Meaning: This quote by the renowned artist Sol LeWitt reflects his opinion on the influence of John Cage's thinking and its derivation from Marcel Duchamp and the Dada movement. In order to understand the significance of this quote, it is essential to delve into the context of the artists mentioned and their impact on the art world.

Marcel Duchamp was a pioneering figure in the early 20th century art scene, known for challenging traditional notions of art and authorship. He is perhaps best known for his creation of the readymade, a concept that involved taking ordinary, mass-produced objects and presenting them as art. This revolutionary approach to art laid the groundwork for the Dada movement, a cultural and artistic movement that emerged in the early 20th century in response to the horrors of World War I. Dada artists sought to reject traditional aesthetic values and embrace the absurd, the irrational, and the nonsensical in their work.

John Cage, an influential American composer and music theorist, is often associated with the avant-garde movement and is widely known for his experimental approach to music and sound. Cage's compositions often incorporated elements of chance and indeterminacy, reflecting his interest in breaking away from traditional forms and structures. His ideas were heavily influenced by Duchamp and Dada, as he embraced notions of randomness and the everyday in his artistic practice.

In contrast, Sol LeWitt was a key figure in the development of Conceptual Art and Minimalism. His work focused on the exploration of ideas and systems, often employing simple geometric forms and basic colors to convey complex concepts. LeWitt's approach to art was rooted in the conceptual, emphasizing the idea or concept behind the artwork over its physical execution. His famous statement, "The idea becomes a machine that makes the art," exemplifies his prioritization of concept over craftsmanship.

When LeWitt states, "I was not interested in that," in reference to the influence of Duchamp and Dada on John Cage's thinking, he is expressing his divergence from the artistic philosophies and methodologies of these influential figures. LeWitt's disinterest in the ideas derived from Duchamp and Dada can be seen as a reflection of his commitment to his own artistic vision, one that was firmly rooted in the conceptual and minimalist principles that defined his practice.

While LeWitt may have distanced himself from the influences of Duchamp and Dada as seen through Cage's thinking, it is important to note that artistic movements and influences are often interconnected and complex. The exchange of ideas and the evolution of artistic thought are integral to the progression of art history. LeWitt's statement serves as a reminder of the diversity of artistic viewpoints and the individuality of artistic expression.

In conclusion, Sol LeWitt's quote provides insight into his artistic perspective and his position in relation to the influences of Duchamp, Dada, and John Cage. By contextualizing the significance of these influential figures and their impact on the art world, we gain a deeper understanding of the complex and multifaceted nature of artistic influence and innovation.