"I'm always surprised by things that happen to my work"

Eric Bogosian's statement, "I'm constantly surprised by things that happen to my work", encapsulates the vibrant and often unforeseeable nature of imaginative expression and its reception. This quote can be translated on a number of levels, illustrating a profound understanding of the fluid relationship between an artist, their creations, and the audience.

Firstly, the notion of surprise suggests that regardless of an artist's intent or vision, the life of an artwork typically extends beyond its creator's control. Each audience member engages with a piece through their distinct lens, shaped by individual experiences and perspectives. This interaction can cause diverse interpretations and emotional reactions that the artist might not have expected when originally crafting their work. Bogosian acknowledges this phenomenon, highlighting how an artist should sometimes give up control once a piece is launched into the world.

Moreover, Bogosian's statement alludes to the transformative journey of an art work with time. As cultural contexts shift, the significances and implications of a piece can evolve. What was when provocative or cutting-edge may be viewed differently in another era. This temporal element adds an extra layer of unpredictability to how artworks are received and valued.

Furthermore, the quote may likewise reflect on the internal process of development. Artists typically go into a state of expedition and discovery, where the act of creating can lead to unanticipated outcomes. The 'surprises' in Bogosian's work potentially symbolize those minutes of innovative revelation that are inherent in a procedure that is neither direct nor completely predictable.

In essence, Bogosian's remark is a testimony to the natural, ever-evolving life of imaginative works. It acts as a suggestion that art is not static and its meaning is not repaired. Instead, it is perpetually subject to reinterpretation and rediscovery, rendering the artistic journey as crucial as the final piece itself.