The pure, frank sentiments we hold in our hearts are the only truthful sources of art.

The divine is everywhere, even in a grain of sand; there I represented it in the reeds.

I must stay alone and know that I am alone to contemplate and feel nature in full; I have to surrender myself to what encircles me, I have to merge with my clouds and rocks in order to be what I am.

The eye and fantasy feel more attracted by nebulous distance than by that which is close and distinct in front of us.

You call me a misanthrope because I avoid society. You err; I love society. Yet in order not to hate people, I must avoid their company.

Close your bodily eye, that you may see your picture first with the eye of the spirit. Then bring to light what you have seen in the darkness, that its effect may work back, from without to within.

A painting which does not take its inspiration from the heart is nothing more than futile juggling.