I like the elitism of the art world. I think art for the people

Yes — that quote is correctly attributed to John Waters, the American filmmaker, writer, and artist known for his edgy, often controversial films, including Pink Flamingos and Hairspray.

“I like the elitism of the art world. I think art for the people is a terrible idea.”
— John Waters

Context and Background

John Waters is known for his provocative and unapologetic approach to art and culture, often exploring the boundaries of good taste and conventional morality. His quote reflects his belief in the exclusivity of the art world and his rejection of the idea that art should be democratized or made accessible to everyone. Waters is challenging the notion that art must be for the masses, instead embracing the idea that art should provoke, challenge, and be reserved for a certain audience that appreciates it on a deeper level.

Interpretation

• "I like the elitism of the art world" — Waters embraces the elitist nature of the art world, suggesting that art can be a specialized pursuit, appreciated and understood by a select group of individuals who can engage with it at a certain level.

• "Art for the people is a terrible idea" — Waters critiques the idea that art should be simplified or watered down to be more accessible to the general public, implying that this can lead to banality or the loss of art's power to challenge norms and provoke thought.

Summary

John Waters’s quote reflects his contrarian and rebellious stance on art, rejecting the idea that it should cater to a broad, democratic audience. Instead, he values the elitism of the art world, seeing it as a space for provocation, innovation, and the preservation of artistic integrity. His perspective challenges conventional ideas about art’s role in society, suggesting that its true value lies in its ability to stir controversy and speak to a select audience.