Painters have always needed a sort of veil upon which they can focus their attention. It's as though the more fully the consciousness is absorbed, the greater the freedom of the spirit behind.

The quote by Bridget Riley speaks to the role of a "veil" or filter in the creative process, particularly for painters. Riley suggests that artists need some form of external focus—a medium or subject upon which their attention can be directed—in order to channel their creativity effectively. This "veil" serves as a kind of structure that helps artists to concentrate their energy, enabling them to produce their work. The idea is that when an artist’s consciousness is fully absorbed in their craft, it allows for greater freedom and expression of their spirit and creativity.

Riley’s statement reflects her belief in the connection between focus and artistic freedom. The more deeply an artist engages with their work, the less restricted they feel by external distractions, and the more they can access their innate creativity. By focusing on the task at hand, the artist's mind is freed from limitations, and they can create from a place of deeper, more authentic expression.

The origin of this quote comes from Bridget Riley, a renowned British painter known for her distinctive work in the Op Art movement, which explores visual perception and optical effects. Riley’s own paintings, characterized by their precise, dynamic patterns, are a testament to her belief in the interplay between focus, technique, and freedom of expression. Her work often challenges viewers to experience art through their perception, reflecting her thoughts on how concentration can lead to creative liberation.

In essence, Riley’s quote emphasizes the relationship between structure and freedom in art. By focusing deeply on a specific medium or form, an artist can transcend the ordinary and tap into a deeper level of creative energy. Her words suggest that true artistic freedom comes when an artist is able to concentrate fully on their work, allowing their spirit to flow freely through their art.