Meaning: The quote by Emily Carr reflects her perspective on the nature of artistic development and creative expression. Carr, a Canadian artist known for her paintings of indigenous cultures and landscapes, offers a profound insight into the process of artistic growth and the ineffable nature of creativity.

In this quote, Carr compares artistic development to the growth of a plant, emphasizing the organic and internal nature of the creative process. She suggests that one's art is a "growth inside one," implying that artistic expression originates from within the individual. Carr's use of the word "growth" conveys the idea that art is not static but rather a dynamic, evolving phenomenon that unfolds over time.

Carr's assertion that one cannot explain growth aligns with the notion that artistic development is often ineffable and elusive. She characterizes growth as "silent and subtle," highlighting the understated and nuanced nature of artistic maturation. This perspective challenges the notion that artistic progress can be easily quantified or articulated. Instead, Carr suggests that artistic growth manifests in ways that are not always overt or easily observable.

The analogy Carr draws between artistic growth and the growth of a plant is particularly evocative. By likening the creative process to the natural development of a living organism, she underscores the idea that art, like a plant, requires nurturing, patience, and a conducive environment in order to flourish. Furthermore, Carr's reference to "digging up a plant to see how it grows" underscores the futility of attempting to dissect or analyze the creative process in a manner that is overly intrusive or disruptive. This metaphorical imagery reinforces the idea that artistic development is best nurtured and allowed to unfold organically, much like the growth of a plant.

Carr's quote also implies a sense of respect for the mysterious and intangible aspects of artistic creation. By acknowledging the silent and subtle nature of growth, she emphasizes the need to embrace the enigmatic qualities of artistic development, rather than attempting to reduce it to a formulaic or mechanistic process. This perspective invites a deeper appreciation for the inherent complexity and richness of the artistic journey.

Overall, Emily Carr's quote offers a profound reflection on the nature of artistic growth and the enigmatic qualities of creativity. Her analogy of artistic development to the growth of a plant serves as a poignant reminder of the organic, internal, and elusive nature of the creative process. By embracing the silent and subtle aspects of growth, Carr invites artists and audiences alike to approach artistic expression with a sense of reverence and openness to the ineffable forces that drive creative evolution.

In conclusion, Carr's quote encourages us to recognize and honor the deeply personal and mysterious aspects of artistic growth, reminding us that the beauty of art lies not only in its final form but also in the enigmatic journey of its creation.