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About this quote

What does it mean?
Art captures feelings rather than physical reality.
In plain terms
I paint how things make me feel, not what they look like.
What can you take from it?
Paint feelings instead of objects.

Where it applies

  • painting
  • storytelling
  • creative interpretation

Putting it to work

  • focus on emotion
  • express inner state
  • interpret reality

Questions to consider

  • Do you paint objects or feelings?
  • How does emotion shape your view?

Another view

Pure emotion may alienate viewers seeking clarity.

More from Henri Matisse

  1. As I create these colored cutouts, it seems to me that I advance joyfully to meet whatever awaits. I do not believe I have ever experienced such peace and harm…

    Permalink to quote #27

  2. I don't paint things. I only paint the difference between things.

    Permalink to quote #29

  3. A young painter who cannot liberate himself from the influence of past generations is digging his own grave.

    Permalink to quote #26

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