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Pain is such an important thing in life. I think that as an artist you have to experience suffering.

Sometimes as an artist you get wrapped up in what you are doing and you can't be objective.

Part of being an artist is that you are always concerned you don't have what it takes. It... keeps us honest.

In fact, most artists want to make things a bit more difficult for themselves as they go along, to challenge themselves.

You tend to find the best in yourself as an artist when you're challenged.

If you're not an optimist, forget being an artist.

I think it's the pain and suffering that drive you to become an artist. The art itself should be the pain, sort of exorcising every demon and making you feel like you're a person that matters.

For me, the best way to be as an artist is to be completely yourself, letting that vulnerability come through.

Being an artist is not easy - I have always said that to the students I have taught over the years. It's a huge sacrifice.

Art gives me the freedom I don't have when I make music.