"And I think a painting has such a limited life anyway"

This quote by Robert Rauschenberg talks to the ephemeral nature of art. He is suggesting that a painting, like any other artwork, has a limited life-span. This might be interpreted in a few methods. First of all, it might describe the physical lifespan of a painting, which goes through the components and can fade or degrade over time. Second of all, it might describe the life-span of a painting in regards to its relevance and effect. A painting might be popular and widely appreciated in one age, however its relevance may lessen in time as tastes and patterns change. Lastly, it might describe the lifespan of a painting in regards to its impact on other artists. A painting might influence other artists to develop their own works, but its influence might eventually fade as brand-new works concern the forefront. Eventually, Rauschenberg is recommending that a painting, like any other artwork, has a minimal lifespan.