Art Quote by Gerhard Richter
“Theory has nothing to do with a work of art. Pictures which are interpretable, and which contain a meaning, are bad pictures. A picture presents itself as the Unmanageable, the Illogical, the Meaningless.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Artforum, 2008
Art should not be forced into clear meaning; ambiguous, unmanageable images are more authentic.
In simple terms: Bad pictures are those that are easily interpreted.
Embrace ambiguity.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- gallery curation
- art criticism
- creative practice
- education
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Can art be both ambiguous and meaningful?
- How does ambiguity affect viewer engagement?
Some viewers may find meaning in ambiguity.