It's impossible to make a picture without values. Values are the basis. If they are not, tell me what is the basis.

Painting is the only universal language. All nature is creation's picture book. Painting alone can describe every thing which can be seen, and suggest every emotion which can be felt. Art reaches back into the babyhood of time, and is man's only lasting monument.

The mission of art is to represent nature not to imitate her.

Nature is economical. She puts her lights and darks only where she needs them.

It's impossible to make a picture without values. Values are the basis. If they are not, tell me what is the basis.

I don't like persuaded sitters. I never could paint a cat if the cat had any scruples, religious, superstitious, or otherwise, about sitting.

Inspiration is nothing without work.