Ed Emberley Quotes

Powerful Ed Emberley for Daily Growth

About Ed Emberley

Ed Emberley (1939-2020) was an acclaimed American illustrator, artist, and author known for his innovative children's books that encouraged creativity and hands-on learning. Born on February 6, 1939, in Providence, Rhode Island, he showed a keen interest in art from a young age, and by the time he graduated from Brown University with a degree in Fine Arts, he had already made a name for himself as an illustrator. Emberley's career took off in the 1960s when he started working as a freelance illustrator in New York City. His unique style of combining simple shapes and patterns caught the attention of publishers, leading to his first book, "Scribble Scribble," in 1969. This interactive book introduced children to the world of drawing by using basic shapes to create recognizable objects. Over the years, Emberley authored more than 80 books, many of which followed the success of "Scribble Scribble." His works included titles like "Doodle Doodle Day," "Make a World," and "Making Faces." These books encouraged children to draw by providing simple instructions and allowing them to create their own designs. Influenced by the minimalist art movement and his love for teaching, Emberley's works were not just about art but also about empowering children to express themselves creatively. He received numerous awards for his contributions to children's literature, including two Caldecott Honors for "Scribble Scribble" (1970) and "Draw Your Own Dinosaurs" (1973). Ed Emberley passed away on February 8, 2020, leaving behind a legacy of inspiring creativity in generations of children. His books continue to be popular today, encouraging kids to pick up a pencil and let their imaginations run wild.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Every artist was first an amateur."

This quote by Ed Emberley emphasizes that every professional artist, regardless of their skill level today, once started as a beginner or "amateur". It suggests that the journey to mastery in any art form begins with taking that initial step into learning, experimenting, and practicing. The transition from amateur to professional happens over time through dedicated effort and continuous growth. Essentially, it's a reminder that everyone starts somewhere, and there's no shame in starting as an "amateur" because it's the foundation for becoming an accomplished artist.


"Art is a way of looking at the world."

Ed Emberley's quote, "Art is a way of looking at the world," suggests that art is not just a product or an end result, but it's also a tool for perception and understanding. Through the creative process of art, we learn to see the world in unique and meaningful ways - focusing on details, patterns, colors, textures, shapes, and emotions that might otherwise go unnoticed. It's about appreciating the beauty within our surroundings and expressing our individual perspectives on life.


"Creativity is a natural gift which is nurtured by practice."

Ed Emberley's quote emphasizes that creativity, like any other skill, requires both inherent talent (a natural gift) and consistent practice to develop and thrive. In essence, he suggests that while everyone has an innate potential for creative expression, it needs to be cultivated through persistent effort and dedication. This perspective encourages individuals to not only embrace their unique creative abilities but also to actively work on honing those skills for personal growth and achievement.


"The more you do, the more you can do."

This quote by Ed Emberley emphasizes the concept of continuous learning and improvement through practice. The more activities or tasks one engages in, the more skills, knowledge, and confidence they acquire, enabling them to take on even greater challenges. It encourages perseverance and growth, implying that with each step taken, a person's potential expands, making them capable of achieving even more.


"Making art is like exploring a new place, it's full of surprises."

This quote suggests that creating art is akin to discovering an unfamiliar territory. Just as one encounters unexpected sights, sounds, and sensations when exploring a new place, art-making involves unanticipated revelations and discoveries about oneself, the world, and the creative process itself. The surprises encountered during this exploration can enrich and deepen the artist's understanding and appreciation of their craft.


I am an old geezer: a grandpa kind of a guy. I was born October 19, 1931. I have gray hair, a beard, and a little pot belly. I have two children who are over 30 years old and a sweet little granddaughter who is 11 years old.

- Ed Emberley

Guy, Belly, Grandpa, Pot

My favorite book is 'Go Away Big Green Monster.' I wrote it for my granddaughter Adrian, who was in the third grade at the time.

- Ed Emberley

Green, Big, Away, Adrian

Everyone who likes my books is like me in some way.

- Ed Emberley

Some, Everyone, Books, Likes

I don't know where I got the idea for 'The Great Thumbprint Drawing Book'; I just told my brain to think of a book, and it did.

- Ed Emberley

Book, Think, Idea, Drawing

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