Even when I have to write a simple letter I'm scared stiff as if faced with looming seasickness.

I have never painted a self-portrait. I am less interested in myself as a subject for a painting than I am in other people, above all women... There is nothing special about me. I am a painter who paints day after day from morning to night... Who ever wants to know something about me... ought to look carefully at my pictures.

Although even when I am being idle I have plenty of food for thought both early and late - thoughts both about and not about art.

On my first days here I did not start work immediately but, as planned, I took it easy for a few days - flicked through books, studied Japanese art a little.

Art is a line around your thoughts.

I can paint and draw. I believe this myself and a few other people say that they believe this too. But I'm not certain of whether it's true.

After tea it's back to painting - a large poplar at dusk with a gathering storm. From time to time instead of this evening painting session I go bowling in one of the neighbouring villages, but not very often.