“We must not discriminate between things. Where things are concerned there are no class distinctions. We must pick out what is good for us where we can find it.”
- October 25, 1881 – April 8, 1973
- Born in Spain
- Painter, sculptor, printmaker
- Founder of Cubism, he had a revolutionary influence on 20th century art, leaving behind masterpieces such as “Guernica”
Quote
“We must not discriminate between things. Where things are concerned there are no class distinctions. We must pick out what is good for us where we can find it.”
Explanation
In this quote, Picasso advocates for an open-minded approach to the world, urging us to move beyond traditional hierarchies and class distinctions when evaluating things. Whether it’s art, ideas, or materials, Picasso suggests that value should not be determined by social, cultural, or economic status, but by what is useful and good for us personally. Picasso’s philosophy of rejecting elitism and embracing ideas or materials from diverse sources aligns with his approach to art, where he borrowed from different cultures, traditions, and artistic movements. He was known for incorporating influences from African art, classical painters, and modern abstraction, blending them into something uniquely his own. Picasso’s words highlight his belief in the democratization of creativity and the idea that innovation can come from any source, not just the established or elite.
This idea is particularly relevant in modern times, where the notion of value—whether in art, business, or culture—is often shaped by class or status. Today, we see a growing trend toward the appreciation of the non-traditional: artists, musicians, and entrepreneurs increasingly find inspiration in unconventional sources, and diverse perspectives are often more valued than simply adhering to established norms. Picasso’s emphasis on pragmatism—picking out what is good for us regardless of its origin—encourages a more inclusive and open-minded approach to creativity and decision-making.
An example of this can be seen in the rise of collaborative creativity and cross-disciplinary work today. In the tech world, companies like Apple or Google have thrived by integrating ideas from different industries and cultural influences, pushing boundaries beyond their original fields. Similarly, artists today often draw from a wide range of sources, from street art to digital platforms, rejecting the idea that creativity must come from traditional, “higher” cultural sources. Picasso’s quote serves as a reminder that value comes from the utility and relevance of things, not from their social position or perceived status, encouraging us to find and embrace what is truly beneficial.
