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About this quote

What does it mean?
Art provides enduring mental nourishment; recalling visual experiences prevents loneliness and keeps the mind active.
In plain terms
Remembering what you have seen in art keeps you from feeling lonely or empty.
What can you take from it?
Keep a mental library of beautiful things to draw on when alone.

Where it applies

  • feeling isolated
  • needing inspiration
  • reflecting on past experiences

Putting it to work

  • keep a visual journal
  • visit galleries regularly
  • recall favorite scenes

Questions to consider

  • What is one image that stays with you?
  • How does recalling beauty affect your mood?

Another view

Not everyone has equal access to art or the ability to retain visual memories.

More from Vincent Willem Van Gogh

  1. How can I be useful, of what service can I be? There is something inside me, what can it be?

    Permalink to quote #31
  2. I always think that the best way to know God is to love many things.

    Permalink to quote #33
  3. Happiness... it lies in the joy of achievement, in the thrill of creative effort.

    Permalink to quote #30

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