Every Child Is an Artist: Embracing Creativity in Life and Teaching | Lily Swain
Art has always been a way of life for me. Some of my earliest memories are of drawing and proudly seeing my creations displayed on the kitchen wall. As a child, I was constantly making art—free from criticism or self-doubt. I created for the pure joy of it, unselfconsciously embracing the process.
Mark-making feels so primal, so instinctive. We are all born with an innate ability to create. Pablo Picasso famously said, “Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up.” Over the years, I’ve wrestled with this truth in my own artistic practice, and I know many other artists can relate to this struggle.
After earning a BFA in Fine Art, I chose to pursue a teaching degree specializing in Fine Art. I have always been fascinated by child development, and teaching became a practical way to combine this interest with my passion for art. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with children on artistic projects in diverse settings, including public schools, community programs, and specialized lessons.
In the past decade, I’ve had the unique joy of witnessing my own children’s creative journeys. My kids have become my greatest teachers, and I often joke that they’re far better artists than I am. I am always amazed by their innate sense of design, composition, and artistic expression.
Children are born as creative beings. As adults, I believe it’s our responsibility to value and nurture this creativity. At a time when our world faces countless challenges and increasing divisiveness, art stands as a universal language—one that has the power to bring people together and foster community. Lily Swain
