Meaning: Howard Hodgkin was a renowned British painter known for his abstract and expressive style. The quote, "When I finish a painting, it usually looks as surprising to me as to anyone else," provides insight into Hodgkin's artistic process and the spontaneous nature of his work. This statement encapsulates the element of unpredictability and creative spontaneity that characterized Hodgkin's approach to painting.

Hodgkin's statement suggests that his creative process is not entirely predetermined or meticulously planned. Instead, he allows the painting to evolve and take on a life of its own as he works on it. This approach reflects a sense of openness and willingness to embrace the unexpected, allowing the painting to unfold organically without rigid preconceptions. Hodgkin's willingness to be surprised by the finished artwork highlights his receptiveness to the unpredictable and his recognition of the inherent mystery and magic of the artistic process.

For Hodgkin, the act of painting seems to be a journey of discovery, with each artwork representing a unique and unanticipated outcome. This viewpoint challenges the notion of complete control over the creative process, emphasizing the role of intuition, spontaneity, and emotional resonance in shaping the final artwork. By acknowledging the surprising nature of his completed paintings, Hodgkin invites viewers to approach his work with a similar sense of wonder and openness, encouraging them to engage with the artwork on a personal and intuitive level.

Moreover, Hodgkin's statement speaks to the enigmatic and subjective nature of art itself. The perception of art is inherently subjective, and each viewer brings their own interpretations and emotional responses to a particular artwork. Hodgkin's acknowledgment of his own surprise at the finished painting invites viewers to form their own individual connections with the artwork, recognizing that the meaning and impact of a piece of art can be deeply personal and open to diverse interpretations.

In the context of the art world, Hodgkin's quote also challenges conventional notions of artistic mastery and control. While many artists strive for precision and exactitude in their work, Hodgkin's willingness to embrace the unexpected and the surprising suggests a departure from rigid formalism and a celebration of spontaneity and emotional expression. His statement underscores the idea that art is not solely about technical skill or planned execution, but also about the ability to tap into one's emotions and instincts to create something truly evocative and authentic.

Overall, Howard Hodgkin's quote offers a glimpse into the creative ethos of an artist who values spontaneity, emotional resonance, and the element of surprise in his work. By embracing the unpredictable nature of the artistic process, Hodgkin invites viewers to engage with his art on a deeply personal and intuitive level, fostering a sense of connection and resonance that transcends conventional artistic boundaries.