Henri Matisse

Derive happiness in oneself from a good day's work, from illuminating the fog that surrounds us.

I have always tried to hide my efforts and wished my works to have a light joyousness of springtime which never lets anyone suspect the labors it has cost me.

I don't know whether I believe in God or not. I think, really, I'm some sort of Buddhist. But the essential thing is to put oneself in a frame of mind which is close to that of prayer.

In the beginning you must subject yourself to the influence of nature. You must be able to walk firmly on the ground before you start walking on a tightrope.

An artist must possess Nature. He must identify himself with her rhythm, by efforts that will prepare the mastery which will later enable him to express himself in his own language.

A picture must possess a real power to generate light and for a long time now I've been conscious of expressing myself through light or rather in light.

Creativity takes courage.

There is nothing more difficult for a truly creative painter than to paint a rose, because before he can do so he has first to forget all the roses that were ever painted.

Work cures everything.

It is only after years of preparation that the young artist should touch color - not color used descriptively, that is, but as a means of personal expression.