What does the artist do? He draws connections. He ties the invisible threads between things. He dives into history, be it the history of mankind, the geological history of the Earth or the beginning and end of the manifest cosmos.

In this quote, Anselm Kiefer describes the role of the artist as one who makes connections between disparate ideas, events, and concepts. According to Kiefer, the artist's task is not just to create objects or images but to explore the invisible threads that link various aspects of the world. These connections may be between people, cultures, or even across different dimensions of time, such as history, geological history, or the grand scale of the cosmos. The artist seeks to reveal the underlying patterns or meanings that connect things, often beyond the surface of everyday life.

Kiefer also emphasizes that artists explore deep and often complex themes, such as the history of mankind, the earth's geological past, and even the beginning and end of the universe itself. By diving into these vast and profound subjects, the artist seeks to illuminate the hidden connections that shape existence. This view suggests that art is not just about personal expression but also about grappling with the universal and the eternal, attempting to understand humanity's place within a much larger, interconnected world.

The origin of this quote comes from Kiefer’s philosophy on the nature of art. As a prominent German painter and sculptor, Kiefer has always been interested in themes of history, memory, and the ways in which individuals and societies relate to their past. His works often incorporate symbols from mythology, religion, and literature, reflecting his belief that art serves as a means of understanding the complex layers of history and existence. This quote reflects his belief that the artist's role is to explore, reveal, and make sense of these connections.

Ultimately, Kiefer's quote suggests that artists are more than creators—they are explorers of time, history, and existence. By drawing connections between seemingly unrelated elements, they help us understand the deeper relationships that bind us all. Art, in this sense, becomes a way of engaging with the invisible threads that tie together the vast tapestry of life, offering insight into our collective past, present, and future.