If the man who paints only the tree, or flower, or other surface he sees before him were an artist, the king of artists would be the photographer. It is for the artist to do something beyond this. — James Whistler Copy Share Image
The masterpiece should appear as the flower to the painter - perfect in its bud as in its bloom - with no reason to explain its presence - no mission to fulfill - a joy to the artist, a delusion… — James Whistler Copy Share Image
Nature is very rarely right, to such an extent even, that it might almost be said that nature is usually wrong... — James Whistler Copy Share Image
I always ask at once, 'Do you drink?' and if she says 'No,' I bow politely and say I am sorry but I fear… — James Whistler Copy Share Image
Art is a goddess of dainty thought, reticent of habit, abjuring all obtrusiveness, purposing in no way to better others. She is, withal selfishly… — James Whistler Copy Share Image
To say of a picture, as is often said in its praise, that it shows great and earnest labour, is to say that it… — James Whistler Copy Share Image
I can't tell you if genius is hereditary, because heaven has granted me no offspring. — James Whistler Copy Share Image
I remember that at one time I always made a drawing before going to bed!! - Of myself I mean - though I finally… — James Whistler Copy Share Image
You shouldn't say it is not good. You should say, you do not like it; and then, you know, you're perfectly safe. — James Whistler Copy Share Image
