Skip to content

Art Quote by Jane Hirshfield

“The desire of monks and mystics is not unlike that of artists: to perceive the extraordinary within the ordinary by changing not the world but the eyes that look.” quote by Jane Hirshfield
Download Open image
““The desire of monks and mystics is not unlike that of artists: to perceive the extraordinary within the ordinary by changing not the world but the eyes that look.””

Jane Hirshfield

About This Quote

Source Poem: “Monks and Artists,” 2015

Artists and mystics seek to reveal wonder in the everyday by altering perception rather than altering reality.

In simple terms: Seeing the ordinary as extraordinary through changed perception.

Key Takeaway

Shift your view to find wonder.

Themes

perception wonder mindfulness

Mood

contemplative hopeful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • daily meditation
  • creative practice
  • mindful walking

Key Concepts

art spirituality philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you train your eyes to see differently?
  • What ordinary moments hold hidden extraordinary?
A Different Perspective

Changing perception can be challenging without practice.

2.9 out of 5 (5 ratings)

More by Jane Hirshfield

Explore all 156 Jane Hirshfield quotes

More Art quotes

Browse all 48,643 Art quotes