Artist Quote by Keith Haring
“I think you have to control the materials to an extent, but it's important to let the materials have a kind of power for themselves; like the natural power of gravity, if you are painting on a wall, it makes the paint trickle and it drips; there is no reason to fight that.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Art Talk, 1990
Artists should respect the inherent qualities of their medium, allowing natural forces to shape the work.
In simple terms: Let material guide creation.
Embrace material’s own power.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- painting
- sculpture
- installation
- performance art
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you balance control and surrender?
- What natural qualities of your medium can you highlight?
Over‑controlling can stifle spontaneity.