Meaning: Martin Kippenberger, a prominent German artist known for his provocative and multifaceted work, made the statement, "Assuming roles is something that simply won't work for me, since I don't have a style. None at all." This quote encapsulates Kippenberger's approach to art and his rejection of conventional artistic categorization. Kippenberger's bold and unapologetic stance on the concept of artistic style reflects his unconventional and often challenging artistic practice.

Throughout his career, Kippenberger consistently defied categorization and resisted being confined to a specific artistic style or movement. He embraced an eclectic and diverse range of mediums and techniques, including painting, sculpture, installation, and performance art. This refusal to adhere to a singular style reflects his rejection of traditional artistic boundaries and his insistence on exploring the full spectrum of artistic expression.

Kippenberger's rejection of assuming roles and the notion of style can be interpreted as a rejection of the limitations and expectations often associated with artistic categorization. By asserting that he does not have a style, Kippenberger challenges the traditional emphasis on artists developing a recognizable and consistent aesthetic. Instead, he celebrates artistic freedom and the ability to experiment without being bound by preconceived notions of style or artistic identity.

Furthermore, Kippenberger's statement can be viewed as a commentary on the fluid and ever-changing nature of artistic expression. He may be suggesting that the pursuit of a fixed style is inherently limiting and inhibits the potential for creative growth and evolution. By eschewing the notion of style altogether, Kippenberger positions himself as an artist who is unencumbered by the constraints of a predetermined aesthetic, allowing for a more expansive and unrestrained approach to his work.

In addition to his rejection of style, Kippenberger's insistence on not assuming roles speaks to his aversion to conforming to societal expectations or predefined roles within the art world. His refusal to be pigeonholed into a specific artistic category or identity aligns with his overall subversive and rebellious approach to art. Kippenberger's resistance to assuming roles can be seen as a rejection of the notion that artists should adhere to established norms or conventions, instead advocating for a more individualistic and idiosyncratic approach to creativity.

Overall, Martin Kippenberger's quote encapsulates his uncompromising and independent approach to art. By asserting that he does not have a style and rejecting the idea of assuming roles, Kippenberger challenges traditional notions of artistic identity and celebrates the freedom to explore and experiment without constraints. His bold and unapologetic stance continues to inspire artists to embrace the boundless possibilities of artistic expression and resist the pressures of conformity within the art world.