Art is not a study of positive reality, it is the seeking for ideal truth.

The eye is continually influenced by what it cannot detect; nay, it is not going too far, to say that it is most influenced by what it detects least. Let the painter define, if he can, the variations of lines on which depend the change of expression in the human countenance.

To cultivate sympathy you must be among living creatures, and thinking about them; and to cultivate admiration, you must be among beautiful things and looking at them.

The constant duty of every man to his fellows is to ascertain his own powers and special gifts, and to strengthen them for the help of others.

Imaginary evils soon become real one by indulging our reflections on them.

Every hue throughout your work is altered by every touch you add in other places.

A little thought and a little kindness are often worth more than a great deal of money.