Meaning: The quote "It is the addition of strangeness to beauty that constitutes the romantic character in art" by Walter Hagen, a renowned athlete, encapsulates an essential concept in the realm of art and aesthetics. This quote reflects the idea that the juxtaposition of the familiar and the unfamiliar, the beautiful and the strange, is what gives art its romantic and captivating quality. By delving into the meaning and implications of this quote, we can gain a deeper understanding of the romantic character in art and its significance in the creative process.

The notion of adding strangeness to beauty speaks to the idea that art is not solely about representing the conventional or the expected. Instead, it involves introducing elements of surprise, mystery, and ambiguity that challenge the viewer's perceptions and evoke emotions. This element of strangeness can manifest in various forms, such as surreal imagery, unexpected juxtapositions, or unconventional perspectives. It is this infusion of the unexpected and the enigmatic that breathes life into a work of art, inviting the audience to contemplate and interpret its meaning.

Furthermore, the quote suggests that the romantic character in art is not merely about depicting idealized scenes or subjects. Rather, it is about embracing the complexities and contradictions inherent in the human experience. The romantic character in art seeks to capture the essence of emotion, passion, and imagination, transcending the boundaries of realism to evoke a deeper, more profound response from the viewer. It is through the infusion of strangeness that art can transcend the ordinary and transport the audience into a realm of heightened sensibility and enchantment.

In the context of art history, the concept of romanticism has been a significant movement that embodies the sentiments expressed in the quote. Emerging in the late 18th century, romanticism rebelled against the rationalism and order of the Enlightenment, emphasizing the power of emotion, individuality, and the sublime in artistic expression. Artists such as William Blake, Caspar David Friedrich, and Eugène Delacroix embraced the unconventional and the mysterious in their works, seeking to evoke a sense of wonder and awe in their audiences.

The idea of adding strangeness to beauty also resonates with the broader philosophical underpinnings of art. It aligns with the notion of the uncanny, a concept explored by Sigmund Freud, which refers to the simultaneous familiar and unfamiliar nature of certain experiences. Art that incorporates the uncanny can evoke feelings of unease and fascination, challenging the viewer's perceptions and inviting them to confront the unknown aspects of the human psyche.

Moreover, the quote by Walter Hagen, an athlete known for his prowess in golf, offers a unique perspective on the intersection of art and sport. It suggests that the principles of creativity and innovation extend beyond the realm of traditional artistic expression and can be found in the pursuit of excellence in athletic endeavors. Just as art seeks to imbue beauty with strangeness, athletes may seek to infuse their performances with an element of surprise, unpredictability, and artistry, elevating their achievements to a realm of heightened aesthetic experience.

In conclusion, Walter Hagen's quote encapsulates the essence of the romantic character in art by emphasizing the importance of adding strangeness to beauty. It underscores the transformative power of art to transcend the ordinary, evoke emotions, and provoke contemplation. Through the infusion of strangeness, art can captivate and enchant, inviting viewers to explore the depths of human experience and imagination. This quote serves as a timeless reminder of the enduring allure and impact of art that defies convention and embraces the enigmatic and the extraordinary.