"One can't paint New York as it is, but rather as it is felt"

This quote by Georgia O'Keeffe speaks with the idea that art is not an actual representation of reality, however rather a reflection of the emotions and feelings that the musician experiences. O'Keeffe is recommending that when painting New York, one should not concentrate on the physical details of the city, but instead the emotions that it stimulates. She is emphasizing the significance of catching the essence of a place, rather than merely its physical attributes. O'Keeffe is recommending that art must be an expression of the musician's sensations and also experiences, instead of a literal representation of truth. This quote talks to the concept that art is a type of self-expression, which it should be made use of to share the emotions and sensations of the musician. O'Keeffe is emphasizing the relevance of catching the essence of a place, as opposed to merely its physical features.