Art Quote by Joshua Reynolds
“I wish you to be persuaded that success in your art depends almost entirely on your own industry; but the industry which I principally recommend is not the industry of the hands, but of the mind.”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: on the Theory and Practice of Painting, 1765
Success in art relies more on mental effort than manual labor, emphasizing intellectual industry over physical work.
In simple terms: Art success needs mental work, not just hand work.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate disciplined thinking and planning.
Themes
creativity
discipline
artistry
Mood
inspirational
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- painting
- writing
- design projects
- entrepreneurial ventures
Key Concepts
mindset
self‑reliance
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you apply mental industry to your creative process?
- What habits develop intellectual productivity?
A Different Perspective
Physical skill alone cannot replace strategic thinking.
