"I would sooner paint people's eyes than cathedrals, for there is something in the eyes that is lacking in a cathedral - however solemn and impressive it may be."

"Take our sister Wil, she has neither drunk nor led a wild life, and yet we know a photograph of her in which she has the look of a madwoman."

"He understands, that goes without saying, that he has had a bout of insanity and this thought grieves and revolts him at the same time."

"If something in you yourself says 'you aren't a painter' — IT'S THEN THAT YOU SHOULD PAINT, old chap, and that voice will be silenced too, but precisely because of that."

"Occasionally, in times of worry, I've longed to be stylish, but on second thought I say no—just let me be myself—and express rough, yet true things with rough workmanship."