Meaning: Richard Serra, a renowned American sculptor, made this statement in response to a question about his audience during an interview. The quote reflects Serra's unique approach to art and his perspective on the relationship between the artist and the viewer. Serra's work is often characterized by its monumental scale, use of industrial materials, and the way it engages with the surrounding space. His sculptures provoke a sense of physical and emotional response, challenging viewers to confront the work directly and experience it in their own individual way.

Serra's statement suggests that he creates art primarily for himself, without a specific audience in mind. This approach sets him apart from many artists who consider the viewer's experience and interpretation as integral to their work. Serra's focus on his own artistic vision and expression raises questions about the role of the audience in the appreciation and understanding of his art. It also invites an exploration of the ways in which viewers engage with his sculptures and the impact of their individual perspectives on the meaning of the works.

One possible interpretation of Serra's statement is that he prioritizes authenticity and self-expression in his artistic process. By creating art for himself, he may aim to maintain artistic integrity and independence from external influences. This approach allows Serra to explore his own ideas and emotions without being constrained by the expectations or preferences of a specific audience. As a result, his sculptures embody a raw and uncompromising quality that reflects his personal artistic vision.

Serra's statement also raises important questions about the nature of the artistic experience and the role of the viewer in interpreting and engaging with art. While Serra may not have a particular viewer in mind during the creation of his sculptures, the eventual interaction between the artwork and its audience becomes a crucial part of its existence. Each viewer brings their own unique perspective, background, and emotions to the encounter with the artwork, thereby shaping their individual experience and understanding of it.

In this sense, Serra's approach challenges the traditional notion of art as a means of communication between the artist and the viewer. Instead, it highlights the open-ended and subjective nature of the artistic experience, emphasizing the importance of individual interpretation and engagement. Serra's sculptures invite viewers to physically navigate the imposing forms, exploring the interplay of light and shadow, the tactile qualities of the materials, and the visceral impact of the monumental scale. In doing so, viewers become active participants in the creation of meaning, contributing their own perceptions and emotions to the overall experience of the artwork.

Ultimately, Serra's statement offers a thought-provoking perspective on the relationship between the artist and the viewer, challenging conventional notions of artistic communication and audience engagement. By creating art primarily for himself, Serra exemplifies a commitment to personal authenticity and artistic exploration, while also stimulating a deeper consideration of the dynamic and multifaceted nature of the viewer's role in the appreciation and interpretation of art.