I really appreciate artists of the 20th century, and I can see a lot of their influence on my work, but to suggest that my design only fits within an 'ism' kind of bothers me.

In the quote, "I really appreciate artists of the 20th century, and I can see a lot of their influence on my work, but to suggest that my design only fits within an 'ism' kind of bothers me," Michael Arad is expressing his admiration for the artists of the 20th century while rejecting the idea of being confined to a specific artistic movement or style. Arad, known for designing the 9/11 Memorial in New York, acknowledges the influence of past artists on his own work but resists being labeled or restricted by any particular artistic philosophy or "-ism" (such as Modernism, Postmodernism, or Minimalism).

Arad's statement reflects his desire to maintain artistic freedom and not be pigeonholed into any single tradition or school of thought. He appreciates the legacy and contributions of 20th-century artists, but he values the ability to create work that stands independently, rather than being seen as a direct extension of any one style. This desire for individuality and creative expression is central to his artistic philosophy, where his focus is on crafting meaningful and unique designs, rather than adhering to predefined concepts.

The mention of the term "ism" refers to the common practice in art history and criticism of categorizing styles or movements, such as Impressionism, Cubism, or Surrealism. Arad's resistance to this idea suggests his discomfort with the notion of being confined to such labels, which may limit the potential scope and interpretation of his work. He wants his designs to speak for themselves and not be reduced to fitting within any specific framework, allowing for greater freedom and interpretation.

Ultimately, Arad's quote highlights his commitment to artistic autonomy and innovation. While he acknowledges the influence of past artists, he desires to push beyond the confines of tradition and create work that is distinct and personal. His message encourages other designers and artists to embrace their individuality, resisting the pressure to conform to the expectations or classifications of the past.