I think you're on the right track with the idea of exposure to how 'real' adult artists work.
Sure, there is technical competence at work, but you're also right that losing that way of "seeing" also loses a vital artist's skill.
Art class. Preferably one that aims at people who don't think that they ARE artistic, because those are the ones that focus on individual 'seeing' and very definitely does NOT focus on typical subject material that appeals to kids.
Check with a community art center, local community college, library, or parks department. Good luck!
