Meaning: Georg Baselitz, a German painter, is known for his provocative, expressive style and his challenging of artistic traditions. The quote, "I had always loved expressionist painting, like every European. In fact I admired it all the more because these were precisely the paintings despised by my father's generation," reflects Baselitz's appreciation for expressionist art and his defiance of the artistic norms of his father's generation.

Expressionism is an art movement that emerged in the early 20th century, particularly in Germany. It is characterized by a focus on the artist's emotional and psychological response to the world, often conveyed through bold colors, distorted forms, and a sense of raw energy. Expressionist paintings often sought to convey the inner turmoil and angst of the human experience, and they were a departure from the realistic and academic traditions that had dominated European art for centuries.

Baselitz's statement about loving expressionist painting "like every European" suggests a deep affinity for the emotional and visceral qualities of the movement that resonated with many artists and art enthusiasts across Europe. The bold and unapologetic nature of expressionist art spoke to a universal human experience, transcending cultural and national boundaries.

Furthermore, Baselitz's acknowledgment that these paintings were despised by his father's generation speaks to the generational divide in artistic tastes and sensibilities. In the context of post-World War II Europe, the older generation may have held onto more traditional and conservative artistic values, while younger artists like Baselitz sought to challenge and subvert these norms.

Baselitz's admiration for expressionist painting in the face of his father's generation's disdain also reflects a rebellious and independent spirit. Throughout his career, Baselitz has been known for his iconoclastic approach to art, often creating works that defy conventional aesthetics and challenge the viewer's perceptions. By aligning himself with the despised art of his father's generation, Baselitz asserts his own artistic identity and rejects the constraints of traditional artistic conventions.

The quote also sheds light on the cultural and historical context in which Baselitz developed as an artist. Growing up in post-war Germany, Baselitz would have been exposed to the remnants of a shattered society and the complexities of rebuilding a national identity. In this environment, the expressive and emotive qualities of expressionist art may have resonated deeply with Baselitz and his peers, offering a means of grappling with the trauma and upheaval of the era.

In conclusion, Georg Baselitz's quote about his love for expressionist painting and his defiance of his father's generation's tastes encapsulates the rebellious spirit and independent vision that have defined his career as an artist. It also provides insight into the enduring power of expressionist art to evoke raw emotion and challenge established norms, transcending generational and cultural boundaries.