Meaning: The 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" by Georg Baselitz, a renowned German painter, printmaker, and sculptor, offers insights into the role and responsibility of an artist in society. Baselitz is known for his provocative and controversial artworks, and his views on the role of the artist reflect a certain level of independence and autonomy in creating art. This quote has sparked discussions and debates about the societal expectations of artists, their creative freedom, and their relationship to the audience and the broader social context.

Georg Baselitz's statement challenges traditional notions of the artist's role in society. It suggests that the artist is not bound by conventional social expectations or obligations. Instead, Baselitz emphasizes the asocial nature of the artist's social role, implying that the artist operates outside the norms and conventions of society. This assertion can be seen as a reflection of Baselitz's own rebellious and non-conformist approach to art-making, as he has often pushed the boundaries of artistic expression and challenged established artistic conventions.

The quote also highlights the artist's primary responsibility, which Baselitz identifies as the attitude towards the work produced. This suggests that the artist's foremost obligation is to the integrity, authenticity, and quality of their creative output. Baselitz's emphasis on the artist's internal relationship with their work underscores the significance of artistic vision, craftsmanship, and emotional investment in the creative process. It implies that the artist's commitment to their work is essential, regardless of external pressures or societal expectations.

From a broader perspective, Baselitz's quote raises important questions about the role of art and the artist in society. It prompts discussions about the autonomy of artistic expression, the relationship between art and social responsibility, and the impact of art on cultural and political contexts. By asserting the asocial nature of the artist's social role, Baselitz challenges the idea that art should conform to specific societal norms or serve predefined social functions. Instead, he advocates for the artist's freedom to explore, experiment, and express themselves without external constraints.

In contemporary art discourse, Baselitz's quote continues to inspire critical reflection on the evolving role of the artist in an increasingly complex and interconnected world. As artists navigate diverse social, cultural, and political landscapes, the question of their responsibility to society and the autonomy of their creative practice remains a subject of ongoing debate. Baselitz's assertion invites artists, critics, and audiences to reconsider the boundaries and expectations that shape the relationship between art and society.

In conclusion, Georg Baselitz's quote encapsulates his perspective on the artist's role and responsibility in society, emphasizing the asocial nature of the artist's social role and prioritizing the artist's attitude towards their work as their primary responsibility. This quote challenges conventional expectations of artists and invites critical reflection on the autonomy, integrity, and social relevance of artistic expression. As the art world continues to evolve, Baselitz's assertion serves as a thought-provoking catalyst for ongoing discussions about the role of the artist in shaping and responding to the complexities of the contemporary world.