To put down an ideogram of a table so that people will recognize it as a table is not the work of a painter, but to sense it for a moment as a magic carpet with a leg hanging down at each corner is the beginning of a painter's imagination.

In this quote, Frank Auerbach distinguishes between basic representation and the deeper, more imaginative approach that defines a true artist. He uses the example of a table to illustrate this idea. Simply drawing an ideogram—a symbol or representation—of a table, which people can easily recognize, is not the true work of a painter. Auerbach suggests that this level of representation lacks depth and creativity, as it only seeks to capture an object’s literal form.

Auerbach contrasts this with what he calls the beginning of a painter's imagination: to perceive the table as something much more than just a functional object. By describing the table as a magic carpet with a leg hanging down at each corner, he evokes a sense of whimsy and transformation, where the artist goes beyond the literal and begins to infuse the object with a deeper, more imaginative significance. This shift in perception is the starting point for the painter to create art that transcends mere representation.

The quote highlights the idea that a true artist doesn’t just depict what is in front of them but instead allows their imagination to transform ordinary objects into something new and exciting. The table, in this case, becomes an object of mystery and fantasy, illustrating how creativity can breathe life into even the most mundane things. This perspective allows the artist to move beyond simple representation and into the realm of artistic innovation.

Ultimately, Auerbach’s quote speaks to the essence of artistic creation: it’s not about copying the world as it appears, but about reinterpreting it in a way that reflects the artist’s inner vision and imagination. By seeing everyday objects like the table through a more creative lens, the artist can begin to express something profound and original, marking the true beginning of artistic expression.