Of course you draw from yourself, but the artistic nourishment you want to get is be versatile, do something different, and I think I got a chance to do that in a lot of different ways.

The quote "Of course you draw from yourself, but the artistic nourishment you want to get is be versatile, do something different, and I think I got a chance to do that in a lot of different ways" by Jimmy Smits reflects his philosophy on artistic growth and the importance of versatility in an actor's career. Smits acknowledges that an actor inevitably brings part of themselves into their roles, but the true artistic reward comes from exploring different characters and genres. By being open to diverse opportunities, an actor can expand their range and grow creatively.

Jimmy Smits, an acclaimed American actor known for his roles in shows like NYPD Blue and The West Wing, has played a variety of characters across television and film. This quote likely stems from his reflections on the diverse range of roles he has taken on over the years. For Smits, versatility allowed him to push the boundaries of his craft and keep his career dynamic, moving beyond any one type of role.

The phrase "artistic nourishment" suggests that an actor's creativity thrives when they challenge themselves with different experiences. For Smits, doing something different means stepping outside his comfort zone and seeking out opportunities that allow for growth and experimentation, rather than repeating the same kind of performance.

Ultimately, Smits’ words highlight the value of diversity and adaptability in an actor’s career. By embracing variety, he believes artists can avoid stagnation and instead continue to evolve. This mindset encourages actors to pursue a wide array of roles, fostering both personal and professional fulfillment.