Meaning: This quote by David Hockney, a renowned British artist, reflects his keen observation of the world around him and his understanding of the significance of shadows in art. Hockney's comment about the absence of shadows in Chinese and oriental art highlights a cultural difference in the representation of light and shadow in artistic traditions. In this quote, Hockney not only acknowledges the presence of shadows in his surroundings but also recognizes their role in indicating the presence of sunlight.

Hockney's observation about the absence of shadows in Chinese art is rooted in the stylistic conventions of traditional Chinese painting. In traditional Chinese ink wash painting, the emphasis is often on the expressive use of line and brushwork to convey the essence of the subject, rather than on the realistic depiction of light and shadow. This deliberate omission of shadows in Chinese art reflects a different approach to representing space, form, and atmosphere compared to Western artistic traditions.

By drawing attention to the absence of shadows in Chinese and oriental art, Hockney invites us to consider the cultural and aesthetic differences in the interpretation of light and shadow across artistic traditions. His own awareness of shadows and their significance in indicating sunny conditions demonstrates his sensitivity to the visual nuances of the world around him. Hockney's remark also underscores the role of shadows as an essential element in capturing the play of light and creating a sense of depth and atmosphere in visual art.

In the context of Hockney's own artistic practice, his interest in shadows and the portrayal of light has been a recurring theme in his work. Hockney's vibrant and colorful paintings often feature bold, expressive use of light and shadow to create dynamic and engaging compositions. His experimentation with techniques such as photographic collage and multi-perspective representation has also allowed him to explore the interplay of light, shadow, and color in innovative ways.

Furthermore, Hockney's fascination with the visual experience of light and shadow extends beyond his paintings to his exploration of photography and digital art. In his series of photographic works, Hockney has delved into the possibilities of capturing and manipulating light and shadow through the lens of a camera, resulting in captivating images that demonstrate his ongoing fascination with the interplay of light and shadow.

In conclusion, David Hockney's quote about shadows not being depicted in Chinese and oriental art offers a thought-provoking insight into the cultural and artistic differences in the representation of light and shadow. His own sensitivity to the presence of shadows and their significance in indicating sunny conditions reflects his keen observational skills and his appreciation for the visual nuances of the world around him. By highlighting the absence of shadows in certain artistic traditions, Hockney prompts us to consider the diverse ways in which artists across different cultures interpret and represent the interplay of light and shadow in their work.