Current Obstacle

[Philosofist]

Although very off topic in a way, I've been pondering about Van Gough's meaning when he says,
"As a painter I shall never signify anything of importance. I feel it absolutely."
Would like some interpretations on this. As I'm still trying to find my own...I'm waiting for an epiphany so I won't check this until I go "OH! that's what he means." But feel free to explain. Here it is again...

"As a painter I shall never signify anything of importance. I feel it absolutely." -Van Gough

[Philosofist]

OH! I think he is trying to say, rather than trying to observe and point out that something is important, like honesty, or patience, you feel it absolutely, meaning you live it as an example. So rather than a poster that informs directly, as it's purpose is to point you in a direction other than itself, a painting's entire purpose is to live as that direction pointed to, and because it isn't in your face, it subtly speaks to you, and allows self realization. Well, that's how I see it.

[SafeNSure]

...well since you had your epiphany, and left this up here, I won't feel bad giving you my reading of Van Gogh's quote.
:)

I think that growing up artistically during the Impressionism period, and reacting to it, until becoming the one that inspired Expressionism, he was stimulated to depict reality with an emotional effect, making his painting less of a descriptive art form, and more of a subjective impulse.
Thus, not "signifying" (describing, meaning) something, but expressing an absolute personal feeling through his paint work...

Also, I'm going to give you my favorite art related quote, which is (slightly more) parkour related:
"Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up."
Pablo Picasso

;)