53 Quotes by Billy Childish

I've not been an admirer of contemporary music since punk rock went off the boil in 1977, but once a year I'll listen to 'Spiral Scratch' by the Buzzcocks, or 'Hippy Hippy Shake' by the Swinging Blue Jeans. Otherwise, I can put up with Chopin or shakuhachi flute in the background.

I've dubbed myself as an amateur, not because I work in different field, but because I do what I do for love.

My favourite things are jokes, friendliness and feeling comfortable.

People could live very happily without the Turner Prize, but they could not live without real communication and emotion.

I've always liked New York, as I like towns with an edge and New York has a European feel, so when I came to play music here in the '80s it was a surprise to me.

I'm not trying to achieve perfection. I don't like this forced control people have over work.

I don't spend a lot of time working if I can help it.

I like feeling at home and knowing people. I like talking about ideas and being friendly.

I make sure I make a painting - that's my job. And I cook the Sunday dinner.