the mood, the vastness, the wildness" further underscores her belief in the power of art to capture the intangible and elusive aspects of nature and human experience. She was particularly drawn to the rugged and untamed landscapes of the Pacific Northwest, finding inspiration in the raw, unbridled beauty of the natural world. For Carr, the "vastness" and "wildness" of the landscapes she painted were not just physical qualities, but manifestations of the spiritual and emotional forces that animated them.

Throughout her career, Emily Carr was deeply influenced by the indigenous cultures of the Pacific Northwest, particularly the First Nations peoples of British Columbia. She sought to capture not only the external appearance of totem poles, villages, and other cultural artifacts but also the enduring spirit and vitality of these ancient traditions. In doing so, Carr demonstrated her belief in the importance of preserving and honoring the cultural heritage of indigenous communities, recognizing that their traditions held a profound significance that transcended mere factual documentation.

Carr's quote also speaks to the transformative power of art. By focusing on the underlying spirit of her subjects, she sought to evoke a sense of wonder, awe, and reverence in her viewers. Her paintings were not just visual representations but invitations to connect with the deeper, more profound aspects of the natural and cultural worlds. Through her art, Carr endeavored to awaken a sense of empathy and understanding for the landscapes and cultures she depicted, fostering a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of all living things.

In summary, Emily Carr's quote encapsulates her belief in the transcendent power of art to capture the underlying spirit of the natural and cultural worlds. By emphasizing the significance of mood, vastness, and wildness, she underscores the importance of portraying the intangible qualities that give a subject its true meaning and essence. Through her art, Carr sought to convey not just the factual details but the profound emotional, spiritual, and cultural significance that infuses her subjects with their enduring vitality.