"As with all my work, whether it's a leaf on a rock or ice on a rock, I'm trying to get beneath the surface appearance of things. Working the surface of a stone is an attempt to understand the internal energy of the stone"

In this quote, artist Andy Goldsworthy explains his method to his work. He states that whether he is working with a leaf or ice on a rock, his goal is to exceed the shallow appearance of things. By working with the surface area of a stone, he is trying to discover the internal energy and essence of the stone. This suggests that Goldsworthy sees his art as a method to connect with the natural world and get a much deeper understanding of its inner workings. He sees his work as a means of diving below the surface and exposing the real nature of the products he uses.