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I don't like that particular word 'shocking.' I'm looking…

“I don't like that particular word 'shocking.' I'm looking for the unexpected. I'm looking for things I've never seen before … I was in a position to take those pictures. I felt an obligation to do them.” quote by Robert Mapplethorpe
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“I don't like that particular word 'shocking.' I'm looking for the unexpected. I'm looking for things I've never seen before … I was in a position to take those pictures. I felt an obligation to do them.”

Robert Mapplethorpe

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The artist seeks originality, urging creators to pursue unseen, unexpected subjects driven by a sense of duty.

In simple terms: Seek the unexpected and fulfill your creative duty.

Key Takeaway

Create beyond the familiar.

Themes

creativity originality responsibility

Mood

reflective inspirational

Type

artistic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • photography projects
  • experimental art
  • commissioned work
  • personal exploration

Key Concepts

artistic vision ethical obligation

Questions to Reflect On

  • What unseen subjects could you explore?
  • How does responsibility shape your creative choices?
A Different Perspective

The pressure to be novel can lead to forced eccentricity rather than authentic discovery.

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