Art Quote by Gerhard Richter
“If, while I'm painting, I distort or destroy a motif, it is not a planned or conscious act, but rather it has a different justification: I see the motif, the way I painted it, is somehow ugly or unbearable. Then I try to follow my feelings and make it attractive. And that means a process of painting, changing or destroying - for however long it takes - until I think it has improved. And I don't demand an explanation from myself as to why this is so.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: 1995, “The Art of Painting” documentary
The artist repeatedly alters a work until it feels aesthetically acceptable, without rationalizing the urge to change.
In simple terms: He keeps changing a painting until it looks good, without asking why.
Key Takeaway
Accept intuition over analysis in creative process.
Themes
creativity
intuition
artistic process
self‑acceptance
Mood
reflective
introspective
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- painting
- personal expression
- studio practice
- art criticism
Key Concepts
aesthetic judgment
psychology of art
imperfection tolerance
Questions to Reflect On
- What drives you to keep altering your work?
- When is it okay to stop?
A Different Perspective
The method may lead to endless revisions, hindering completion.
