To find a kindred soul . . .

Today is the birthday of Camille Pissarro (July 10, 1830 - November 13, 1903), Impressionist painter. He was known as the Father of Impressionism, an inspiration to many young artists during his life and especially, as a mentor to Paul Cézanne and Paul Gauguin.

Boulevard Monmartre in Paris

Camille Pissarro

oil on canvas (1897)

29 1/8 x 36 1/2 in. (74 x 92.8 cm)

Hermitage Museum

St. Petersburg, Russia

"Blessed are they who see beautiful things in humble places where other people see nothing." - Camille Pissarro

"Everything is beautiful, all that matters is to be able to interpret." - Camille Pissarro

"Painting, art in general, enchants me. It is my life. What else matters? When you put all your soul into a work, all that is noble in you, you cannot fail to find a kindred soul who understands you, and you do not need a host of such spirits. Is not that all an artist should wish for?" - Camille Pissarro