Children's
art can have an honesty, and simplicity, that is often lacking in
mature, well-crafted works. But we shouldn't look to it for the
insights that only a lifetime of dedication and living can give. The
child works without the old grand master experience; and without
conscience and empathy, qualities known to develop during
adolescence and adulthood.
I frame my nephew Timmy's, and niece Jennifer's pictures. They are
some of my most favourite! But I try not to let them overhear me,
too often, telling visitors how wonderful they are!
A child's feelings can often be turned into self-conscious
precociousness, when adults start making more of their
accomplishments than is healthy. Part of what is so wonderful about
children and their art is how natural and unaffected it is. We
should be careful not to spoil that.
