This quote suggests that all forms of art and education are simply extensions, enhancements, or interpretations of what nature already provides. It implies that the raw material for all our knowledge and creativity is fundamentally derived from the natural world around us. In other words, nature is the original teacher and the ultimate source of inspiration, and everything else we learn or create is just a supplement to it.
This perspective can be seen in the way artists often draw inspiration from nature, whether it’s the colors of a sunset, the patterns on a leaf, or the grandeur of a mountain range. Similarly, in education, many scientific principles and theories are derived from observing and understanding natural phenomena.
In today’s world, this idea could be applied in various ways. In the field of technology, for instance, the concept of biomimicry uses nature as a model, measure, and mentor to solve complex human problems. From designing energy-efficient buildings based on termite mounds to creating high-speed trains modeled on the beak of a kingfisher, nature’s wisdom is being used to enhance our technological prowess.
On a personal development level, this quote could encourage us to spend more time in nature, observing, learning, and drawing inspiration from it. It could also mean that we should respect and preserve nature as it is the foundation of all our knowledge and creativity. Additionally, it could suggest that the most profound truths and insights about life can be discovered not just in books or classrooms, but in the quiet contemplation of the natural world.