Conciseness in art is essential and a refinement. The concise man makes one think; the verbose bores. Always work towards conciseness.

There are no lines in nature, only areas of colour, one against another.

Concision in art is a necessity and an elegance. The verbose painter bores: who will get rid of all these trimmings?

I would kiss you, had I the courage.

In a face, look for the main light and the main shadow; the rest will come naturally — it's often not important. And then you must cultivate your memory, because Nature will only provide you with references. Nature is like a warden in a lunatic asylum. It stops you from becoming banal.

The principal person in a picture is light.

Who is this Monet whose name sounds just like mine and who is taking advantage of my notoriety?