Meaning: Jasper Johns, an American painter, sculptor, and printmaker, is known for his iconic works that challenge the boundaries of art and perception. His quote, "Sometimes I see it and then paint it. Other times I paint it and then see it. Both are impure situations, and I prefer neither," offers a glimpse into his artistic process and philosophy.

In this quote, Johns reflects on the process of creation and the relationship between perception and creation in art. He acknowledges that there are two approaches to creating art: one where he sees something and then paints it, and the other where he paints something and then sees it. Both approaches are described as "impure situations" by Johns, suggesting that they may not fully capture the essence of his artistic vision.

The first part of the quote, "Sometimes I see it and then paint it," implies a more traditional approach to art, where the artist observes a subject or an idea and then translates it onto the canvas. This approach aligns with the concept of representation in art, where the artist aims to depict an external reality through their interpretation and skill. However, Johns seems to suggest that this approach may not always lead to the most genuine expression of his artistic vision.

On the other hand, the second part of the quote, "Other times I paint it and then see it," suggests a more experimental and intuitive approach to art. This approach implies that Johns may start with a blank canvas and let his creativity guide the process, allowing the artwork to take shape as he paints. This method may lead to unexpected discoveries and new insights, as the act of creation itself becomes a journey of exploration and revelation.

By describing both approaches as "impure situations," Johns emphasizes the complexity of the artistic process and the challenges of translating ideas and perceptions into art. He recognizes that neither approach fully captures the purity of his artistic vision, and he expresses a preference for neither method. This ambivalence reflects a deep introspection and critical awareness of his own creative process.

Johns' quote also offers a deeper insight into the nature of art itself. It highlights the dynamic and reciprocal relationship between the artist, the artwork, and the act of perception. The quote suggests that the act of creation is not a linear process but rather a fluid and multi-layered experience, where the boundaries between seeing and creating are blurred.

In conclusion, Jasper Johns' quote encapsulates the nuanced and introspective nature of his artistic process. It invites us to contemplate the complex interplay between perception and creation in art and the challenges of capturing the purity of artistic vision. Through his words, Johns offers a glimpse into the profound and ever-evolving nature of artistic expression, inviting us to reconsider our own understanding of the creative process.