Meaning: The quote "Painting is the aesthetic side of the object but it has never been original, has never been its own goal" is a thought-provoking statement by Kazimir Malevich, a renowned Russian avant-garde artist and art theoretician. This quote reflects Malevich's views on the purpose and nature of painting as an art form. Through his words, Malevich challenges the conventional notions of painting as a means of representation or imitation, emphasizing its aesthetic dimension and its relationship to the object being depicted.

In this quote, Malevich suggests that painting is fundamentally concerned with the aesthetic aspect of the object it portrays. Rather than simply replicating the physical appearance of the object, painting explores its visual and sensory qualities, capturing the essence of the object through color, form, and composition. Malevich's emphasis on the aesthetic side of painting aligns with his pioneering contributions to the development of abstract art, particularly his involvement in the Suprematist movement, which sought to express the purity of artistic feeling through non-representational forms and colors.

Furthermore, Malevich's assertion that painting "has never been original, has never been its own goal" implies that painting does not exist in isolation, but rather exists in relation to something external. This challenges the idea of painting as a self-contained, self-referential practice and instead positions it as a medium that is inherently linked to its subject matter or context. Malevich's statement encourages a reevaluation of the traditional understanding of painting as a self-sufficient art form, prompting viewers and artists to consider the external influences and inspirations that shape the creation and reception of paintings.

Malevich's perspective on painting can also be understood in the context of his broader artistic philosophy, which sought to transcend representational art and embrace a more spiritual and universal dimension of creativity. As a leading figure in the Russian avant-garde, Malevich sought to revolutionize the way art was conceived and experienced, advocating for a new visual language that went beyond the confines of traditional artistic conventions.

In conclusion, Kazimir Malevich's quote "Painting is the aesthetic side of the object but it has never been original, has never been its own goal" encapsulates his innovative approach to painting and his rejection of conventional artistic norms. By emphasizing the aesthetic dimension of painting and its connection to external realities, Malevich challenges viewers to reconsider the nature and purpose of painting as an art form. His words continue to inspire contemporary discussions on the role of painting in the broader spectrum of visual culture and artistic expression.