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I sit for two or three hours and then in 15 minutes I can…

“I sit for two or three hours and then in 15 minutes I can do a painting, but that's part of it. You have to get ready and decide to jump up and do it; you build yourself up psychologically, and so painting has no time for brush. Brush is boring, you give it and all of a sudden it's dry, you have…” quote by Cy Twombly
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“I sit for two or three hours and then in 15 minutes I can do a painting, but that's part of it. You have to get ready and decide to jump up and do it; you build yourself up psychologically, and so painting has no time for brush. Brush is boring, you give it and all of a sudden it's dry, you have to go. Before you cut the thought, you know?”

Cy Twombly

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Painting requires mental readiness and decisive action; the act itself is swift, but preparation is key.

In simple terms: Mental readiness precedes swift creation.

Key Takeaway

Prepare mentally before creative acts.

Themes

creativity preparation action

Mood

thoughtful artistic

Type

philosophical practical

When to use this quote

  • painting
  • performance
  • teaching

Key Concepts

visual arts psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance preparation and spontaneity?
  • What mental states aid your creativity?
A Different Perspective

Over‑preparation can stifle spontaneity.

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