Meaning: The quote "Mrs Woolf's complaint should be addressed to her creator, who made her, rather than me" by Cecil Beaton reflects the photographer's perspective on the nature of portraiture and the responsibility of the artist in capturing the essence of their subject. This quote is attributed to Cecil Beaton, a renowned British photographer, and costume designer who was known for his iconic portraits of celebrities and members of the British royal family.

In this statement, Beaton seems to be emphasizing the idea that a portrait, as a representation of an individual, is ultimately a product of the subject's own being and existence. By suggesting that Mrs. Woolf's complaint should be directed to her creator, Beaton seems to be acknowledging the inherent complexity of capturing a person's true essence in a portrait. The quote suggests that the essence of the subject, or "Mrs. Woolf," is ultimately a creation of something beyond the artist's control, namely the subject's own identity and existence.

The reference to "her creator" can be interpreted in various ways. It could refer to a divine creator, suggesting that the true essence of an individual is a product of their creation by a higher power. Alternatively, it could be seen as a metaphorical reference to the experiences, relationships, and internal complexities that shape a person's identity. In either case, Beaton's statement seems to imply that the responsibility for capturing the true essence of a subject in a portrait extends beyond the artist's technical skill and creative vision.

From a philosophical standpoint, Beaton's quote raises questions about the nature of representation and the relationship between the artist, the subject, and the audience. It suggests that a portrait is not merely a visual depiction of a person, but rather a reflection of their complex inner world and unique existence. By implying that the subject's complaint should be directed to her creator, Beaton seems to be emphasizing that the true essence of a person cannot be fully captured or controlled by the artist, and that the subject's own being is the ultimate source of their representation.

In the context of Beaton's career as a photographer, this quote provides insight into his approach to portraiture. Known for his elegant and iconic portraits of cultural figures and celebrities, Beaton was celebrated for his ability to capture the essence and personality of his subjects. It is clear that he viewed the act of portraiture as a collaborative effort between the artist and the subject, with the subject's own existence and identity playing a crucial role in the creation of the portrait.

Overall, Beaton's quote offers a thought-provoking perspective on the nature of portraiture and the relationship between the artist and the subject. It suggests that a portrait is not simply a representation of a person's physical appearance, but rather a reflection of their inner essence and existence. By emphasizing the role of the subject's own creation in their representation, Beaton's quote invites contemplation on the complex nature of identity, representation, and the artistic process.