“Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.”
- October 25, 1881 – April 8, 1973
- Born in Spain
- Painter, sculptor, printmaker
- Founder of Cubism, he had a revolutionary influence on 20th century art, leaving behind masterpieces such as “Guernica”
Quote
“Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.”
Explanation
In this quote, Picasso highlights the innate creativity and artistic expression that every child possesses. Children, free from the limitations of societal norms and expectations, naturally engage in spontaneous and uninhibited creative acts. Picasso implies that as we grow older, we tend to lose this pure and unrestrained creativity due to the pressures of adult life, where conformity and practicality often take precedence. The challenge, according to Picasso, is not about becoming an artist but about maintaining that childlike sense of freedom and imagination as we mature. He believed that the key to great art lies in the ability to retain the wonder and freshness of childhood creativity, even as we face the complexities and demands of adulthood.
This idea is highly relevant today, as modern culture often emphasizes the importance of productivity, achievement, and practicality over creative expression. Picasso’s quote reminds us that in a world filled with routine and responsibility, artistic thinking—whether in the form of problem-solving, design, or personal expression—can be lost. Embracing the creativity of childhood, where play and exploration are central, is essential for fostering innovation and personal fulfillment as adults.
An example of this can be seen in the way entrepreneurs or innovators like Elon Musk or Steve Jobs approached their work, often embracing creative problem-solving and thinking outside the box, much like a child playing with ideas without fear of failure. Similarly, artists like Banksy or Yayoi Kusama continue to push boundaries and maintain the spontaneity of their early artistic explorations. Picasso’s quote serves as a reminder to nurture our inner creativity, despite the pressures of adult life, and to never lose sight of the artistic potential we all have.
