Meaning: This quote by the American sculptor Martin Puryear encapsulates the essence of his artistic philosophy and approach to creating art. Puryear is known for his abstract and minimalist sculptures that often incorporate natural materials such as wood, as well as references to traditional craft techniques. His work is characterized by its profound understanding of form, materiality, and the intrinsic nature of objects. In this quote, Puryear emphasizes the significance of tapping into one's inner wisdom and intuition to create art that authentically reflects the essence of the subject matter.

Puryear's statement suggests that the act of creation is not solely a product of external influences or arbitrary decisions, but rather a process that emerges from a deep-seated understanding and connection to the fundamental nature of the subject. This inner knowing implies a profound sense of awareness and insight that transcends mere technical skill or learned knowledge. It is the ability to grasp the true essence and significance of the subject matter, which in turn informs the creative process and the resulting artwork.

The notion of "how things really are" is central to Puryear's artistic practice. It reflects his commitment to exploring the essential qualities and inherent truths of the materials and forms he works with. By delving into the intrinsic nature of the subject matter, Puryear seeks to reveal its underlying truths and convey a sense of universal significance. This approach aligns with the principles of minimalism, which often emphasize the purity and authenticity of form and material.

Puryear's emphasis on "inner knowing" also alludes to the deeply personal and introspective nature of artistic creation. He suggests that true artistic expression arises from a place of inner wisdom, intuition, and emotional resonance. This perspective resonates with the concept of the artist as a conduit for channeling their inner experiences and perceptions into their work. It emphasizes the role of the artist's intuition and personal insight as essential components of the creative process.

Furthermore, Puryear's quote highlights the idea that the act of creation is a process of discovery and revelation. By tapping into this inner knowing, the artist is able to uncover and articulate the essence of the subject matter in a way that transcends superficial appearances. This approach aligns with the concept of art as a means of revealing deeper truths and provoking contemplation and introspection in the viewer.

Martin Puryear's sculptural practice is deeply informed by his exploration of form, materiality, and the expressive potential of his chosen medium. His commitment to revealing the fundamental nature of the subjects he addresses reflects a profound engagement with the intrinsic qualities of his materials and the broader themes he seeks to convey. Through his sculptures, Puryear invites viewers to contemplate the essential nature of the world around them and to engage with art as a means of connecting to deeper truths.

In conclusion, Martin Puryear's quote encapsulates his approach to artistic creation, emphasizing the significance of tapping into an inner knowing of the fundamental nature of the subject matter. This perspective underscores the deeply personal, introspective, and intuitive nature of artistic expression, as well as the artist's role as a conduit for revealing deeper truths. Puryear's commitment to exploring the essential qualities and inherent truths of his materials and forms aligns with the principles of minimalism and underscores the transformative power of art to provoke contemplation and introspection.