Meaning: The quote "Great art is the contempt of a great man for small art" by F. Fitzgerald is a thought-provoking statement that can be interpreted in various ways. At its core, the quote seems to convey the idea that truly exceptional or masterful art is not concerned with or influenced by lesser or minor forms of art. It suggests that a truly great artist or individual who possesses significant talent and vision will not be preoccupied with the mundane or trivial aspects of artistic expression.

One interpretation of this quote is that it speaks to the mindset and attitude of a truly great artist. A great artist, in this context, could be someone who has achieved a high level of skill, creativity, and originality in their work. Such an artist may view their own creations and the works of other accomplished artists as worthy of attention and admiration, while dismissing or disregarding art that is perceived as lacking in depth, innovation, or significance.

From another perspective, the quote could be seen as a commentary on the hierarchy and value placed on different forms of art. It suggests that the discerning eye of a great man, or a person of refined taste and judgment, will naturally gravitate towards art that is ambitious, profound, and impactful, while dismissing art that is derivative, superficial, or lacking in substance. This could be seen as a reflection of the idea that truly exceptional art transcends the limitations of conventional or popular taste and sets a higher standard for artistic excellence.

In the context of artistic movements and historical periods, the quote could be seen as a reflection of the mindset of certain influential figures who have sought to challenge and redefine the boundaries of artistic expression. Throughout history, there have been artists and cultural figures who have advocated for the elevation of art to a higher plane, rejecting the constraints of tradition and convention in favor of bold experimentation and innovation. This mindset aligns with the idea that great art is not content to dwell in the realm of the familiar or the ordinary, but seeks to push the boundaries of what is possible and meaningful in artistic creation.

It's worth noting that the quote also raises questions about the nature of artistic judgment and the criteria by which art is evaluated. Who gets to decide what constitutes "great art" versus "small art"? Is it purely a matter of individual taste and preference, or are there universal principles that govern the distinction between the two? These are complex and subjective questions that have been the subject of much debate and discussion within the fields of art criticism and aesthetics.

In conclusion, the quote "Great art is the contempt of a great man for small art" by F. Fitzgerald invites contemplation on the nature of artistic greatness, the discerning eye of the artist or connoisseur, and the values and standards that shape our understanding of art. It challenges us to consider what sets truly exceptional art apart from the rest and prompts us to reflect on the qualities and attributes that define artistic excellence.