Georg Baselitz: 'The artist is not responsible to any one. His social role is asocial... his only responsibility consists in an attitude to the work he does.'

The artist is not responsible to any one. His social role is asocial... his only responsibility consists in an attitude to the work he does.

In his quote, 'The artist is not responsible to any one. His social role is asocial... his only responsibility consists in an attitude to the work he does,' Georg Baselitz delves into the nature of an artist's responsibility and the societal role they play. At first glance, the quote suggests that artists are exempt from any obligations towards society, as their primary responsibility lies solely in their approach to their craft. It emphasizes the artist's commitment to their own artistic vision and creative expression. However, by introducing an unexpected philosophical concept such as existentialism, we can explore alternate interpretations of the artist's responsibility and the implications of an "asocial" social role.Baselitz's quote highlights the artist's autonomy and independence from external pressures, asserting that their sole responsibility lies in their attitude towards their own work. This notion affirms the importance of creative freedom and individual expression, encapsulating the fundamental essence of art. By emphasizing the artist's personal relationship with their craft, Baselitz challenges the conventional expectations of artists in society, suggesting that their duty is primarily to themselves rather than to any particular audience or governing entity.However, in order to delve deeper into the significance of Baselitz's statement, let us turn to the concept of existentialism. Existentialism, a philosophical movement that emerged in the 20th century, explores themes of individualism, personal freedom, and the absence of overarching meaning in the universe. Applying this concept to the realm of art allows us to reevaluate the artist's responsibility in a more nuanced manner.Existentialism emphasizes the subjective experience of the individual and highlights the importance of personal autonomy. From an existentialist perspective, the artist's responsibility lies not only in their attitude towards their work but also in their relationship with the world in which they exist. In this light, Baselitz's quote can be seen in a more complex way, suggesting that the artist is responsible for the authenticity and truthfulness of their artistic expression, as well as the impact their work may have on society and the individual.In contrast to the initial interpretation of the quote as suggesting an artist's detachment from societal obligations, the existentialist perspective introduces a subtle shift in understanding. It allows us to consider the artist's responsibility not solely as centered on their attitude towards their work, but also in their engagement with the world and the potential ramifications of their creative output. In this sense, the artist's asocial social role can be viewed as a deliberate choice to navigate their own artistic path, while still acknowledging their place within society and its impact on their work.Ultimately, Baselitz's quote reminds us of the intricate relationship between autonomy and responsibility in the realm of art. While the artist indeed possesses a unique kind of freedom, they are not entirely absolved from the consequences that their art may have on the world around them. The artist's responsibility, therefore, encompasses both personal authenticity and a deliberate awareness of the social and existential contexts in which their work is created and received.By pondering the intersection of Baselitz's quote and the philosophical framework of existentialism, we are led to a more nuanced and comprehensive understanding of the artist's role and responsibility. The artist's independence and dedication to their craft are not entirely divorced from the impact their work may have on society. In this delicate balance between personal expression and societal engagement, the artist finds their unique position, creating art that is both intimately connected to their innermost self and deeply resonant with the world in which it exists.