Meaning of the word "art is long and life is short" in English

What does "art is long and life is short" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

art is long and life is short

US /ɑːrt ɪz lɔːŋ ænd laɪf ɪz ʃɔːrt/
UK /ɑːt ɪz lɒŋ ænd laɪf ɪz ʃɔːt/
"art is long and life is short" picture

Idiom

used to say that it takes a long time to learn a skill or to create something of lasting value, whereas human life is relatively brief

Example:
The sculptor spent decades perfecting his technique, proving that art is long and life is short.
We must focus on our masterpieces now, for art is long and life is short.