"I'm cautious about using fire. It can become theatrical. I am interested in the heat, not the flames"

This quote by Andy Goldsworthy talks to the concept of restraint and control in art. Goldsworthy is cautioning against the use of fire in art, as it can end up being too theatrical and detract from the true function of the work. He is more thinking about the heat of the fire, rather than the flames themselves. This speaks to the concept of using fire as a tool to produce something, instead of as a phenomenon. Goldsworthy is emphasizing the importance of restraint and control in art, and how the use of fire can be utilized to develop something significant, rather than just a show. He is suggesting that the heat of the fire can be utilized to produce something effective and significant, rather than just a show of flames. Goldsworthy's quote speaks to the concept of utilizing fire as a tool to develop something significant, instead of simply a phenomenon.