One has to believe in what one is doing, one has to commit oneself inwardly, in order to do painting. Once obsessed, one ultimately carries it to the point of believing that one might change human beings through painting. But if one lacks this passionate commitment, there is nothing left to do. Then it is best to leave it alone.

But I was in awe of the painters; I mean I was new in New York, and I thought the painting that was going on here was just unbelievable

I'm quite taken aback when I get something that appears to be technically a good photograph, because it's not necessarily my intention.

A pair of socks is no less suitable to make a painting with than wood, nails, turpentine, oil and fabric.

While my classmates were reading their textbooks, I drew in the margins.

I don't mess around with my subconscious

With me, it's much more a matter of accepting whatever happens, accepting all these elements from the outside and then trying to work with them in a sort of free collaboration.