Art Quote by Margaret Wertheim
“Seeing and playing with physical objects can enable access to symbolic ideas. When I studied physics and math at university it was all done through equations and textbooks whereas artists go to art school and start making stuff; they fling paint at the walls, they dance and bash things together with giant bits of metal. Our society has come to think of science as being a very abstractified thing, and art as being a materialized thing.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: The Art of Science, 2013
Physical interaction with objects can bridge concrete experience and abstract concepts, unlike purely symbolic learning.
In simple terms: Hands‑on work links ideas to reality.
Key Takeaway
Engage physically with concepts.
Themes
learning
creativity
interdisciplinary
Mood
inquisitive
thoughtful
Type
observation
philosophical
When to use this quote
- science labs
- art studios
- education workshops
Key Concepts
embodiment
symbolic thought
materiality
Questions to Reflect On
- How can tactile methods enhance abstract subjects?
- What limits do symbols have?
A Different Perspective
Practical work may not capture all abstract nuance.
