Meaning: Howard Hodgkin, a renowned British artist, made this statement to emphasize the continuity and timelessness of pictorial techniques across centuries. By comparing the 20th century to the 15th, Hodgkin highlights the enduring nature of art and the consistent principles that govern the creation of pictures. This quote invites us to consider the evolution of art within the context of tradition and persistence.

Hodgkin's assertion that "the picture surface recedes just as much in the 20th century as it did in the 15th" suggests that the illusion of depth and space within a picture remains a fundamental aspect of artistic practice. Throughout history, artists have employed various techniques to create the illusion of three-dimensionality on a two-dimensional surface. From the linear perspective developed during the Renaissance to the modernist explorations of abstraction and color theory, the concept of creating depth on a flat canvas has been a consistent pursuit across centuries.

Furthermore, Hodgkin's observation that "the techniques of making pictures have hardly changed" challenges the notion of radical innovation in art. While artistic styles and movements have certainly evolved over time, Hodgkin suggests that the fundamental techniques of picture-making have endured. The use of brushstrokes, composition, color theory, and other foundational elements of visual art has persisted across centuries, serving as a link between artists of different eras.

This quote prompts us to consider the timeless nature of artistic expression and the enduring relevance of traditional techniques. Despite the rapid changes and innovations that characterize the 20th century, Hodgkin reminds us that the essence of picture-making remains rooted in historical continuity. Artists continue to grapple with the same fundamental challenges and aspirations that have occupied their predecessors, illustrating the enduring nature of artistic exploration and creation.

Hodgkin's perspective also invites us to reflect on the interconnectedness of artistic traditions. By drawing a parallel between the 15th and 20th centuries, he emphasizes the enduring influence of historical art movements on contemporary practice. Artists often look to the past for inspiration, drawing upon the techniques and innovations of previous eras to inform their own creative endeavors. In this way, Hodgkin's quote underscores the ongoing dialogue between past and present within the realm of visual art.

In conclusion, Howard Hodgkin's quote encapsulates the idea of continuity and tradition within the practice of picture-making. By highlighting the persistent pursuit of depth and space in art, as well as the enduring techniques of artistic expression, Hodgkin invites us to consider the timeless nature of artistic endeavor. This quote serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of artistic traditions across centuries and the enduring relevance of foundational principles in the creation of visual art.

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