Do the Unexpected

"Manet did not do the expected. He was a pioneer. He followed his individual whim. Told the public what he wanted it to know, not the timeworn things the public already knew and thought it wanted to hear again. The public was very much offended." 

- Robert Henri, The Art Spirit, pp. 206-7.

Manet, Luncheon on the Grass, 1863

"Art must take reality by surprise." 

- Francoise Sagan

Manet, Olympia, 1863

A nice blend of prediction and surprise seem to be at the heart of the best art.

- Wendy Carlos

Manet, The Races at Longchamps, 1864

The real artist’s work is a surprise to himself.

- Robert Henri

Manet, The Railway, 1872

"Do not know yourself.  I want to continue to surprise me."

- Arielle Dombasle

Manet, A Bar at the Folies-Bergere, 1882