Man Ray's Quotes

An original is a creation motivated by desire. Any reproduction of an originals motivated be necessity. It is marvelous that we are the only species that creates gratuitous forms. To create is divine, to reproduce is human.”
- Man Ray

It has never been my object to record my dreams, just the determination to realize them.”
- Man Ray

A creator needs only one enthusiast to justify him.”
- Man Ray

Of course, there will always be those who look only at technique, who ask 'how', while others of a more curious nature will ask 'why'. Personally, I have always preferred inspiration to information.”
- Man Ray

I paint what cannot be photographed, that which comes from the imagination or from dreams, or from an unconscious drive.”
- Man Ray

I photograph the things that I do not wish to paint, the things which already have an existence.”
- Man Ray

One of the satisfactions of a genius is his will-power and obstinacy.”
- Man Ray

All critics should be assassinated. ”
- Man Ray

Don't put my name on it. These are simply documents I make.”
- Man Ray

To me, a painter, if not the most useful, is the least harmful member of our society.”
- Man Ray