Pablo Picasso: 'Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.'

Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.

The quote by Pablo Picasso, "Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up," encapsulates the inherent creativity and imagination that children possess. It suggests that as we grow older, we tend to lose touch with our artistic abilities and struggle to maintain that artistic mindset. This quote highlights the importance of nurturing and preserving our creativity and raises the question of why it becomes more challenging to do so as we mature.At first glance, the quote seems straightforward, urging us to hold onto the artistic qualities we possessed in our childhood. But digging deeper, we encounter a fascinating philosophical concept: the dichotomy between the child and the adult mind. Children approach the world with uninhibited curiosity, boundless imagination, and a willingness to explore without fear of judgment. They effortlessly let their creative essence flow through art, play, and imagination. However, somewhere along the journey of growing up, we often develop self-doubt, external pressures, and societal expectations that can dampen our artistic spirit.The contrast between the child and the adult mind offers a captivating lens through which to explore the struggle many face in retaining their artistic spark. As children, we are encouraged to draw, paint, and express ourselves artistically. It is deemed a natural part of our development, fostering cognitive and emotional growth. Yet, as we enter the realms of adulthood, practicality, responsibility, and the pursuit of success take precedence.The educational system plays a significant role in this transition. It often prioritizes academic subjects over creative endeavors, relegating artistic expression to extracurricular activities. As young adults, we are steered toward professions that are socially and financially secure, often overlooking the pursuit of art. This shift in focus can lead to the gradual erosion of our artistic abilities unless we actively seek to preserve and cultivate them.Moreover, societal expectations can be stifling. The pressure to conform to predefined norms and definitions of success can inhibit our creative instincts. In a world that values conformity and practicality, the artist within us may struggle to find its place. This struggle is further amplified by the fear of failure, self-criticism, and the constant comparison to others. Such external and internal pressures can dampen our artistic spirit, leaving us disconnected from the natural creativity we possessed as children.To remain an artist once we grow up, we must take conscious steps to reconnect with our creative instincts. Herein lies the crux of the matter—how can we preserve the childlike wonder and artistic flair while navigating the complexities of adulthood? One approach is to embrace the idea of unlearning and relearning, shedding the limitations imposed on us and rediscovering our innate creativity. It requires a willingness to challenge societal expectations, overcome self-doubt, and let go of the fear of judgment.Engaging in activities that foster creativity can help rejuvenate our artistic side. Whether it's painting, sculpting, writing, or even exploring unconventional methods, such activities offer an outlet for self-expression. Surrounding ourselves with like-minded individuals who value and nurture artistic pursuits can also fuel our creativity. Collaboration and sharing ideas can inspire us, enabling us to approach our craft with renewed passion.Another vital aspect of maintaining the mindset of an artist is embracing failure as a catalyst for growth. Much like a child who fearlessly experiments and learns from their mistakes, we must adopt a similar perspective. Viewing failure as a learning experience rather than a sign of incompetence allows us to refine our skills and take creative risks. By embracing the process and letting go of the obsession with perfectionism, we can unlock our artistic potential.In conclusion, Picasso's quote reminds us that the child within us holds the key to our artistic selves. It serves as a poignant call to action—to cherish, nurture, and preserve our artistic abilities as we journey through the complexities of adulthood. By unlearning and relearning, challenging societal expectations, and embracing failure as a learning experience, we can navigate the delicate balance of remaining artists once we grow up. Through this conscious effort, we can reconnect with our innate creativity and reclaim the joy, passion, and limitless imagination that defines us as artists.