I am following Nature without being able to grasp her . . . . I perhaps owe having become a painter to flowers.

"No one is an artist unless he carries his picture in his head before painting it, and is sure of his method and composition."

"I waited for the idea to consolidate, for the grouping and composition of themes to settle themselves in my brain. When I felt I held enough cards I determined to pass to action, and did so."

"I would advise young artists . . . to paint as they can, as long as they can, without being afraid of painting badly . . . . If their painting doesn't improve by itself, it means that nothing can be done - and I wouldn't do anything!"

"The effect of sincerity is to give one's work the character of a protest. The painter being concerned only with conveying his impression, simply seeks to be himself and no one else."