The work of a master reeks not of the sweat of the brow - suggests no effort - and is finished from its beginning.
James WhistlerWe look at a painting to know the painter; it's his company we are after, not his skill.
James WhistlerI maintain that two and two would continue to make four, in spite of the whine of the amateur for three, or the cry of the critic for five.
James WhistlerThe masterpiece should appear as the flower to the painter - perfect in its bud as in its bloom - with no reason to explain its presence - no mission to fulfill - a joy to the artist, a delusion to the philanthropist - a puzzle to the botanist - an accident of sentiment and alliteration to the literary man.
James Whistler