“It is necessary to keep one’s compass in one’s eyes and not in the hand, for the hands execute, but the eye judges.”
- March 6, 1475 – February 18, 1564
- Born in the Republic of Florence (now Italy)
- Sculptor, painter, architect, poet
- Produced many masterpieces that represent Renaissance art, including the “David” statue, the “Pietà,” and the “Sistine Chapel ceiling”
Quote
“It is necessary to keep one’s compass in one’s eyes and not in the hand, for the hands execute, but the eye judges.”
Explanation
In this quote, Michelangelo draws a distinction between vision and execution, emphasizing that true artistry and craftsmanship begin with the mind’s eye, not with the hands that perform the physical labor. He argues that the artist or craftsman must first visualize the form or design, using the eye to judge and direct the work, while the hands are simply the tools for bringing that vision to life. The “compass” metaphor suggests that the eye functions as a guiding force, helping the artist stay true to their vision, while the hands carry out the manual task of shaping, carving, or creating. Michelangelo’s statement reflects his belief that technical skill is important, but it must be informed by imagination and judgment, as without vision, the work lacks purpose or direction.
This quote underscores a central tenet of the Renaissance worldview, where the artist was seen as an intellectual and creative figure, not just a craftsman. In Michelangelo’s time, the artist was expected to possess not only technical skill but also a deep understanding of proportion, harmony, and human anatomy—things that could only be mastered through careful observation and study. The eye represents the artist’s inner vision, while the hand executes the physical aspects of the work. In modern creative fields, this distinction is still relevant: whether in architecture, design, or engineering, the vision (the “eye”) is what drives the project, while the execution (the “hands”) follows, informed by the vision.
The quote also resonates with broader concepts of leadership and strategy in the modern world. Leaders and innovators often speak about the importance of vision—seeing the bigger picture and the long-term goals—before implementing strategies and making decisions. In business or entrepreneurship, for instance, the “compass” is the guiding philosophy or goal, while the “hands” are the actions taken to realize that goal. Michelangelo’s insight into the balance between vision and execution remains an important reminder that creativity, whether in art or other domains, begins with the mind before it can be brought into form by the hands.
