Mary Cassatt, born on May 22, 1844, in Allegheny City, Pennsylvania, was an American painter known for her significant contributions to the Impressionist movement. She was raised in a well-to-do family that encouraged her interest in art from a young age. Cassatt studied art in Philadelphia and later traveled to Europe to further her education.

In Paris, Cassatt found her artistic niche and became closely associated with the Impressionist circle, particularly Edgar Degas, whose influence can be seen in her work. Cassatt’s paintings often depicted intimate, everyday scenes of women and children, showcasing her mastery of light, color, and composition. She was particularly renowned for her tender and insightful portrayals of the mother-child relationship, which resonated deeply with audiences.

Despite facing challenges as a woman in the male-dominated art world of the time, Cassatt persisted and gained recognition for her talent and innovative approach. She exhibited alongside the Impressionists in Paris and was the only American artist to do so consistently.

Mary Cassatt passed away on June 14, 1926, leaving behind a legacy of groundbreaking art that continues to inspire and influence artists to this day. Her contributions to the Impressionist movement and her portrayal of the complexities of women’s lives ensure her enduring place in the annals of art history.

Mary Cassatt Quotes

1. “Women should be someone and not something.”
— Mary Cassatt

2. “I am independent! I can live alone and I love to work.”
— Mary Cassatt

3. “I have touched with a sense of art some people-they felt the love and the life. Can you offer me anything to compare to that joy for an artist?”
— Mary Cassatt

4. “World will suffice for me in the future.”
— Mary Cassatt

5. “If painting is no longer needed, it seems a pity that some of us are born into the world with such a passion for line and color.”
— Mary Cassatt

6. “I think that if you shake the tree, you ought to be around when the fruit falls to pick it up.”
— Mary Cassatt

7. “It changed my life. I saw art then as I wanted to see it.”
— Mary Cassatt

8. “Acceptance, under someone else’s terms, is worse than rejection.”
— Mary Cassatt

9. “There are two ways for a painter: the broad and easy one or the narrow and hard one.”
— Mary Cassatt

10. “I used to go and flatten my nose against that window and absorb all I could of his art. It changed my life. I saw art then as I wanted to see it.”
— Mary Cassatt

11. “Why do people so love to wander? I think the civilized parts of the world will suffice for me in the future.”
— Mary Cassatt

12. “It is as well not to have too great an admiration for your master’s work. You will be in less danger of imitating him.”
— Mary Cassatt

13. “At some future time I shall see New York the artist’s ground. I think you will create an American School.”
— Mary Cassatt