Must we be put to shame by much smaller and poorer countries, by Ireland, France, Austria or Sweden, who have understood that a nation's support of its arts is a matter of both national pride and cultural survival?
Sentiment: NEGATIVE
Well, I think, you know, the arts are really what - one of the things that make this country strong. We always think it's our economy or our military power, but in fact, I think it's our culture, our civilization, our ideas, our creativity.
The arts have always been an important ingredient to the health of a nation, but we haven't gotten there yet.
The United States and Turkey are the only two countries that don't have some kind of subsidy for the Arts. The whole culture in society has made certain films more acceptable. I turned down so many films in the '60s and '70s.
We all must support the arts, as it is our culture. It makes us better people. It makes us happy; it gives us empathy and shows us how to live. It is so important.
The arts are very alive in Ireland, so that had its influence on me. But I consider myself European, really.
I think the problem with the arts in America is how unimportant it seems to be in our educational system.
In general it can be said that a nation's art is greatest when it most reflects the character of its people.
I see little of more importance to the future of our country and of civilization than full recognition of the place of the artist. If art is to nourish the roots of our culture, society must set the artist free to follow his vision wherever it takes him.
We say arts education is good for general education, but that's not the point. The arts are what great nations are remembered for. They are a mirror.
The arts in America exist in spite of America, not because of America.