Jasper johns

I think a painting should include more experience than simply intended statement.

I often find that having an idea in my head prevents me from doing something else. Working is therefore a way of getting rid of an idea.

I don't know how to organise thoughts. I don't know how to have thoughts.

To me, self-description is a calamity.

I am just trying to find a way to make pictures.

Sometime during the mid-50s I said, 'I am an artist.' Before that, for many years, I had said, 'I'm going to be an artist.' Then I went through a change of mind and a change of heart. What made 'going...

I never wish for critics.

I love drawings, so I've always enjoyed making drawings that exist on their own.

Most of the power of painting comes through the manipulation of space... but I don't understand that.

One works without thinking how to work.