advice to students...

"the work of the art student is no light matter. few have the courage and stamina to see it through. you have to make up your mind to be alone in many ways. we like sympathy and we like to be in company. it is easier than going it alone. but alone one gets acquainted with himself, grows up and on, not stopping with the crowd. it costs to do this. if you succeed somewhat you may have to pay for it as well as enjoy it all your life... don't worry about the rejections. everybody that's good has gone through it. don't let it matter if your works are not 'accepted' at once. the better or more personal you are the less likely  of acceptance. just remember that the object of painting pictures is not simply to get them in exhibitions. it is all very fine to have your pictures hung, but you are painting for yourself, not for the jury. i had many years of rejections..."

robert henri, circa 1915