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Art Quote by Winsor McCay

“The principle factor in my success has been an absolute desire to draw constantly. I never decided to be an artist. Simply, I couldn't stop myself from drawing. I drew for my own pleasure. I never wanted to know whether or not someone liked my drawings. I have never kept one of my drawings. I drew…” quote by Winsor McCay
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“The principle factor in my success has been an absolute desire to draw constantly. I never decided to be an artist. Simply, I couldn't stop myself from drawing. I drew for my own pleasure. I never wanted to know whether or not someone liked my drawings. I have never kept one of my drawings. I drew on walls, the school blackboard, odd bits of paper, the walls of barns. Today I'm still as fond of drawings as when I was a kid - and that was a long time ago - but, surprising as it may seem, I never thought about the money I would receive for my drawings. I simply drew them.”

Winsor McCay

About This Quote

Source Interview: Art and Life, Winsor McCay, 1915

A relentless drive to draw fuels artistic success, independent of external validation or financial reward.

In simple terms: Passion for drawing leads to mastery without chasing fame.

Key Takeaway

Draw for joy, not for approval.

Themes

creativity passion discipline self‑motivation artistic integrity

Mood

focused hopeful

Type

motivational inspirational

When to use this quote

  • daily sketching
  • personal projects
  • educational settings
  • community murals

Key Concepts

intrinsic motivation habit formation flow state

Questions to Reflect On

  • What habits keep your creative spark alive?
  • How do you balance personal joy with professional demands?
A Different Perspective

Reliance on internal drive may ignore practical needs like income.

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