Meaning: The quote, "I can't cut off an ear everyday. Do the Van Gogh here and the Mozart there. Anyway it's exhausting enough always having to check up on what one is really doing!" by Martin Kippenberger, offers insight into the challenges and pressures faced by artists in their creative pursuits. Kippenberger was a German artist known for his diverse body of work and his provocative and often humorous approach to art-making. This quote reflects his wry sense of humor and offers a glimpse into the complexities of the artistic process.

In this quote, Kippenberger alludes to the myth of Vincent van Gogh cutting off his own ear, a widely known and tragic episode in the life of the famous Dutch painter. By referencing this extreme act, Kippenberger humorously highlights the intense and often overwhelming demands placed on artists. The comparison to Mozart, a legendary composer, further emphasizes the pressure to produce work of exceptional quality and enduring significance.

Kippenberger's lament about the exhaustion of "always having to check up on what one is really doing" speaks to the self-doubt and self-criticism that many artists grapple with. The constant evaluation of one's creative output can be emotionally and mentally draining, as artists strive to maintain authenticity and integrity in their work.

This quote also sheds light on the romanticized notions of the tortured artist and the notion of the artist as a genius. Kippenberger's playful tone challenges these stereotypes, suggesting that the reality of artistic practice is far from glamorous or effortless. The reference to van Gogh and Mozart serves as a reminder that artistic greatness often comes with personal struggles and sacrifices.

Kippenberger himself was known for his eclectic and often irreverent approach to art, incorporating elements of painting, sculpture, installation, and performance into his practice. His work was characterized by its humor, subversiveness, and willingness to confront the conventions of the art world. Through this quote, Kippenberger offers a glimpse into his own mindset as an artist, navigating the expectations and challenges of the creative process.

Overall, Kippenberger's quote encapsulates the complex and multifaceted nature of artistic creation. It speaks to the emotional and psychological toll of the creative process, while also challenging romanticized notions of artistic genius. By infusing his words with wit and irony, Kippenberger invites reflection on the realities of being an artist, reminding us that creativity is often accompanied by struggle, doubt, and the relentless pursuit of authenticity.

In conclusion, Martin Kippenberger's quote "I can't cut off an ear everyday. Do the Van Gogh here and the Mozart there. Anyway it's exhausting enough always having to check up on what one is really doing!" offers a humorous but thought-provoking insight into the challenges and pressures faced by artists in their creative endeavors. With references to iconic artists and a playful tone, Kippenberger sheds light on the complexities of the artistic process and the emotional toll of striving for creative authenticity.