Meaning: Geoffrey Holder, a multifaceted artist known for his work as a dancer, choreographer, actor, and visual artist, expressed a sentiment in this quote that reflects a common struggle among creative individuals. His words highlight the tendency of society to categorize and label people and their work, often overlooking the complexity and fluidity of individual expression.

In the quote, Holder acknowledges that his profession involves painting, but he resists the urge to be confined by a singular label. He describes himself as a "free spirit," emphasizing his desire to transcend the limitations of categorization and embrace the boundless nature of his creativity. This sentiment resonates with many artists who seek to defy conventional labels and expectations, striving to express themselves authentically and without constraints.

The act of labeling is a pervasive aspect of human cognition and communication. It serves as a cognitive shortcut that helps us make sense of the world around us by categorizing and organizing information. However, this inclination to label can also lead to oversimplification and the imposition of narrow definitions onto complex and multifaceted individuals and their creative output.

Artists, in particular, often find themselves grappling with the pressure to conform to specific labels and genres. Whether it's a painter being pigeonholed into a particular style, a musician being confined to a specific genre, or a writer being expected to adhere to a certain literary category, the impulse to categorize can be stifling for creative expression. This pressure to conform to established labels can inhibit the freedom and spontaneity that are essential to the creative process.

Holder's resistance to being labeled reflects a broader struggle for artistic autonomy and self-expression. By asserting his identity as a "free spirit," he asserts his right to defy categorization and embrace the full spectrum of his creative impulses. This defiance is an assertion of individuality and a rejection of the constraints that labels and categories can impose.

Moreover, Holder's words also speak to the interconnectedness of creativity and freedom. The act of creation is inherently boundless, and the imposition of labels can be antithetical to the unrestricted flow of artistic inspiration. By resisting the confinement of labels, artists like Holder assert their right to create without limitations, allowing their work to transcend narrow definitions and resonate on a deeper, more profound level.

In conclusion, Geoffrey Holder's quote encapsulates the tension between the human tendency to label and categorize and the artist's desire for creative freedom and self-expression. His assertion of being a "free spirit" underscores the universal struggle to transcend labels and embrace the boundless nature of creative expression. This sentiment serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of preserving individuality and resisting the limitations of categorization in the pursuit of authentic artistic expression.