"Everyone is of course free to interpret the work in his own way. I think seeing a picture is one thing and interpreting it is another"

In the quote by Jasper Johns, he touches upon the subjective nature of art and the difference between observation and individual interpretative procedure. This declaration suggests that when encountering a piece of art, there are two levels of engagement: observation and interpretation.

The first part of the quote, "Everyone is obviously totally free to interpret the operate in his own way", stresses the individual interaction in between the audience and the artwork. This shows a fundamental attribute of postmodern art, where the meaning is not exclusively embedded within the artwork itself however is co-created by the audience's experiences, emotions, and ideas. Here, Johns acknowledges the plurality of analyses that can arise from a single piece. Different audiences might bring unique viewpoints, shaped by their specific backgrounds and experiences, causing an abundant diversity of meanings. This leans into the democratic nature of art appreciation, where no analysis is inherently more legitimate than another.

The latter part of the quote, "I think seeing a photo is something and interpreting it is another", further delves into the complexity of art engagement. "Seeing", within this context, can be understood as the preliminary sensory perception of the work. It is the concrete act of observing the visual components-- the colors, shapes, lines, and kinds provided by the artist. This observation can be thought about a neutral act, free from predisposition or emotional influence.

On the other hand, "analyzing" involves a deeper cognitive and psychological process. It is where personal biases, cultural contexts, and subconscious inclinations enter into play, transforming mere observation into layered understanding. Johns suggests that this interpretative stage is where subjective significance is constructed, an unique journey for each viewer.

Eventually, Johns acknowledges the complex relationship between art work, artist, and observer. While seeing is a shared experience rooted in immediate perception, analyzing fosters private insight, allowing art to resonate on a personal level, therefore enriching its impact and significance throughout diverse audiences.