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Freedom to investigate and express became a crucial aspect of Richter's artistic journey. Gerhard Richter, a renowned German painter born in 1932, grew up during the tumultuous period of Nazi rule and witnessed the devastation caused by the war. When he started painting in West Germany in the 1960s, the country was still grappling with the trauma and guilt of the war crimes committed by the Nazi regime.

In this context, the notion of freedom to investigate and express took on multiple dimensions for Richter and other artists of his generation. On one hand, it represented the freedom to explore and confront the difficult and painful aspects of Germany's past, including the atrocities committed during the war. Richter, in his art, often addressed historical themes, including the Holocaust, war, and political violence, but he did so in an abstract and contemplative manner. Through his works, he sought to engage with the past without being overly explicit, allowing viewers to approach these sensitive topics with their own interpretations and emotions.

On the other hand, the freedom to investigate and express also meant the liberty to explore new artistic approaches and styles. Richter was part of a generation that witnessed the emergence of various art movements, such as Abstract Expressionism and Pop Art. As a versatile artist, he experimented with different techniques, ranging from photorealism to abstraction, and frequently blurred the lines between representation and ambiguity. This artistic freedom enabled Richter to continually evolve and challenge himself, refusing to be confined to a particular style or ideology.

Richter's commitment to freedom of expression also extended beyond his art, as he openly discussed his thoughts and views on various topics, including politics and art theory. He advocated for artists' independence and their right to explore their creativity without external constraints.

In conclusion, Gerhard Richter's artistic journey in post-war Germany was shaped by the complex interplay of investigating and expressing the country's difficult past while embracing the freedom to explore new artistic territories. His approach to art and his willingness to confront challenging subjects in an open and abstract manner continue to make him an influential figure in contemporary art.