My father was an eminent button-maker at Birmingham, . . . but I
had a soul above buttons.

My father was an eminent button-maker at Birmingham, . . . but I
had a soul above buttons.

My soul is continually in my hand: yet do I not forget thy law.

My soul is continually in my hand: yet do I not forget thy law.

Drawing is the true test of art.

Drawing is the true test of art.

The least strength suffices to break what is bruised.
[Lat., Minimae vires frangere quassa valent.]

The least strength suffices to break what is bruised.
[Lat., Minimae vires frangere quassa valent.]

There is one thing one has to have: either a soul that is cheerful by nature, or a soul made read more

There is one thing one has to have: either a soul that is cheerful by nature, or a soul made cheerful by work, love, art, and knowledge.

As all Nature's thousands changes
But one changeless God proclaim;
So in Art's wide kingdom ranges
read more

As all Nature's thousands changes
But one changeless God proclaim;
So in Art's wide kingdom ranges
One sole meaning still the same:
This is Truth, eternal Reason,
Which from Beauty takes its dress,
And serene through time and season
Stands aye in loveliness.

Art is the proper task of life.

Art is the proper task of life.

Cunning is strength withheld.

Cunning is strength withheld.

Do not pray for easy lives. Pray to be stronger men! Do no pray for tasks equal to your powers. read more

Do not pray for easy lives. Pray to be stronger men! Do no pray for tasks equal to your powers. Pray for power equal to your tasks.