Activity Quote by Howard Gardner
“There are clear differences between child and adult artistic activity. While the child may be aware that he is doing things differently from others, he does not fully appreciate the rules and conventions of symbolic realms; his adventurousness holds little significance. In contrast, the adult artist is fully cognizant of the norms embraced by others; his willingness, his compulsion, to reject convention is purchased, at the very least, with full knowledge of what he is doing and often at considerable psychic cost to himself.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Frames of Mind by Howard Gardner, 1983
Children create art without full awareness of rules, while adult artists knowingly reject conventions, often at personal psychological cost.
In simple terms: Adults consciously break artistic rules, children act instinctively.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the cost of intentional rebellion.
Themes
art
creativity
convention
psychology
Mood
analytical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
educational
When to use this quote
- art education
- creative workshops
- personal artistic practice
Key Concepts
developmental psychology
art theory
identity formation
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do you choose to break artistic norms?
- What personal costs arise from challenging conventions?
A Different Perspective
Rebellion without purpose can be self‑destructive.
