Idealism

Idealism: 1. Optimistic, hopeful, confident. 2. The philosophical theory that ideas are the only reality. 3. The tendency to represent things in their ideal forms, rather than as they are.

"One great function of the arts is to keep ideals alive in a culture that does not yet realize them.” Susan Neiman

“Idealists...foolish enough to throw caution to the winds...have advanced mankind and have enriched the world.” Emma Goldman

Idealism in life is the characteristic of those who regard the ideas of truth and right, goodness and beauty, as standards and directive forces.  I always assumed we each envision life in our own ideal forms.  I think of it as fuel, hope for what could be.  Then I wonder if we could ever be fully satisfied what would we do tomorrow?

The photos in this post were taken by me at the Wynwood Art Fair October 2011.

“An idealist believes the short run doesn't count. A cynic believes the long run doesn't matter. A realist believes that what is done or left undone in the short run determines the long run.” Sydney J. Harris

“A man can do what he wants, but not want what he wants.” Arthur Schopenhauer

Synonyms: anticipation, assurance, brightness, buoyancy, calmness, certainty, cheer, cheerfulness, confidence, easiness, elation, encouragement, enthusiasm, exhilaration, expectation, good cheer, happiness, hopefulness, idealism, looking on bright side, positivism, rose-colored glasses, sanguinity, sureness, trust