How did children’s drawings influence Paul Klee’s art?

Paul Klee was deeply influenced by the aesthetic of children’s drawings, which he believed helped return art to its fundamental roots through direct and naive renderings.1

During the 1912–1913 period, Klee began incorporating these simple patterns into his work, often pairing them with the geometric principles of Cubism. He found that the simplicity of children's art complemented the timeless geometry of Cubist compositions, allowing him to explore a unique style that balanced the farcical with the sublime.1

This interest in childlike expression persisted throughout his career. Even during the years of World War I, Klee produced numerous romantic, childlike landscapes that gained popularity with the public. By embracing these expressive possibilities, Klee achieved a freedom of style and a level of artistic independence that distinguished him from most of his contemporaries.21