"I am not a specialist but a general practitioner in the world of the arts"

Theodore Bikel's quote talks to the idea of being a "family doctor" in the world of the arts. He is recommending that he is not a professional in any one specific area of the arts, however rather a person who has a broad knowledge and understanding of the arts in general. This might imply that he is a person who is fluent in many different art types, such as music, painting, sculpture, theatre, and dance. It might likewise mean that he is a person who has the ability to appreciate and understand the various elements of the arts, such as the history, the techniques, and the cultural significance. By being a "family doctor" worldwide of the arts, Bikel is recommending that he has the ability to bring an unique point of view to the arts, one that is informed by his broad understanding and understanding.