High art consists neither in altering, nor in improving nature; but in seeking throughout nature for 'whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are pure;' in loving these, in displaying to the utmost of the painter's power such loveliness as is in them, and directing the thoughts of others to them by winning art, or gentle emphasis.
John RuskinIt is advisable that a person know at least three things, where they are, where they are going, and what they had best do under the circumstances.
John RuskinThe strength and power of a country depends absolutely on the quantity of good men and women in it.
John RuskinWe are, after all, only trustees of the wealth we possess. Without the community and its resources... there would be little wealth for anyone.
John RuskinNearly all the evils in the Church have arisen from bishops desiring power more than light. They want authority, not outlook.
John RuskinIt is strange that of all the pieces of the Bible which my mother taught me, that which cost me the most to learn, and which was to my childish mind the most repulsive - Psalm 119 - has now become of all the most precious to me in its overflowing and glorious passion of love for the Law of God.
John Ruskin