"I have always tried to hide my efforts and wished my works to have a light joyousness of springtime which never lets anyone suspect the labors it has cost me"

This quote by Henri Matisse speaks to the artist's desire to produce artworks that appear effortless and happy. He wants his works to have a lightness and joy that belies the effort and effort that went into producing them. Matisse is expressing his desire to produce art that is beautiful and enjoyable, however also communicates the effort and labor that went into it. He wishes to be able to show the audience the hard work and dedication that entered into producing the piece, without it being too apparent. He wishes to have the ability to conceal his efforts and develop something that is light and joyful, however still conveys the hard work and dedication that entered into it. Matisse's quote speaks to the concept that art ought to be enjoyable and lovely, but also convey the effort and labor that went into creating it.