Meaning: The quote by Chuck Close sheds light on his artistic journey and the evolution of his work. Close is an American artist known for his photorealist portraits. His quote reflects his experimentation with different mediums and techniques as well as his progression as an artist.

When Close mentions doing "some pastels and other pieces in which there was just basically one color per square," he is likely referring to his early exploration of color and form. This experimentation with pastels and monochromatic compositions allowed him to focus on the relationship between color and space within his artwork. By limiting himself to one color per square, he may have been honing his understanding of how color can interact and create visual impact within a confined area.

As Close mentions that the squares "would get bigger and I could get 2 or 3 colors into the square," it signifies a gradual expansion of his artistic repertoire. This progression suggests a deepening understanding of color theory and a growing confidence in his ability to manipulate color within his compositions. Close's willingness to push the boundaries of his work by incorporating multiple colors into the squares demonstrates his experimental and innovative approach to art-making.

The quote culminates with Close's transition to making oil paintings. This shift represents a significant milestone in his career as it marks his embrace of a classic and versatile medium. Oil painting allows for layering, blending, and an extensive range of color possibilities, which would have provided Close with the freedom to fully explore his artistic vision.

Throughout his career, Close's work has been characterized by his meticulous attention to detail and his exploration of color, form, and perception. His statement reflects the evolution of his artistic process, from initial experimentation with pastels to the refined and complex medium of oil painting. Close's journey from working with a single color per square to creating intricate oil paintings underscores his dedication to artistic growth and development.

In summary, Chuck Close's quote encapsulates the progression of his artistic exploration, from early experiments with pastels and monochromatic compositions to the development of multi-colored squares and, ultimately, his transition to oil painting. This quote provides insight into Close's creative process and his relentless pursuit of artistic innovation, making it a valuable reflection of his artistic journey.