Meaning: Kenneth Noland, an American abstract painter, was known for his geometric and color-field paintings. The quote "Usually I throw away what I don't get right the first time" reflects Noland's commitment to precision and the importance he placed on the initial stages of his artistic process.

Noland's approach to art-making was deeply rooted in the principles of minimalism and abstraction. He was associated with the Washington Color School, a group of artists who were known for their exploration of color and form in the mid-20th century. Noland's work often featured bold, geometric shapes and vibrant, flat colors, and he was particularly interested in the way colors interacted with one another on the canvas.

When Noland stated, "Usually I throw away what I don't get right the first time," he was expressing the rigorous standards he held himself to as an artist. This mindset suggests a commitment to excellence and a willingness to discard anything that did not meet his exacting standards. It also speaks to the idea of artistic discipline and the value of iteration and refinement in the creative process.

For Noland, the act of discarding work that did not meet his standards was likely a way to maintain the integrity of his artistic vision. By being selective about the pieces he chose to pursue, he ensured that his body of work remained cohesive and consistent with his artistic goals. This approach also speaks to the idea of quality over quantity, emphasizing the importance of producing art that met his high standards rather than simply churning out work for the sake of productivity.

Noland's quote also sheds light on the idea of artistic risk-taking and the willingness to embrace failure as a natural part of the creative process. By acknowledging that not everything he produced would be successful, Noland demonstrated a willingness to experiment and push the boundaries of his own practice. This attitude is in line with the ethos of many abstract artists who sought to challenge traditional artistic conventions and explore new ways of seeing and experiencing art.

In the context of the broader art world, Noland's quote may also be interpreted as a reflection of the competitive and demanding nature of the contemporary art market. In an environment where artists are under pressure to produce work that is innovative and marketable, Noland's commitment to discarding what did not meet his standards serves as a reminder of the importance of artistic integrity and the pursuit of excellence.

Overall, Kenneth Noland's quote "Usually I throw away what I don't get right the first time" encapsulates his dedication to precision, his willingness to take creative risks, and his commitment to maintaining the highest standards in his art practice. It serves as a valuable insight into the mindset of an artist who continually sought to refine and perfect his work, and it offers a glimpse into the principles that guided his approach to art-making.