Meaning: The quote "Now painting is different. It's something recollected in tranquility" by Jack Levine, an American social realist painter, encapsulates the essence of the creative process in visual art. The quote is a play on the famous line from William Wordsworth's poem "Tintern Abbey" which goes, "emotion recollected in tranquility." In this context, Levine modifies the concept to relate to the act of painting.

In his statement, Levine suggests that the process of creating a painting is distinct from other forms of art, such as writing or music. He implies that painting is a more contemplative and reflective activity, one that requires a certain level of tranquility and calmness. This idea aligns with the romantic notion of the artist as a solitary figure, finding inspiration and expressing it through their work in a state of contemplation and quietude.

The term "recollected in tranquility" implies that the act of painting involves the artist drawing upon their memories, experiences, and emotions, but in a state of calm reflection rather than immediate, raw emotion. This suggests that the process of painting allows the artist to revisit their thoughts and feelings, and to distill them into a visual form with a sense of serenity and composure.

Levine's quote also suggests that the act of painting is a form of meditation or introspection for the artist. It implies that the artist must be in a state of tranquility to fully capture the essence of their subject matter. This idea aligns with the traditional view of the artist as a deep thinker and observer, attuned to the nuances of the world around them.

Furthermore, the quote can be interpreted as an acknowledgment of the enduring nature of painting. Unlike other art forms that may be more ephemeral, painting is a medium that allows for the encapsulation of a moment or feeling in a way that can be revisited and contemplated over time. The act of recollecting in tranquility suggests a deliberate and thoughtful approach to capturing the essence of a subject, allowing the artist to distill their experiences into a lasting work of art.

In conclusion, Jack Levine's quote "Now painting is different. It's something recollected in tranquility" offers a profound insight into the contemplative and reflective nature of the creative process in painting. It highlights the unique qualities of painting as an art form, emphasizing the role of tranquility and introspection in the creation of visual art. Through his words, Levine invites us to consider the meditative and enduring nature of painting as a means of expressing and preserving the artist's recollections with a sense of calmness and serenity.