I Paint What I Want To See

Back of the Book

How does a painter see the world?  Philip Guston, one of the most significant artists of the twentieth century, spoke about art with unparalleled candor and commitment. Touching on work from across his career as well as that of his fellow artists and Renaissance heroes, this selection of his writings, talks, and interviews draws together some of his most incisive reflections on iconography and abstraction, metaphysics and mysticism, and, above all, the nature of painting and drawing.

Why You Should Read It

I Paint What I Want to See is an illuminating collection of the artist's writings and interviews that provides invaluable insights into his creative process, artistic philosophy, and the evolution of his distinctive style. Guston's candid and introspective reflections offer readers a rare glimpse into the mind of a masterful painter, unraveling the complexities of his visual language and the profound motivations behind his iconic works. The book not only enriches the understanding of Guston's oeuvre but also serves as an inspiring resource for artists and art enthusiasts, encouraging a deeper exploration of the intersection between artistic expression and personal vision. For those seeking a nuanced perspective on the creative mind and the transformative journey of an artist, I Paint What I Want to See stands as an indispensable and enriching read.

Memorable Passage

We were talking yesterday at the studio about the picture plane, and to me there's some mysterious element about the plane. I can't rationalize it, I can't talk about it, but I know there's an existence on this imaginary plane which holds almost all the fascination of painting for me. As a matter of fact, I think the true image only comes out when it exists on this imaginary plane. But in schools you hear everyone talk about the picture plane as a first principle. And in beginning design class, it's still labored to death. Yet I think it's one of the most mysterious and complex things to understand. I'm convinced that it's almost a key, and yet I can't talk about it; nor do I think it can be talked about. There's something very frustrating, necessary, and puzzling about this metaphysical plane that painting exists on. And I think that, when it's either eliminated or not maintained intensely, I get lost in it. This plane exists in the other arts, anyway. Think of the poetic plane and the theater plane. And it has to do with matter. It has to do with the very matter that the thing is done in.

About the Author

Philip Guston (1913–1980) was an influential American painter and printmaker, renowned for his significant contributions to the world of contemporary art. Emerging from the New York School and initially associated with Abstract Expressionism, Guston underwent a profound transformation in the late 1960s, shifting towards a figurative and narrative style. His later works, characterized by bold, cartoonish imagery and a unique blend of humor and tragedy, were groundbreaking and controversial. Guston's unapologetic departure from the art movements of his time, known as the "New Image" phase, marked him as a trailblazer. His willingness to challenge conventions and explore new visual languages left an indelible impact on the trajectory of modern art. By delving into the realms of personal and societal commentary, Guston's work remains a testament to the power of artistic evolution and the enduring relevance of his provocative vision. He is worth knowing not only for his artistic innovation but also for his courage to break free from established norms, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to influence contemporary art.

Recommended By

Dana Boulos