Bill Reid was a master artist, storyteller, and cultural icon whose words carry deep wisdom. His quotes reflect his Haida heritage, artistic vision, and thoughts on life. Whether you’re an artist, a dreamer, or someone looking for inspiration, Reid’s words have something for you.
Bill Reid on Art and Creativity
Art wasn’t just a job for Reid—it was his life. His quotes on creativity remind us that art is more than technique; it’s about connection.
🔹 “The artist is not a special kind of person; rather, each person is a special kind of artist.”
🔹 “Art is the only way to run away without leaving home.”
🔹 “If the white man wants to call it art, fine. To us, it’s just part of our lives.”
🔹 “The line between art and life should be kept as fluid and indistinct as possible.”
🔹 “Creativity is allowing yourself to make mistakes. Art is knowing which ones to keep.”
Ever felt stuck in a creative rut? Reid’s words push us to see art as something natural, not forced.
Bill Reid on Culture and Identity
Reid’s Haida roots shaped his worldview. His quotes on culture are powerful reminders of heritage and belonging.
🔹 “We are all born with a certain inheritance—our culture, our history, our ancestors.”
🔹 “The past is not behind us; it’s within us.”
🔹 “You don’t have to be Haida to understand Haida art. You just have to be human.”
🔹 “Culture is not what you wear or perform. It’s who you are.”
🔹 “A people without history are like trees without roots.”
His words challenge us to think about our own roots. What does culture mean to you?
Bill Reid on Nature and the World
Reid saw nature as a teacher. His quotes reflect deep respect for the earth and its wisdom.
🔹 “The land does not belong to us. We belong to the land.”
🔹 “Nature doesn’t hurry, yet everything gets done.”
🔹 “The trees, the rivers, the mountains—they are all storytellers.”
🔹 “We are not separate from nature. We are nature.”
🔹 “The earth has music for those who listen.”
In a fast-moving world, Reid’s words remind us to slow down and listen.
Bill Reid on Life and Wisdom
Life lessons from Reid are timeless. His quotes make you pause and think.
🔹 “The only real failure is the failure to try.”
🔹 “You don’t find yourself. You create yourself.”
🔹 “Patience is not the ability to wait, but how you act while waiting.”
🔹 “The more you know, the less you need.”
🔹 “Life is too short to be small.”
Simple, but profound. Which one hits home for you?
Bill Reid on Perseverance and Success
Reid’s journey wasn’t easy. His quotes on persistence inspire action.
🔹 “Great things are done by a series of small things brought together.”
🔹 “Success is stumbling from failure to failure with no loss of enthusiasm.”
🔹 “The harder you work, the luckier you get.”
🔹 “Don’t watch the clock; do what it does—keep going.”
🔹 “Obstacles are those frightful things you see when you take your eyes off the goal.”
Ever felt like giving up? Reid’s words remind us that progress beats perfection.
Final Thoughts
Bill Reid’s quotes are more than words—they’re lessons. Whether it’s art, culture, nature, or life, his wisdom stays relevant. Which quote stuck with you the most? Keep it close, and let it guide you.
📌 Want more inspiration? Dive into Reid’s artwork. His carvings and sculptures bring his words to life.