Meaning: Edgar Degas, a prominent French artist, once said, "One must do the same subject over again ten times, a hundred times. In art nothing must resemble an accident, not even movement." This quote encapsulates the dedication and meticulous approach that Degas brought to his artistic practice. It reflects his belief in the importance of repetition and discipline in mastering a subject, as well as his commitment to capturing deliberate, purposeful movement in his work.

Degas was a leading figure in the Impressionist movement, known for his paintings, sculptures, and drawings that depicted scenes of modern urban life, particularly focusing on the world of ballet and the female figure. His dedication to his craft and his insistence on the importance of discipline and precision are evident in his body of work.

When Degas speaks of doing the same subject over and over again, he is emphasizing the value of repetition in artistic practice. By revisiting the same subject multiple times, an artist can delve deeper into its nuances, gaining a more profound understanding of its form and essence. This approach allows the artist to refine their technique, experiment with different interpretations, and ultimately achieve a more profound and nuanced portrayal of the subject.

The idea of repeating a subject "ten times, a hundred times" also speaks to the notion of perseverance and tenacity in the pursuit of artistic excellence. Degas understood that mastery is not achieved through a single attempt but rather through continuous effort and refinement. This mindset aligns with the traditional academic approach to art, where students would often practice by repeatedly drawing from plaster casts and live models, honing their skills through repetition.

Degas' insistence that "nothing must resemble an accident, not even movement" underscores his meticulous approach to capturing the essence of movement in his artwork. As a painter and a sculptor, he was deeply interested in the human form in motion, particularly the graceful and dynamic movements of the ballet dancers he depicted. For Degas, capturing movement was not about random or haphazard brushstrokes or gestures; it was about carefully observing and understanding the mechanics of movement and then skillfully translating that understanding onto the canvas or into sculptural form.

In his paintings of dancers, Degas demonstrated a remarkable ability to convey the fluidity and grace of their movements through precise and deliberate brushwork. He meticulously studied the positions and gestures of the dancers, often making numerous sketches and studies to capture the subtle nuances of their movements. Through this dedicated approach, he was able to create a sense of controlled spontaneity in his depictions of dance, capturing the essence of movement with a remarkable sense of authenticity.

Degas' emphasis on discipline and precision in art reflects his deep-seated belief in the importance of rigorous training and technical skill. His own artistic training was rooted in the academic tradition, and throughout his career, he maintained a strong commitment to mastering the fundamentals of drawing, composition, and form. This dedication to technical excellence allowed him to push the boundaries of artistic expression while maintaining a strong foundation in the principles of classical art.

In conclusion, Edgar Degas' quote encapsulates his dedication to artistic discipline and precision. By emphasizing the value of repetition, perseverance, and deliberate observation in capturing movement, he provides valuable insights into his artistic philosophy. Degas' relentless pursuit of mastery and his unwavering commitment to the meticulous portrayal of movement continue to inspire and resonate with artists and art enthusiasts alike, underscoring the enduring relevance of his artistic principles.