Meaning: The quote by Frank Auerbach, a renowned artist, provides insight into the creative process and the constant evolution of artistic work. Auerbach's words capture the essence of the artist's relentless pursuit of perfection and the willingness to continuously revisit and refine their creations. In this quote, Auerbach reveals the intense and often destructive nature of his artistic process, wherein he acknowledges the act of destroying and reworking his own work as an integral part of his artistic practice.

Auerbach's statement reflects the dedication and commitment required to produce art that satisfies the artist's vision and standards. It underscores the idea that the act of creation is not always linear or straightforward, but rather involves a continuous cycle of construction and deconstruction. Auerbach's willingness to "destroy things every day in the act of working" suggests a level of fearlessness and a willingness to push boundaries in the pursuit of artistic excellence.

The mention of recalling a finished picture in order to rework it highlights the artist's relentless pursuit of perfection and the acknowledgement that a piece of art is never truly finished. This willingness to revisit and rework completed works speaks to Auerbach's uncompromising commitment to his craft and his refusal to settle for anything less than his own exacting standards.

Auerbach's approach to artmaking is indicative of the profound emotional and intellectual investment that artists often have in their work. It also speaks to the vulnerability and courage required to continually reassess and revise one's creations, even after they have been deemed complete. This sentiment reflects the artist's relentless pursuit of capturing the essence of his subjects and the profound emotional depth he seeks to convey through his work.

The quote also sheds light on the transformative nature of the artistic process. Auerbach's willingness to destroy and rework his own creations underscores the idea that art is a living, breathing entity that evolves over time. It implies that the act of creation is not static but rather dynamic, with the potential for constant reinvention and refinement.

In conclusion, Frank Auerbach's quote encapsulates the intense dedication, fearlessness, and relentless pursuit of artistic perfection that characterizes his approach to artmaking. His willingness to destroy and rework his own work reflects the transformative and dynamic nature of the artistic process, as well as the unwavering commitment to capturing the essence of his subjects. Auerbach's words serve as a poignant reminder of the complex and ever-evolving nature of artistic creation and the profound emotional and intellectual investment that artists bring to their work.