Response To Art

When we go to museums we do not just look, we make a definite response to to the work. As we look at it we are happier or more sad, more at peace or more depressed. A work may stimulate yearning, helplessness, belligerence or remorse. The cause of the response is not traceable in the work. An artist cannot and does not prepare for a certain response. He does not consider the response but simply follows his inspiration. Works of art not purposely conceived. The response depends upon the condition of the observer.

-Agnes Martin -Writings