Georgia O'Keeffe: 'I decided to start anew, to strip away what I had been taught.'

I decided to start anew, to strip away what I had been taught.

In her famous quote, "I decided to start anew, to strip away what I had been taught," Georgia O'Keeffe encapsulates the essence of creative reinvention. This powerful statement reflects her determination to break free from societal norms and expectations, risking everything to explore new frontiers of artistic expression. The quote's straightforward meaning lies in the act of stripping away preconceived notions and beliefs, allowing oneself to embark on a journey of personal growth and rediscovery.But let's dive deeper and introduce an unexpected philosophical concept to add a layer of intrigue to this discussion. O'Keeffe's decision to "strip away" her teachings exhibits a parallel with the philosophical theory of existentialism, which champions individual freedom and the ability to define one's own existence. Both notions emphasize autonomy and the rejection of blindly adhering to societal constructs.Existentialism, as a philosophical movement, emerged in the early 20th century and bloomed in the aftermath of World War II. Its central tenets revolve around the idea that life has no inherent meaning or purpose, and it is up to each individual to forge their own path and create their personal values. Existentialists argue that there is no preordained "correct" way to live life; instead, they encourage individuals to question societal norms and determine their own authentic existence.In O'Keeffe's case, she made a conscious decision to liberate herself from the confines of traditional artistic training and conventional norms. By shedding the layers of what she had been taught, she embarked on a journey to discover her unique artistic voice. This aligns with existentialism's emphasis on individual freedom and expression, as O'Keeffe ventured into uncharted territories of art, creating abstract and highly stylized representations of nature, flowers, and the American Southwest.Moreover, O'Keeffe's leap of faith in forsaking what she had been taught also highlights another existentialist theme: the anxiety and uncertainty that arise when confronting the void left by discarded traditions. Stripping away long-held beliefs can be unnerving and disorienting, as it requires facing the unknown and embracing the inherent ambiguity of existence. This existential angst often accompanies the process of self-discovery and reinvention. O'Keeffe's artistic evolution was not without its share of uncertainties and challenges, but she emerged as a pioneer and one of the most celebrated artists of her time.In contrast, the influence of existentialism in society extends beyond the realm of art. Thinkers like Jean-Paul Sartre, Albert Camus, and Simone de Beauvoir applied the principles of existentialism to various aspects of human existence, including ethics, relationships, and politics. They advocated for personal responsibility, acknowledging that individuals must take ownership of their choices and actions.While O'Keeffe's decision to strip away her teachings was predominantly focused on her artistic journey, it resonates with the broader existentialist notion that we are all continuously reinventing ourselves. We must constantly reassess our beliefs and values, shedding what no longer serves us, in order to lead authentic and fulfilling lives.In essence, O'Keeffe's quote encapsulates the dual themes of creative reinvention and existentialist philosophy, offering us insights into the transformative power of stripping away what we have been taught. By embracing our individual freedom and daring to question societal expectations, we can embark on journeys of self-discovery, becoming the architects of our own existence. Georgia O'Keeffe serves as a timeless example, reminding us of the boundless possibilities that lie when we choose to start anew.