In art one cannot have too much patience

Vincent van Gogh to Theo van Gogh, from The Hague, c. 11 March 1882

If I make serious studies after the model, it is much more practical than his practical talks about what is saleable or unsaleable; I do not need so much instruction on that as he supposes, having been in the business of selling pictures and drawings myself. So I would rather lose his friendship than give in to him in this matter.

Though there are moments when I feel overwhelmed by care, I am still calm, and my calmness is founded on my serious method of work and on earnest reflection. Though I have moments of passion aggravated by my temperament, yet I am calm, as he who has been acquainted with me so long knows quite well. Even now he said to me, “You have too much patience.”

That's not right - in art one cannot have too much patience - it's out of all proportion. Perhaps in my case Mr. Tersteeg has too little patience.

Letter 180
Translation courtesy of Robert Harrison.
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