"I don't know what a painting is; who knows what sets off even the desire to paint? It might be things, thoughts, a memory, sensations, which have nothing to do directly with painting itself. They can come from anything and anywhere"

Philip Guston's quote reflects a deep and reflective approach to the process of creating art. At its core, the quote reveals the enigmatic nature of motivation and creativity, suggesting that the act of painting is not an uncomplicated endeavor with clear starts and ends. Guston acknowledges the unpredictability and secret that typically accompany creative development by mentioning, "I do not understand what a painting is". This admission represents a recognition that art transcends mere technical or definitional borders-- it is an expedition into the unknown.

The phrase "who understands what triggers even the desire to paint?" emphasizes the intricacy of the inspirations that drive an artist to create. For Guston, the impulse to paint may develop spontaneously from a myriad of sources-- varying from tangible objects to abstract ideas, previous experiences, or fleeting feelings-- all of which might seem unassociated to the craft of painting itself. This reflects a belief that creativity often sprouts in the subconscious, influenced by diverse stimuli that might not be right away evident or linked to the creative medium.

Guston's reference of "things, thoughts, a memory, sensations" highlights the multifaceted nature of motivation. These aspects can weave together to stimulate the desire to develop, even when they do not have a direct relationship with the act of painting. This perspective celebrates the unpredictability and spontaneity of the innovative procedure, recommending that inspiration can be discovered in the most unanticipated locations. By specifying that these sources "can originate from anything and anywhere", Guston stresses the limitless possibilities offered to the artist, encouraging an openness to all experiences and sensations as possible catalysts for new work.

Eventually, Guston's reflection functions as a suggestion of the deep, frequently inexplicable, connection in between an artist and their practice. It talks to the universal experience of development-- characterized by unpredictability, exploration, and the ever-present search for indicating through art.