Adults Quote by Peter Schjeldahl
“Artists are people who are subject to irrational convictions of the sacred. Baudelaire said that an artist is a child who has acquired adult capacities and discipline. Art education should help build those capacities and that discipline without messing over the child.”
About This Quote
Art thrives on deep, often irrational reverence for the sacred, while also demanding disciplined skill development. Education should nurture both the innate wonder of the child and the structured mastery of the adult.
In simple terms: Balancing childlike wonder with adult discipline.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate wonder and skill together.
Themes
Creativity
Discipline
Sacredness
Education
Childhood
Artistic Development
Mood
Inspirational
Reflective
Optimistic
Type
Philosophical
Educational
Observational
When to use this quote
- Teaching art to beginners
- Mentoring emerging artists
- Designing curricula for creative schools
- Facilitating workshops for youth
- Guiding adult learners in creative fields
Key Concepts
Irrational conviction
Adult capacities
Art education
Childhood essence
Practical Applications
- Developing balanced art programs
- Mentoring artists to retain curiosity
Questions to Reflect On
- How can educators preserve youthful curiosity while imposing necessary rigor?
- What practices best integrate imagination with technical mastery?
![“He [an earnest young reporter] seemed to share the view of many intelligent, well-educated, well-meaning people that, while adult literature may aim to be art, the object of children's books is to whip the little rascals into shape.” quote by Katherine Paterson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/2cf/katherine-paterson-2365_adults_he-an-earnest-young-reporter-seemed-to-s_6101.jpg)
