Meaning:
The quote "Light comes to us by the sensibility. Without visual sensibility there is no light, no movement." by Robert Delaunay, a French artist, is a profound statement that reflects the artist's philosophy on the interplay between light, perception, and art. Delaunay was a prominent figure in the early 20th-century art movement known as Orphism, which focused on the use of bold colors and geometric shapes to convey the dynamism and rhythm of modern life. This quote encapsulates his belief in the essential role of visual perception in experiencing and interpreting light and movement.
In the context of art, Delaunay's quote suggests that light, as a fundamental element of visual art, is not merely a physical phenomenon but is intricately linked to the viewer's sensibility or perception. The artist's use of color, form, and composition is imbued with the understanding that light is not static, but rather is perceived and experienced subjectively through the viewer's sensibility. This idea aligns with the broader artistic movement of Orphism, which sought to capture the dynamic and multifaceted nature of modern existence through the expressive use of color and form.
Furthermore, Delaunay's emphasis on visual sensibility as the conduit through which light and movement are apprehended speaks to the interconnectedness of the sensory experience and artistic expression. In his work, he employed vibrant, contrasting colors and geometric abstractions to evoke a sense of energy and movement, inviting the viewer to engage with the artwork on a sensory and perceptual level. This approach reflects Delaunay's belief that the viewer's sensibility is integral to the manifestation of light and movement within the artistic context.
Beyond the realm of art, Delaunay's quote can also be interpreted in a broader philosophical and scientific context. It alludes to the idea that our perception of light and movement is contingent upon our sensory faculties, particularly our visual sensibility. This concept resonates with the fields of psychology and neuroscience, which examine the intricate mechanisms by which the human brain processes and interprets visual stimuli, including light and motion. Delaunay's quote underscores the notion that our experience of the world is shaped by our sensory perception, and that light and movement are fundamentally intertwined with our subjective apprehension of reality.
In summary, Robert Delaunay's quote "Light comes to us by the sensibility. Without visual sensibility there is no light, no movement." encapsulates his profound understanding of the interplay between perception, light, and movement. Within the context of art, it highlights the role of the viewer's sensibility in experiencing and interpreting light and movement within artistic expression. Moreover, the quote resonates with broader philosophical and scientific considerations regarding the subjective nature of perception and the ways in which our sensory faculties shape our understanding of the world. Delaunay's words serve as a reminder of the profound connection between our sensory experience and the manifestations of light and movement in art and in life.