When I work, I'm thinking in terms of purely visual effects and relations, and any verbal equivalent is something that comes afterwards. But it's inconceivable to me that I could experience things and not have them enter into my painting.

In this quote, Adolph Gottlieb, an influential American abstract expressionist painter, discusses his creative process and how he approaches his artwork. He emphasizes that when he works, his primary concern is the visual effects and relations within the painting, focusing on the aesthetic and formal elements of composition. Gottlieb suggests that his paintings are not directly tied to words or concepts at the outset; rather, the visual language of the work comes first, and any verbal interpretation or explanation of the piece comes only after the creation process.

Gottlieb’s statement highlights the importance of intuition and visuality in abstract art. He places more value on the purely visual experience of creating, where the brushstrokes, shapes, and colors are the primary means of expression. The verbal component, or the ability to articulate what the artwork means, is secondary to the direct, emotional impact of the visual elements. For Gottlieb, the process of painting is about creating something that transcends words and can communicate on a deeper, more instinctual level.

At the same time, Gottlieb acknowledges that his personal experiences and emotions inevitably influence his work. While his initial focus is on the visual aspects of painting, he cannot separate his inner world from the creative process. The experiences he encounters, whether they are personal, cultural, or emotional, will inevitably enter into his painting, shaping the work even if it is not immediately apparent in the visual structure.

Ultimately, Gottlieb’s quote reflects the relationship between art and life, where the creation of visual art is not just an intellectual or aesthetic exercise but also a reflection of the artist's experiences and perceptions. He suggests that while art may start as an abstract, visual endeavor, it is inescapably shaped by the artist's broader human experience. This understanding is crucial in appreciating abstract expressionism, where meaning often emerges only through interpretation, allowing for a personal connection between the viewer and the artist's work.