Charles E. Burchfield, Journals, September 6, 1914

Last night when I was finished with making a sketch of petunias, I remarked to Mother that I was wearied of it, and she wondered why. I said I did not like to draw such things. She asked me what I did like. I said I did not know, fearing to say what was at the bottom of my soul. She chided me then for not knowing what I liked, and then I said I wanted to paint scenes, expecting a storm. She said, “Then you’re going to be an artist?” I said “yes.” She said, “Here I thought you were going to be a designer,” but smiled and kissed me. A mother is always surprising you. You may think she is wonderful but she is always doing something so unexpectedly loving and understanding that she is like nature — ever new.

Charles E. Burchfield
September 6, 1914
Journal Volume 20, Page 11

Charles Burchfield: By Design is on view from September 12 - December 29, 2013.