September 2005

Gerhard Richter made this painting, called 'September', with oils, but the date is unknown. The colors are muted, mostly greys and blues, and the way he's applied the paint makes me think about how artmaking is a process of layering and revealing. Looking closely, the texture is really important here. The paint isn't thick or gloopy; it's thin and almost transparent in places. You can see the canvas underneath. The horizontal strokes give it a sense of movement. In the center, there are these vertical lines that feel like ghosts or afterimages. I am reminded of his Photo Paintings, but of course, this painting does not have the same origin. This piece plays with ambiguity. Richter’s art always feels like a conversation, like he's talking back to other artists and ideas. It’s not about giving you one clear answer, but opening up a space for you to think and feel.