Richard Diebenkorn Quotes

My father didn't think being an artist was a respectable or worthy goal for a man.

- Richard Diebenkorn

I want a painting to be difficult to do. The more obstacles, obstructions, problems - if they don't overwhelm - the better. I would like to feel that I am involved at any stage of the painting with all its moments, not just this 'now' moment where a superficial grace is so available.

- Richard Diebenkorn

With rare exceptions, I respond most to painting that cuts across grain rather than following it. I think the artist here can get in touch with that grain rather than simply feel its flow. And he really can't cut right across it anyway.

- Richard Diebenkorn

In abstract painting, I worried about the limited range of possibilities that, as time went on, became increasingly important to me. I wanted to express or deal with differences that an all-over paint and canvas 'presence' neutralized.

- Richard Diebenkorn

My insights come in periods of working. There are wonderful moments of surprise, but I'm superstitious enough not to want to talk about them.

- Richard Diebenkorn