Meaning: The quote "He who wonders discovers that this in itself is wonder" by M.C. Escher encapsulates the essence of curiosity and the beauty of the unknown. Maurits Cornelis Escher, commonly known as M.C. Escher, was a Dutch graphic artist known for his mathematically-inspired works that often featured intricate and impossible visual perspectives. Throughout his career, Escher delved into the exploration of the nature of reality, perception, and the interplay between art and mathematics, creating thought-provoking and visually captivating pieces that continue to inspire awe and wonder.

In the context of the quote, "He who wonders" refers to the individual who engages in the act of wondering, questioning, and seeking to understand the world around them. Wonder, in this sense, encompasses a sense of awe, curiosity, and a desire to uncover the mysteries of existence. It is the fundamental human inclination to explore, question, and contemplate the marvels of the universe, both seen and unseen. Through this lens, Escher suggests that the act of wondering itself is a profound experience, as it leads to the discovery of wonder. This notion highlights the transformative power of curiosity, as it allows individuals to perceive the extraordinary in the ordinary and find beauty in the unknown.

Escher's own artistic explorations mirror the sentiment expressed in the quote, as his works often challenged conventional perceptions and invited viewers to question their understanding of reality. His famous lithograph "Relativity" is a prime example of this, depicting a world where the laws of gravity and spatial orientation are distorted, leading to a visually perplexing and mesmerizing scene. Through his art, Escher sought to evoke a sense of wonder and fascination, prompting viewers to marvel at the complexity of the world and the boundless potential of human imagination.

Furthermore, the quote invites contemplation on the nature of wonder itself. It suggests that wonder is not merely a reaction to extraordinary phenomena, but a state of mind that can be cultivated through the act of questioning and exploring. By engaging in wonder, individuals open themselves up to new possibilities and perspectives, allowing them to see the world through a lens of amazement and appreciation. This aligns with the idea that wonder is not limited to rare or exceptional occurrences, but can be found in the everyday if one approaches the world with a curious and open mindset.

In a broader sense, Escher's quote speaks to the profound impact of wonder on human creativity, discovery, and intellectual growth. Throughout history, many groundbreaking advancements and innovations have been born out of the simple act of wondering. From scientific breakthroughs to artistic masterpieces, the impulse to explore the unknown and seek answers to life's mysteries has been a driving force behind human progress. By acknowledging the intrinsic wonder of wondering itself, Escher's quote celebrates the endless potential for inspiration and insight that comes from embracing a sense of curiosity and awe.

In conclusion, M.C. Escher's quote "He who wonders discovers that this in itself is wonder" encapsulates the profound significance of curiosity, contemplation, and the appreciation of the unknown. It encourages individuals to embrace wonder as a transformative and enriching experience, one that transcends the boundaries of the extraordinary and permeates the fabric of everyday existence. Through his art and philosophical reflections, Escher invites us to recognize the inherent wonder in the act of wondering, fostering a deeper connection to the mysteries of the world and the boundless potential of human imagination.