"I enjoy working in a quiet and subversive way"

Andy Goldsworthy, a popular British carver, photographer, and ecologist, is well-regarded for his site-specific setups that engage with nature and the environment intimately. His quote, "I enjoy working in a quiet and subversive way", offers a deep insight into both his artistic process and philosophical approach.

The word "quiet" most likely describes his choice for minimalistic and harmonious interventions in the natural landscapes he uses as his canvas. Goldsworthy's work typically involves subtle controls of aspects discovered in nature, such as stones, leaves, and ice. By working silently, he ends up being a partner with nature instead of a conqueror of it. This technique appreciates the natural materials and settings, permitting the fundamental appeal and imperfections of the environment to shine through in his art.

"Subversive" in this context may seem paradoxical, paired as it is with "quiet". Nevertheless, Goldsworthy's "subversiveness" could be interpreted as a gentle challenge to conventional art and societal norms. By picking nature over a conventional canvas or gallery space, he weakens the frequently commercial and commodified nature of the art world. His works are transient, subject to the aspects-- decay, melt, or remove-- highlighting the ephemeral nature of both art and life, which runs counter to the prevailing desire for permanence and possession.

Moreover, this subversion extends to how we view and communicate with the environment. Goldsworthy's art encourages audiences to rethink and deepen their relationship with nature. His approach invites reflection about the effect of human activity on the environment, frequently causing a greater appreciation and awareness of eco-friendly issues. His art cultivates a quiet transformation in idea and perception, gently coaxing audiences to consider sustainability and interconnectedness with natural surroundings.

In essence, Andy Goldsworthy's enjoyment of working "in a peaceful and subversive way" encapsulates his objective to create art that is both harmonious with nature and transformative for its audience. Through subtlety and resourcefulness, he challenges perceptions and influences a deeper, frequently spiritual connection to the world around us.