James E. Homans, editor

“ Bitter held that art should interpret the spirit of an age rather than record the whims and vagaries of the moment, which result in pettiness. As an artist he fought steadily for freedom, for self-expression, and for high ideals. There is scarcely a city in the land but is adorned by the rhythmic strength of Mr. Bitter's sculpture. ”

“ Bit- ter believed that sculpture should express the highest ideals of personal and national life; that the artist must be honest and uncompromising in his work, which should always aim to come as close to life as possible without being photographic. ”

“ It was a high tribute to his art when the authorities, upon seeing his plans for the general scheme of decoration, increased the appropriation for this purpose from $30,000 to $250,000, which sum kept about thirty-five artists and more than 100 assistants busy for more than one year. ”