Art Quote by Gerhard Richter
“A work of art is itself an object, first of all, and so manipulation is unavoidable: it's a prerequisite. But I needed the greater objectivity of the photograph in order to correct my own way of seeing: for instance, if I draw an object from nature, I start to stylize and to change it in accordance with my personal vision and my training. But if I paint from a photograph, I can forget all the criteria that I get from these sources. I can paint against my will, as it were. And that, to me, felt like an enrichment.”
About This Quote
The artist uses photography to break personal bias, allowing a more objective visual reference that expands creative possibilities.
In simple terms: Photography provides objective reference for artistic enrichment.
Key Takeaway
Photographic reference can liberate artistic perception.
Themes
objectivity
perception
artistic process
media interplay
self-awareness
Mood
curious
reflective
inspired
Type
statement
philosophical
process
When to use this quote
- when an artist feels stuck in personal style
- to overcome habitual stylization
- to explore new visual approaches
- to challenge personal biases
Key Concepts
photography as tool
subjectivity vs. objectivity
creative enrichment
visual perception
Practical Applications
- using photos to inform painting
- integrating photography into visual art practice
Questions to Reflect On
- How does external reference reshape personal artistic vision?
- What balance should be struck between objectivity and personal expression?
A Different Perspective
Some argue that reliance on photographs may diminish originality, but the artist views it as a catalyst for deeper insight.
