Meaning: Otto Dix, a German painter and printmaker, made a profound statement with the quote, "Everybody thinks they know what art should be. But very few of them have the sense that is necessary to experience painting, that is the sense of sight, that sees colors and forms as living reality in the picture." In this quote, Dix challenges the common perception of art and highlights the importance of truly experiencing painting through the sense of sight.

Dix's assertion reflects the ongoing debate and diversity of opinions surrounding the definition and understanding of art. Throughout history, there have been numerous theories and perspectives on what constitutes art and what its purpose should be. This diversity of viewpoints has led to a wide range of artistic movements, styles, and forms of expression. However, Dix's statement suggests that despite the multitude of opinions, the ability to truly experience and appreciate painting requires a specific sensory perception – the sense of sight.

The quote emphasizes the significance of the visual aspect of art and the ability to perceive colors and forms as a living reality within a painting. Dix's words underscore the idea that to fully understand and appreciate art, one must possess the ability to engage with the visual elements in a profound and meaningful way. This challenges the notion that art can be superficially understood or judged without a deep and genuine sensory experience.

By highlighting the importance of the sense of sight in experiencing painting, Dix draws attention to the immersive and sensory nature of visual art. He suggests that true appreciation of painting goes beyond mere intellectual understanding or preconceived notions of what art should be. Instead, he advocates for the active engagement of the viewer's sense of sight to perceive the vibrant colors and dynamic forms within a painting as a living reality.

Dix's perspective also raises questions about the role of the viewer in the artistic experience. He implies that the act of viewing art is an active and participatory process that necessitates a keen and sensitive perception of the visual elements present in a painting. This challenges the passive role often attributed to viewers and encourages a more immersive and sensory approach to engaging with art.

Furthermore, the quote can be seen as a reflection of Dix's own artistic practice and his emphasis on the visual impact of his work. As a prominent figure in the Neue Sachlichkeit (New Objectivity) movement, Dix was known for his realistic and often brutally honest portrayals of society and the human condition. His focus on the visual representation of reality aligns with his statement about the necessity of experiencing painting through the sense of sight.

In conclusion, Otto Dix's quote encapsulates the idea that true appreciation of painting requires the active engagement of the sense of sight to perceive colors and forms as living reality in the picture. It challenges the superficial understanding of art and emphasizes the immersive and sensory nature of the artistic experience. Dix's words serve as a reminder of the importance of genuine and profound engagement with the visual elements of painting, encouraging viewers to approach art with a heightened sense of perception and appreciation.