“I would have a workshop attached to every school, and one hour a day given up to the teaching of simple decorative arts. It would be a golden hour to the children.”
- October 16, 1854 – November 30, 1900
- Irish
- Author, poet, playwright
- Written novels, plays, and poems such as “The Picture of Dorian Gray,” “The Importance of Being Earnest,” and “Salome,” he had a great influence on British literature in the late 19th century through his witty social criticism and humor.
Quote
“I would have a workshop attached to every school, and one hour a day given up to the teaching of simple decorative arts. It would be a golden hour to the children.”
Explanation
In this quote, Oscar Wilde advocates for a more creative and artistic approach to education. He envisions a world where children are given the opportunity to explore decorative arts, such as drawing, painting, or crafting, as part of their daily learning. Wilde refers to this as a “golden hour,” suggesting that the time spent engaging in artistic creation would not only enhance their imagination and skills, but also offer a welcome escape from the rigid confines of traditional academic subjects. For Wilde, the artistic hour would be more than just an extracurricular activity—it would be a vital and transformative part of education, contributing to the personal growth of every child.
Wilde’s perspective can be understood in the context of his broader views on art and creativity. He was a strong proponent of the idea that beauty and artistic expression are essential to the human experience. By emphasizing the importance of the decorative arts, Wilde believed that children would not only develop a better appreciation for aesthetics, but also a sense of self-expression and freedom. His view contrasts with the traditional focus on practicality in education, advocating instead for a more balanced and holistic approach to learning.
In today’s world, Wilde’s ideas resonate with the growing recognition of the importance of arts education in fostering creativity and critical thinking. Many modern educational systems are beginning to incorporate more creative subjects into their curricula, acknowledging that the arts can help students develop problem-solving skills, improve their emotional intelligence, and offer a deeper understanding of the world. Wilde’s words serve as a reminder of the transformative power of art, especially when it is given the same importance as other academic subjects.
