The quote suggests that both life and art are transient; they do not endure indefinitely. This simple statement reminds us that neither our existence nor creative works can persist forever, highlighting a fundamental truth about the impermanent nature of these aspects.
By acknowledging the fleeting nature of life and art, Eva Hesse implies that lasting duration is not a necessary condition for value or significance. The transient quality she describes could be viewed as liberating rather than depressing; it allows individuals to focus on the present moment and the impact they can have now, without being burdened by thoughts about eternal legacy. It encourages people to appreciate the beauty and importance of what exists in the here and now.
Eva Hesse was a German-American sculptor and artist known for her innovative use of unconventional materials such as latex, fiberglass, and plastic. Her work often explored themes related to form, space, and the human body, creating pieces that were both visually striking and philosophically profound. Born in 1936, she grew up amidst the turmoil of World War II and later became a prominent figure in the New York art scene during the 1960s and early 1970s. Her insights into life's fleeting nature are reflected in her approach to sculpture, where each piece is an ephemeral creation that captures a moment in time.