Meaning: This quote by Frank Auerbach, a renowned contemporary British artist, provides a profound insight into the passion and dedication that drives creative individuals. Auerbach, known for his expressive and dynamic approach to painting, emphasizes the urgency and significance of devoting oneself to one's craft, particularly in the face of mortality. This quote encapsulates the artist's unwavering commitment to his art and serves as a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of life.

Frank Auerbach's words convey a sense of urgency and purpose, reflecting the deep-seated belief that pursuing one's artistic endeavors is not just a choice, but a necessity. The idea of waking up each morning with the singular focus on painting speaks to the artist's unyielding dedication to his craft. For Auerbach, the act of creating art is not merely a vocation; it is a fundamental part of existence, a means of seizing the present moment and expressing one's innermost thoughts and emotions. This sentiment underscores the profound significance of art in the artist's life, as well as the value he places on the act of creation itself.

The quote also carries a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the uncertainty of what each new day may bring. Auerbach's reference to the possibility of not waking up the following morning serves as a sobering acknowledgment of mortality. This contemplation of life's impermanence adds depth to his exhortation to prioritize painting, emphasizing the fleeting nature of time and the imperative to seize the opportunities at hand. It is a call to embrace the present moment and immerse oneself in the act of creation, recognizing that each day is a precious gift not to be squandered.

In understanding the context of Auerbach's quote, it is essential to consider the artist's own life and career. Born in Berlin in 1931, Auerbach fled Nazi Germany as a child and eventually settled in England. His experiences as a refugee and his subsequent life in post-war London undoubtedly shaped his perspective on the transitory nature of existence. This quote can be seen as a reflection of Auerbach's personal history, as well as his unwavering commitment to his artistic practice in the face of adversity and upheaval.

Furthermore, Auerbach's artistic style, characterized by thickly layered, impasto paintings that capture the essence of his subjects with a raw and visceral energy, reinforces the intensity and immediacy inherent in his quote. His approach to painting, which often involves relentless reworking and refining of his compositions, mirrors the sense of urgency and dedication expressed in his words. This fusion of art and life, where the act of creation is intertwined with the very essence of existence, lies at the heart of Auerbach's artistic philosophy.

In conclusion, Frank Auerbach's quote encapsulates the profound connection between art, life, and mortality. It serves as a powerful reminder of the imperative to pursue one's passion with unwavering commitment and urgency. Auerbach's words resonate with the timeless truth that each day is a precious opportunity to engage in the act of creation, and that embracing this opportunity is a testament to the richness and vitality of human existence.