There is no Mandatory retirement age for creativity. I am (happily) living my 88th year of life, I have been a professional artist since I was 83 yo, with gallery representation. Don't quit before you even start! Go for it!
You are so right! I am 72 and started to paint only two years ago. Had a long happy career and never had any desire to paint, no inklings at all. It just came and almost instantly became my passion. So far completed over 50 pieces, some of them quite large. Somehow I knew almost from the start what I want to paint, and what I am completely not interested, many people love my work, I got juried in every show I tried so far, sold a couple of works, got proposition of solo show. Life is great.
I resigned from my job nearly a month ago to pursue my art full time. I'm in my early 50's and I feel blessed to be on this path at this stage in my life. I am more confident, calculating in my decisions and calm and I believe those characteristics will serve me well. Like you indicated in the video there is a wisdom that comes when you pursue your dream later in life. I truly enjoy your videos - I have watched and have learned so much. Thank you for your dedication to teaching people like myself how to take steps to succeed.
I didn't really start painting art seriously until I was about 53/54ish. I worked on it for about 8 years before I settled on a style I liked and a couple years later I started contacting galleries, joining a gallery, and entering open calls,. I sold my first painting in a gallery/auction house at 64. When did I first like art? The only book report I remember writing back in grade school was about Leonardo da Vinci's paintings because I liked art. But I ended up working in construction/building trades. I worked for many years mainly as a painter so I painted all kinds of buildings over the years. But working as a painter I also did mud work, concrete work, roofing, and so on, almost everything from the ground up. I use some of the tools I worked with for my artwork such as trowels, mud knives, and other tools. I started in my 50s because I became disabled in 2009 and after sitting in the house for a couple of years, I was sitting in my chair and I said "I know I'll start painting art!!!" my wife was like what are you talking about? Because I just said it out of the blue and that's when I started really trying to paint art. I took online classes and of course, I watched a million videos on here. You can get an education just from RUclips videos if you search enough. Do I know art history like who painted what and when? I have no clue I like Rothko, Pollock, Johns, Golub, and abstract artists.
I have been doing art and thinking of myself as an artist since I was 4 years old. Now I am 70 and one year retired from work. Last month I decided to apply for admission into art school. I live in Philadelphia and there are several nationally renowned art schools here to choose from. Because I am not so concerned with the academics I chose a university that is focused on the arts and a nationally recognized atelier. I put together the required portfolio and submitted my application for the fall 2023 semester. Today I awoke to several missed calls and an email from my first choice telling me that I have been accepted pending an in-person interview. Its never too late to pursue your dreams.
I co-founded a group of women artists, Comadres Artistas, in the early 1990s. I was an art graduate, however, most of the members had only dabbled in art. We were ages 43 to 63 years old. We all became very well known in the Sacramento area and exhibited as a group into the 21st century. Also, our group is discussed in a few books about Hispanic artists. So, yes, there is time for art later in your life. I'm nearly 72 and am still creating and showing my art. Again, this year I completed the Strada Easel 31-Day Challenge and am very active in social media as an artist. As famous Mexican Artist Frida Kahlo showed, even if you're bedridden you can still draw and paint.
Ms. V.P.G. You touched on a subject very close to my soul. I have raised a family, paid the mortgage, still take care of an elderly parent, near minimum retirement age. Six months ago, I considered calling a moving company to haul off my studio equipment. But, my heart said, "No, why would you do that?" Parker J. Palmer reminds us that our paths are not direct, but circuitous. Why do I hang onto my future full-time art path: My soul needs Art like my body needs air and water.
Been an artist by whole life...creative writing, storytelling, and drawing...but only at 38, did I begin painting. Was a struggling real estate agent and just couldn't seem to get anywhere with it and ended up having to go back to work at a job again. Needed something to be excited about and look forward to and decided it was painting. Didn't know much about it but was willing to learn and make it my religion and devote it to God. It releases 40 years of tension, pain, and trauma. My mission, now that I'm 40, is to make it a full-time business.
Thank you for the positive but realistic perspective. I’m 34 and already feeling like time is running out for me, which sounds so silly but the social pressure is real. I wish I hadn’t let the world beat the creativity out of me because I could be really skilled by now, instead I tried to learn many other things that didn’t suit me, never feeling like I was being true to myself. I just can’t do it anymore, life is too precious to waste living someone else’s dreams for you.
I am 59 starting my art passion.I don’t have a supportive family but I have belief in my painting. It is a hard journey but I love making work. I create to express my life experiences.
@@injudicate mine is a series of long form novels in the spirit of literature. No novel exists for itself alone. If you had the slightest bit of decorum and compassion you would not say turn the page to a disabled person struggling to get down the stairs due to Immobility. I take offence at your comment and declare - they 7 flights of stairs without disability support or family at 62. Come back then sweetheart. Ablest rhetoric !!!
Passion has no age . Yes you may have to work harder being behind the eight ball. Take time to build your skills and networking. At the end of the day , the art speaks for itself.
i started aged 54 and thought i would just paint. Have had 2 gallery experiences , and ran a painting stall in London for a year, that was very interesting. I aim to paint about 1000 paintings just because. I have sold 11 . I am now 58 and still loving the learning experience.
Thank you very much for this video. I am turning 50 next year and started my art career during the pandemic and after moving from South Africa to Italy, I am living my dream. I really LOVING your videos and find them very insightful, helpful, and inspirational as well. You are the first content creator I've come across with the SOLE MISSION of helping artists, instead of creating content to sell a subscription, course, or other money-making scheme. I also LOVE your sense of humor and witty comments. I also relate to you being a 'foreigner' on European soil and admire all you have achieved. Keep up the great work!
WHY do people assume youngsters have deeper, more soulful, meaningful, mature expression of art than older generations? WHY the heck do I owe anyone explanation why I just started to do art???
Well, you don’t need anyone’s approval. But, you might want to sell to collectors, who might happen to be younger than you? If you can’t convence them, you are limiting yourself to collectors who are older. And if you are, for example, 65 years old, that’s a very limited audience.
PS, I like to hang out always with older people, at my grandpa’s age (b.1910s). They are a lot wiser than youngsters. But I often felt frustrated of not being taken seriously (I was a teen). I wanted to become their friends, but they treated me like a baby. I think the age gap was created by them, who thought they didn’t need to explain themselves. They were too smart for me, the 13 year old roller skating kid next door. Of course they were, that’s a fact. If they could talk to me like an adult, I would learn more, benefit more. I wished I could have the chance to really know them before they passed away.
Its not necessarily about the expression of art being more soulful or meaningful. There is a certain set of collectors who collect art as an investment and the assumption is that a younger artist will have more time to build up name recognition in the art market. The assumption is that someone who is starting out as an emerging artist at 60 for example vs someone who is an emerging artist at 20 is that the 20 year old has more years in front of them to make more art works and thus have a larger body of work over their lifetime. The assumption is that someone in their 60's should already be an emerged artist with a recognized name and not still emerging. The fear from collectors is that there won't be enough time for them to go from emerging to emerged recognized artist and therefore there will not be as much appreciation or increase in value for their art from that status shift. Bear in mind I am talking about those collectors that are buying art as an investment. Also for people that want to collect art that has shock factor the assumption will be that younger artists can create art that has more shock factor, you kow the whole "rebellion of youth" thing. It's unfortunate that these are the preconceived notions about art. From an art market perspective it is a bit of an uphill battle if you start out when you are older. This doesn't mean you cannot find your audience and people that really resonate with your works. If you enjoy making art and showing it then I think it's a great thing and should be encouraged regardless of the age that someone starts that journey from.
It's true, the art world seems to support the very young, way before they gather some real-life experience. Older generations do have more insight into many topics and first-hand experience in life. Therefore art made at a later age I find personally more genuine and powerful.
Congratulations (v. belated) on your PHD ! As a retired architect due to an injury, I've trained my non dominant hand to draw animals and at 62 slowly daring instagram to hold myself accountable and be consistent. Delighted to have come across your channel...subscribed !
Going into the 64's part of my carrier as a statistician for Industry owns a lot to hours and hours spent in RUclips. This is probably one of the best videos I've seen so far ever. It provided me that needed "push" to turn all my paintings into my next phase in life. Thank you.
@@VeryPrivateGallery yeah, it's just you know some people online started when they were 13 or something. Yup, fingers crossed everything goes as planned.
We are almost the same age. I was born in March 1985. I started guitar building school with just 36. I wanted to do guitar art and that is what I do now.
I was also born in 1985, in the autumn. Coming close to 40, I am finishing my PhD and going to start a new chapter in life. It’s never too late to start!
Excellent advice, "don't rush it"... I've had to learn this the hard way a few times, but I finally get it. I just became a full-time artist at 61 and THRILLED with the opportunities to be able to create full-time.
I am... will be 58 in a few weeks and have been a sculptor for most of my life. The irony is that I wasn't able to get solo exhibitions etc as they considered me to be too young mostly and now I am transitioning into doing all kinds of art full time and online for the most part I now face the hurdle of ..well..you're this old where is your following ..career record, etc. I am nearly done with my Squarespace site which is more like a portfolio and have my plan of action ready. I work mornings as a cook and then afternoons work on setting up. I have found your videos really informative and am very happy you made this clip as there aren't many if any out there talking about the subject. Thanks so much for your info and the content is super appreciated!!!
Hi Jon, thanks for sharing your story! I know that feel… when I was in my early 20s, I wasn’t taken seriously because I was too young. Now that I am approaching my 40s, people think I am too old (particularly for collage). But I am sure there are ways to leverage your characteristics and personal traits. In the profile I see you are playing disc golf? Maybe you can perhaps bring some life experience-passion into your art!
"Of course your government will thank you for being such a good citizen." That made me LOL! Truly illustrates the difference between China and the U.S.
@VeryPrivateGallery Thank you for this amazing video, I do really need it since I made the lip recently from office work to start my creative business and persue my art career, my childhood dream now that I'm more than 40!! One thing that really surprized me here is your experiece in some European restaurants! I found it was very rude from those people to think you are a waitress! This proves that they lack the ability to see and observe and they just behave according to their own "false" stereotypes like a troop lacking any kind of "consciousness" and "awareness"!! Such people must make more effort to grow and improve their mentality! This has really surprised me and I wanted to leave a note here just in case someone from the same "stereotype background" came to read it. I'm not an Asian nor a European. Besides, "humblness" is not the quality of many people... Thank you so much for this video, really informative. You are great! Keep shining 😊🫶🌍.
I'm so very very happy to hear your explanation about this topic, I'm in my 50s dreaming and working my passion as an artist and I'm happy with my career doing my crafts even sometimes I was limited from my resources but that's not a problem for me cause I do understand that was normal to happen occasionally. What's really important is just to continue working with any art piece we can make using any available materials around and from there I assure that we where be surprised for the results and realizing that there's no limit in art, it's just us if we limit our self to work.
I'm a 50+ adult finally pursuing my creative side, after many starts and stops. Thank you for your words of wisdom and empathy. Regret scars more than fear.
Hi Elaine, your experience in the past could be your most valuable assets! And age, of course, could be an advantage. Take one or two social media, build an artist website, find a routine and keep on working!
Great channel, been working through all your videos. Totally agree with your comments. Covers exactly what I am going through now. 50 years old and after thinking about concentrating on my art for 30 years, I finally gave up a good career to pursue a life as an Artist. Not easy but for me, definitely the right decision. In many ways I feel it is be better by waiting so long. Age does give you a lot of life experience, good and bad so use that to your advantage. Good luck to anyone doing the same.
Thank you, great video, thanks for caring, I'm 57 and my mother was active till 80, so I'm giving myself the same timeline to stay motivated and any extra will be a bonus. Nobody lives forever, which I realised when she passed.
You are SO funny. When you pulled out your exerciser, I laughed out loud! I just found you while researching camera picks for artists last week, subscribed immediately as I love your down to earth approach. As a 54 yr old who had her first official art show this month…I am wondering if you are listening to my computer (like Amazon does!) as this is so pertinent to me! 😆and then when you said “cut out sugar, dairy, gluten”…who are you-Jiminy Cricket? Will be following you and your new residency venture…God bless you and all your endeavors. 💕💕
Hey Brenna, thanks for subscribing! I need to get back to exercising (proceed to pull out my exerciser)! 😅 I have an Amazon Echo, I don't know what it does to me. I hope AI gets smarter and solve all our problems. 😥 Did you watch the movie Cowspiracy (2014)? People watch this movie would talk like me. Ask Jimmy Cricket if he had seen that movie!
I loved this video! I've always believed in the fact that you're never too young or too old to do something that makes you happy, especially in art. Thank you and best wishes on your ongoing work and career!
You are beautiful... Your Aura and your Soul... Thank you so much for all things of your advice, it can be of much help to me. I wish you more good things in life.
Hi, I have seen many videos by you. I am impressed with your research,information and practical advice. That is realistic. Every word you say is honest,genuine,well-meaning, to help everyone succeeded. What you say in this video about art at older age is true. Success does not come easily but one must follow one's passion,take care of how money is spent wisely, health,using past experience and facing competition and being not just honest but wise too in facing questions people may ask. Thank you very much. By the way, you narrated how ppl asked you to bring this or that thinking you are a waiter. You faced it though you were a trained artist from a well-known college. That is truly brave of you. Please continue making such videos. I like them a lot. Thank you really.
Hi Ravindra, thanks for your message! I am trained as a filmmaker from dramatic art school, worked as a photographer for several years before devoting to this art-business project. Many artists say: “Oh so you are not a real artist, coz you are a corporate photographer!” The world of art need to be more open minded for sure!
it is only the rich people and those who has back ups who can be a fulltime artist at a young age. So it's not too late.Once you'll have the time, you'll be able to do it.
A very inspiring video of you again! Congratulations with your PhD research position! I am so happy for you! May be in the (near) future you could tell us something about the topic of your research.
I had my "mid life crisis" (the first one) early (in my 30's). I went to art school (The National Art School - Sydney Australia) with the express intention of being a high school art teacher (taught into my early 50's). What I noticed was that everybody at Art school had an interesting life story, as to why they were there. I went because I had always intended pursuing this type of study late in life.....but then Mum died in her 50's and I thought BETTER DO IT NOW! Some students were getting through divorce, others recovering from mental illness, or physical illness, or leaving careers that had burnt them out and left them traumatised etc etc (would male a great book! Or photo essay, for a Phd film student). Never mind learning Art, these schools are hospitals for the soul. Presently in my 50's I still love art but I'm lazy, crazy and easily distracted (At the moment I'm studying full-time engineering). As for impressing gallery owners.....they are zoo-keeping pimps! They keep us in their "stable" for a reason....because we are like race horses for them. The moment we can't run (sell) they will shoot us! (Ok I'm being a bit extreme, but gallery owners who care are rare). We as artists need to abandon the gallery system and sell and promote ourselves (let them come to you!). In the end if you crave validation from gallerists and curators it will just paralyse you creatively. Remember too that living a creative life can take make many shapes. Ultimately your grandest work of art is the Engineering of YOUR life, and surmounting challenges life poses. Trust me, even "successful" artists quite often at the peak of their success are deeply unhappy as they realise the folly of the "art scene" which is fake and facile, unlike art itself which is a grand reflection of the creator God (amen). So make art, be happy and as long as you have time, food, materials and shelter, that should be enough!!!! Love the channel, have fun doing the Phd!
Thanks for sharing your life story! I also went to study in Sydney (Faculty of Art History, Sydney Uni) and for a change, I went into completely different things for several years. Now I am back to the Faculty of Art, trying to blend in as if I haven't left. Many people think it is too late to start a PhD (or a Masters etc) in the second half of life, but I really think it depends. It depends on how many years you still have to live. If we can life into our 80s, the 50 is the new 30! About happiness, it's unfortunate today happiness is very streamlined - being successful at one's career, having wonderful children or cute dogs, achieving at sports etc... They are considered the classical superlative receipt for happiness. In the art world, is probably the equivalent of 'making it to Venice' or end up in a renowned contemporary art museum. It was almost politically wrong to say I'm happy doing the opposite. Like doctors are not correct to say: 'I am happy euthanizing my patience'. The formula for happiness are very mono-thematic, which leads to unhappiness, dissatisfaction, and other life struggles among some of us. The control of value has always been there since the beginning of our societies. But in the past I feel that artists were not so much involved in this rat-race (at least not poets in the ancient China). I believe in bringing diversity of values, the questions is... how?
@@VeryPrivateGallery How to bring diversity of value? By doing what you are doing! I’m in year 1 of a full time 5 year degree. People are saying “too late…. Why waste money on it? Etc etc”. They did the same thing when I studied Art full time AND also said “so selfish…. You have a kid…. What about your families economic security?”. That was all a projection of their insecurities onto me. Now I’m in my 50’s and NOT stuck in a rut and the art qualification enriched my life socially and $$$$ (teaching pays ok if you work a night job as well) . So I thoroughly agree, instead of dreaming of stopping work…. Change it up and reinvigorate your life space, so you continue to be of service to yourself and just as importantly others. YoU are leading by example by sharing your journey (without sugar coating it) and this is of immense benefit! …. and yes I do tend to OVER share…. but I want people to know that choices are available and most often with effort the universe shall provide! 😃Looking forward to seeing the Phd journey as it unfolds.
Art has no age! When we look to a beautiful art work, we don't think about the age of the artist who made it! But we would love to know about the artist, their techniques and other artworks, their personality, their personal experience, how they become artists, their challenges and stories they went through in their journey, etc Age is instead important in moving from a stable job to any "new business" as business building requires to have financial savings to live on while setting the business (any business not only art) and wait for the required time for the business to become lucrative. Having a part time job or a full time one will help in reducing the financial risks and this can apply to anyone starting a new business and in any domain. Art is not about age. And if I get to know that a certain beatiful art is made by a late bloomer, that artist becomes more precious to me !! If certain gallaries may refuse fome artists because of their age or their starting age in the art industry, there may exist also other galleries who will do the opposite. Moreover, online galleries and online presence (website, social media, groups, forums,..) are also another alternative!
I'm 35 and I feel too old to be trying to pursue art sometimes. I think "I'm too old for this, I should have my life figured out by now". As Steven Pressfield would say, "this is Resistence".
What would be your suggestion for building your record? Building social medial? an online portfolio? applying to art contests? I’d love to see a follow up video regarding this. 🌻
Alice Ravenal Huger Smith... "... so as a matter of course, I started on the appointed road. A great deal of time is saved by a signpost clearly lettered."
Hi! Found your channel recently! Subscribed:) you put out really great informative videos. The only suggestion I have is for you not only to say “welcome back to my channel” but to say your name first. I think this would help connect your viewers better to you. Best of luck 👍
Hello teacher, I am studying for a diploma in illustration in Hong Kong. I have been doing fashion illustration work for more than ten years. Now I want to develop my own artistic career in freelance industry, but because of insufficient academic qualifications and too many types of works, if I want to consult, what advice would you have that would be more suitable for my development direction? Thank you.
Hi Yinfong, if you want to do freelancing work, you don't need a MA. You are already doing a BA in design/illustration in HK, that's sufficient. However, if you want to enter the world of art, especially contemporary art, you might face some difficulties. In China the world of art has a wider range like watercolor, oil painting, crafts, design etc, but in Western countries most of Chinese art forms won't make it to the museums and galleries. There is definitely a big cultural difference.
Hi, How are you. still you not telling your home town in Beijing. i love to shopping Art products in Meishi guan area. Are you from chaoyang district or Haidian District I just like to know. Regards Good luck
People ask me “why do you return to Europe for your studies?” Coz they think it would be harder to do it in a foreign language. I was like: “Because in China most PhD positions have an age limit of 35 y/o.” -What you said is true. Some societies have more biases than others.
People ask me “why do you return to Europe for your studies?” Coz they think it would be harder to do it in a foreign language. I was like: “Because in China most PhD positions have an age limit of 35 y/o and I have just passed my 35th birthday.” -What you said is true. Some societies have more biases than others, some have less. But there is always a “hack”!
You are so beautiful... You have good Aura and fine Soul... I wish you more good things in life... I'm a Visual Artist from the Philippines. Just call me ArAn.
Everyone can do art, particularly if you "get" the basics easily (some people have easier time with drawing or values than others -- despite studying). But not everyone can become a successful artist. Age DOES play a major role. Not only because you can't easily create a brand around yourself if aged (galleries care about brands, not paintings, essentially), but also in your 50s and your 60s you do have cognitive decline which prevents you from creating FRESH things. This is why artists in their late 20s and 30s do the best: they have had 10 years to built a brand, and their brain is still functioning in their 30s/40s to create shocking, new art. The already-established artists in their 50s usually run on steam and previous marketing. Even Picasso, didn't create anything worthwhile after he turned 60. His high-season was in his 30s and 40s with a few bright spots here and there in his 50s (but in his case he was a pioneer already, so it was easier for him to innovate). The rest of us, starting at that age, we have no chance in making a career out of it. Yes, they can pick a niche and find an audience locally or online, but that is not the same as being selling paintings for thousands of dollars to billionaires via galleries and auctions. So please don't encourage middle aged people to leave their jobs to become artists. They should do art on their free time only, and see where that takes them overtime. I started painting more seriously at age 47, and I'm now 49. My brain does not work the same as it did 10 years ago art-wise (I was a collage artist before, with a lot of success). Yes, I could even illustrate a book now, sell a few paintings on Etsy, but that's not the same as doing art that NYTimes would want to write an article about me. There's a difference between hobby or side-hustle job, and leaving your job completely to try and penetrate an already over-saturated low-brow market, or a high art market that is full of gatekeepers and who constantly only care about new blood. So, lay off the dreams a bit, and be more realistic.
Physical (and numerological) conditions do play a role. Many companies in China refuse to hire people over 35 years old for associate level jobs, and many didn’t want to hire women in their fertile years. Because they say: if you are older you have more sick leaves, if you are a mother, you will have maternity leaves. From what I see and read, there is more age discrimination in the labor market in China, than gender discrimination. Luckily for art, the age is not as restrictive (like in the labor market in China). You can start in your late 40s and 50s. What matters is how many years we still have to live, instead of how many we have lived. Imagine if a gallerist have to choose between a stage 4 cancer patient who is making great art in his 30s, or a healthy pensioner early retired in his 50s-60s, who would he choose? Starting a career older is not ideal. But we can still fight with some leverage. Maybe you have built a strong network of friends. Maybe your children can help out with some fresh ideas. Maybe you have saved more money to invest in your art brand. Those could all become the counter strikes against aging. Yet, it is not easy. I have just finished chatting with a writer who started a writing career in his mid-50s. He felt that every year his goal seems to run further and further away. He wanted to reach the goal before his time, so he has a lot of catching up to do. I truly wish anyone who wanted to pursue a honorable goal could reach it eventually!
There is no Mandatory retirement age for creativity. I am (happily) living my 88th year of life, I have been a professional artist since I was 83 yo, with gallery representation. Don't quit before you even start! Go for it!
You are so right! I am 72 and started to paint only two years ago. Had a long happy career and never had any desire to paint, no inklings at all. It just came and almost instantly became my passion. So far completed over 50 pieces, some of them quite large. Somehow I knew almost from the start what I want to paint, and what I am completely not interested, many people love my work, I got juried in every show I tried so far, sold a couple of works, got proposition of solo show. Life is great.
Hi Wanda, Thanks for sharing! Life is unpredictable and the future is unwritten. Let's see what we could do about it!
I resigned from my job nearly a month ago to pursue my art full time. I'm in my early 50's and I feel blessed to be on this path at this stage in my life. I am more confident, calculating in my decisions and calm and I believe those characteristics will serve me well. Like you indicated in the video there is a wisdom that comes when you pursue your dream later in life. I truly enjoy your videos - I have watched and have learned so much. Thank you for your dedication to teaching people like myself how to take steps to succeed.
are you selling anything?
@@BurningSteel69 Yes, I am doing well, steady commission work and expanding my product line to include prints and other merchandise
@@lisaa.butler8530 whats you website url?
I found you. Your work is absolutely stunning. I love your work!!!!
@@kerrim1792 thank you so much Kerri, that is wonderful to hear 😊
I didn't really start painting art seriously until I was about 53/54ish. I worked on it for about 8 years before I settled on a style I liked and a couple years later I started contacting galleries, joining a gallery, and entering open calls,. I sold my first painting in a gallery/auction house at 64. When did I first like art? The only book report I remember writing back in grade school was about Leonardo da Vinci's paintings because I liked art. But I ended up working in construction/building trades. I worked for many years mainly as a painter so I painted all kinds of buildings over the years. But working as a painter I also did mud work, concrete work, roofing, and so on, almost everything from the ground up. I use some of the tools I worked with for my artwork such as trowels, mud knives, and other tools. I started in my 50s because I became disabled in 2009 and after sitting in the house for a couple of years, I was sitting in my chair and I said "I know I'll start painting art!!!" my wife was like what are you talking about? Because I just said it out of the blue and that's when I started really trying to paint art. I took online classes and of course, I watched a million videos on here. You can get an education just from RUclips videos if you search enough. Do I know art history like who painted what and when? I have no clue I like Rothko, Pollock, Johns, Golub, and abstract artists.
I have been doing art and thinking of myself as an artist since I was 4 years old. Now I am 70 and one year retired from work. Last month I decided to apply for admission into art school. I live in Philadelphia and there are several nationally renowned art schools here to choose from. Because I am not so concerned with the academics I chose a university that is focused on the arts and a nationally recognized atelier. I put together the required portfolio and submitted my application for the fall 2023 semester. Today I awoke to several missed calls and an email from my first choice telling me that I have been accepted pending an in-person interview. Its never too late to pursue your dreams.
I co-founded a group of women artists, Comadres Artistas, in the early 1990s. I was an art graduate, however, most of the members had only dabbled in art. We were ages 43 to 63 years old. We all became very well known in the Sacramento area and exhibited as a group into the 21st century. Also, our group is discussed in a few books about Hispanic artists. So, yes, there is time for art later in your life. I'm nearly 72 and am still creating and showing my art. Again, this year I completed the Strada Easel 31-Day Challenge and am very active in social media as an artist. As famous Mexican Artist Frida Kahlo showed, even if you're bedridden you can still draw and paint.
Saludos y felicidades. Age is just a number. ¡Sigue pintando!
Ms. V.P.G. You touched on a subject very close to my soul. I have raised a family, paid the mortgage, still take care of an elderly parent, near minimum retirement age. Six months ago, I considered calling a moving company to haul off my studio equipment. But, my heart said, "No, why would you do that?" Parker J. Palmer reminds us that our paths are not direct, but circuitous. Why do I hang onto my future full-time art path: My soul needs Art like my body needs air and water.
Been an artist by whole life...creative writing, storytelling, and drawing...but only at 38, did I begin painting. Was a struggling real estate agent and just couldn't seem to get anywhere with it and ended up having to go back to work at a job again. Needed something to be excited about and look forward to and decided it was painting. Didn't know much about it but was willing to learn and make it my religion and devote it to God. It releases 40 years of tension, pain, and trauma. My mission, now that I'm 40, is to make it a full-time business.
What a brilliant video. Thank you ❤️
Thank you for the positive but realistic perspective. I’m 34 and already feeling like time is running out for me, which sounds so silly but the social pressure is real. I wish I hadn’t let the world beat the creativity out of me because I could be really skilled by now, instead I tried to learn many other things that didn’t suit me, never feeling like I was being true to myself. I just can’t do it anymore, life is too precious to waste living someone else’s dreams for you.
Great Channel!! A lot of great subjects, love to watch you; thanks a lot!
I am 59 starting my art passion.I don’t have a supportive family but I have belief in my painting. It is a hard journey but I love making work. I create to express my life experiences.
🙋🏻♀️ 59 is young! My parents are over 60 y/o and they now at their best stage of their lives 😊
Merely your next chapter...turn the page!
@@injudicate it is not a chapter - maybe for you but not for me. I disagree with flippancy about my life experiences - that is you not me
@@injudicate mine is a series of long form novels in the spirit of literature. No novel exists for itself alone. If you had the slightest bit of decorum and compassion you would not say turn the page to a disabled person struggling to get down the stairs due to
Immobility. I take offence at your comment and declare - they 7 flights of stairs without disability support or family at 62. Come back then sweetheart. Ablest rhetoric !!!
@@VeryPrivateGallery you need your legs and money darling to pay your bills !!! Ablest rhetoric
Passion has no age . Yes you may have to work harder being behind the eight ball. Take time to build your skills and networking. At the end of the day , the art speaks for itself.
i started aged 54 and thought i would just paint. Have had 2 gallery experiences , and ran a painting stall in London for a year, that was very interesting. I aim to paint about 1000 paintings just because. I have sold 11 . I am now 58 and still loving the learning experience.
Thank you very much for this video. I am turning 50 next year and started my art career during the pandemic and after moving from South Africa to Italy, I am living my dream. I really LOVING your videos and find them very insightful, helpful, and inspirational as well. You are the first content creator I've come across with the SOLE MISSION of helping artists, instead of creating content to sell a subscription, course, or other money-making scheme. I also LOVE your sense of humor and witty comments. I also relate to you being a 'foreigner' on European soil and admire all you have achieved. Keep up the great work!
WHY do people assume youngsters have deeper, more soulful, meaningful, mature expression of art than older generations? WHY the heck do I owe anyone explanation why I just started to do art???
Well, you don’t need anyone’s approval. But, you might want to sell to collectors, who might happen to be younger than you? If you can’t convence them, you are limiting yourself to collectors who are older. And if you are, for example, 65 years old, that’s a very limited audience.
PS, I like to hang out always with older people, at my grandpa’s age (b.1910s). They are a lot wiser than youngsters. But I often felt frustrated of not being taken seriously (I was a teen). I wanted to become their friends, but they treated me like a baby. I think the age gap was created by them, who thought they didn’t need to explain themselves. They were too smart for me, the 13 year old roller skating kid next door. Of course they were, that’s a fact. If they could talk to me like an adult, I would learn more, benefit more. I wished I could have the chance to really know them before they passed away.
Its not necessarily about the expression of art being more soulful or meaningful. There is a certain set of collectors who collect art as an investment and the assumption is that a younger artist will have more time to build up name recognition in the art market. The assumption is that someone who is starting out as an emerging artist at 60 for example vs someone who is an emerging artist at 20 is that the 20 year old has more years in front of them to make more art works and thus have a larger body of work over their lifetime. The assumption is that someone in their 60's should already be an emerged artist with a recognized name and not still emerging. The fear from collectors is that there won't be enough time for them to go from emerging to emerged recognized artist and therefore there will not be as much appreciation or increase in value for their art from that status shift. Bear in mind I am talking about those collectors that are buying art as an investment.
Also for people that want to collect art that has shock factor the assumption will be that younger artists can create art that has more shock factor, you kow the whole "rebellion of youth" thing.
It's unfortunate that these are the preconceived notions about art. From an art market perspective it is a bit of an uphill battle if you start out when you are older. This doesn't mean you cannot find your audience and people that really resonate with your works. If you enjoy making art and showing it then I think it's a great thing and should be encouraged regardless of the age that someone starts that journey from.
It's true, the art world seems to support the very young, way before they gather some real-life experience. Older generations do have more insight into many topics and first-hand experience in life. Therefore art made at a later age I find personally more genuine and powerful.
Congratulations (v. belated) on your PHD ! As a retired architect due to an injury, I've trained my non dominant hand to draw animals and at 62 slowly daring instagram to hold myself accountable and be consistent.
Delighted to have come across your channel...subscribed !
Going into the 64's part of my carrier as a statistician for Industry owns a lot to hours and hours spent in RUclips. This is probably one of the best videos I've seen so far ever. It provided me that needed "push" to turn all my paintings into my next phase in life. Thank you.
Very positive attitude friend 👍👍👍. This will help to start very strong instinct in people who thinks everything is over
I am in my 20's and I feel I am late...this is encouraging. Thank you.
You are a baby! In a good way… you have a whole life in front of you.
@@VeryPrivateGallery yeah, it's just you know some people online started when they were 13 or something. Yup, fingers crossed everything goes as planned.
We are almost the same age. I was born in March 1985. I started guitar building school with just 36. I wanted to do guitar art and that is what I do now.
I was also born in 1985, in the autumn. Coming close to 40, I am finishing my PhD and going to start a new chapter in life. It’s never too late to start!
Excellent advice, "don't rush it"... I've had to learn this the hard way a few times, but I finally get it. I just became a full-time artist at 61 and THRILLED with the opportunities to be able to create full-time.
Hi Mary, thanks for your message! I am so happy for you. Keep me posted with your adventures and progress!
Great vid I watched it all the way through and liked it.
The ending was uplifting thanks for the positive encouragement!!🤗
I’m starting my art journey in my 40s. Next month I’ll enroll in an online art course with a local mentor. Not ashamed. I’m living with intention!
I am... will be 58 in a few weeks and have been a sculptor for most of my life. The irony is that I wasn't able to get solo exhibitions etc as they considered me to be too young mostly and now I am transitioning into doing all kinds of art full time and online for the most part I now face the hurdle of ..well..you're this old where is your following ..career record, etc. I am nearly done with my Squarespace site which is more like a portfolio and have my plan of action ready. I work mornings as a cook and then afternoons work on setting up. I have found your videos really informative and am very happy you made this clip as there aren't many if any out there talking about the subject. Thanks so much for your info and the content is super appreciated!!!
Hi Jon, thanks for sharing your story! I know that feel… when I was in my early 20s, I wasn’t taken seriously because I was too young. Now that I am approaching my 40s, people think I am too old (particularly for collage). But I am sure there are ways to leverage your characteristics and personal traits. In the profile I see you are playing disc golf? Maybe you can perhaps bring some life experience-passion into your art!
Thanks for this great video. The story of grandma Moses she start painting at age 78.
"Of course your government will thank you for being such a good citizen." That made me LOL! Truly illustrates the difference between China and the U.S.
@VeryPrivateGallery Thank you for this amazing video, I do really need it since I made the lip recently from office work to start my creative business and persue my art career, my childhood dream now that I'm more than 40!!
One thing that really surprized me here is your experiece in some European restaurants! I found it was very rude from those people to think you are a waitress! This proves that they lack the ability to see and observe and they just behave according to their own "false" stereotypes like a troop lacking any kind of "consciousness" and "awareness"!! Such people must make more effort to grow and improve their mentality! This has really surprised me and I wanted to leave a note here just in case someone from the same "stereotype background" came to read it. I'm not an Asian nor a European.
Besides, "humblness" is not the quality of many people...
Thank you so much for this video, really informative. You are great! Keep shining 😊🫶🌍.
So glad I found your RUclips channel. You are so full of very good advice. You present it in a clear, precise way. Thank you.
I'm so very very happy to hear your explanation about this topic, I'm in my 50s dreaming and working my passion as an artist and I'm happy with my career doing my crafts even sometimes I was limited from my resources but that's not a problem for me cause I do understand that was normal to happen occasionally. What's really important is just to continue working with any art piece we can make using any available materials around and from there I assure that we where be surprised for the results and realizing that there's no limit in art, it's just us if we limit our self to work.
I'm a 50+ adult finally pursuing my creative side, after many starts and stops. Thank you for your words of wisdom and empathy. Regret scars more than fear.
Hi Elaine, your experience in the past could be your most valuable assets! And age, of course, could be an advantage. Take one or two social media, build an artist website, find a routine and keep on working!
Great channel, been working through all your videos.
Totally agree with your comments. Covers exactly what I am going through now. 50 years old and after thinking about concentrating on my art for 30 years, I finally gave up a good career to pursue a life as an Artist. Not easy but for me, definitely the right decision. In many ways I feel it is be better by waiting so long.
Age does give you a lot of life experience, good and bad so use that to your advantage.
Good luck to anyone doing the same.
Hi Cham! Thanks for sharing! Wish you all the best in your journey!
Thank you, great video, thanks for caring, I'm 57 and my mother was active till 80, so I'm giving myself the same timeline to stay motivated and any extra will be a bonus. Nobody lives forever, which I realised when she passed.
This is great video very intelligent and openminded
Thank you! You are so practical and said a lot of things I wondered about. I'm 55 and getting into art seriously now. Thank you again.
You are SO funny. When you pulled out your exerciser, I laughed out loud! I just found you while researching camera picks for artists last week, subscribed immediately as I love your down to earth approach. As a 54 yr old who had her first official art show this month…I am wondering if you are listening to my computer (like Amazon does!) as this is so pertinent to me! 😆and then when you said “cut out sugar, dairy, gluten”…who are you-Jiminy Cricket? Will be following you and your new residency venture…God bless you and all your endeavors. 💕💕
Hey Brenna, thanks for subscribing! I need to get back to exercising (proceed to pull out my exerciser)! 😅 I have an Amazon Echo, I don't know what it does to me. I hope AI gets smarter and solve all our problems. 😥 Did you watch the movie Cowspiracy (2014)? People watch this movie would talk like me. Ask Jimmy Cricket if he had seen that movie!
I loved this video! I've always believed in the fact that you're never too young or too old to do something that makes you happy, especially in art. Thank you and best wishes on your ongoing work and career!
You just made me motivate my mom to reopen her dream sewing business! ❤️
You are beautiful... Your Aura and your Soul... Thank you so much for all things of your advice, it can be of much help to me. I wish you more good things in life.
I became a professional artist with gallery representation at age eighty-four. There is NO mandatory retirement age for creativity.
Hi Robert, lovely to hear! That's very exciting and motivating! 💯
Hi, I have seen many videos by you. I am impressed with your research,information and practical advice. That is realistic. Every word you say is honest,genuine,well-meaning, to help everyone succeeded. What you say in this video about art at older age is true. Success does not come easily but one must follow one's passion,take care of how money is spent wisely, health,using past experience and facing competition and being not just honest but wise too in facing questions people may ask. Thank you very much. By the way, you narrated how ppl asked you to bring this or that thinking you are a waiter. You faced it though you were a trained artist from a well-known college. That is truly brave of you. Please continue making such videos. I like them a lot. Thank you really.
Hi Ravindra, thanks for your message! I am trained as a filmmaker from dramatic art school, worked as a photographer for several years before devoting to this art-business project. Many artists say: “Oh so you are not a real artist, coz you are a corporate photographer!” The world of art need to be more open minded for sure!
very good video for me.
in 50s still working.
Thanks
it is only the rich people and those who has back ups who can be a fulltime artist at a young age. So it's not too late.Once you'll have the time, you'll be able to do it.
Thanks for the video. It has given me a lot of encouragement!
Thank you for another very insightful video!
A very inspiring video of you again!
Congratulations with your PhD research position! I am so happy for you!
May be in the (near) future you could tell us something about the topic of your research.
Thanks for your sharing 💓 Always feel encouraged and learn something new from your videos.
Amazing. You answer questions that I've had for years and some that I didn't know that I had. Thanks again for a great video!
Heartwarming video. Thank You!
Sound advice! Thank you!
THank you so much for this video. it is so helpful.
I had my "mid life crisis" (the first one) early (in my 30's). I went to art school (The National Art School - Sydney Australia) with the express intention of being a high school art teacher (taught into my early 50's). What I noticed was that everybody at Art school had an interesting life story, as to why they were there. I went because I had always intended pursuing this type of study late in life.....but then Mum died in her 50's and I thought BETTER DO IT NOW! Some students were getting through divorce, others recovering from mental illness, or physical illness, or leaving careers that had burnt them out and left them traumatised etc etc (would male a great book! Or photo essay, for a Phd film student). Never mind learning Art, these schools are hospitals for the soul. Presently in my 50's I still love art but I'm lazy, crazy and easily distracted (At the moment I'm studying full-time engineering). As for impressing gallery owners.....they are zoo-keeping pimps! They keep us in their "stable" for a reason....because we are like race horses for them. The moment we can't run (sell) they will shoot us! (Ok I'm being a bit extreme, but gallery owners who care are rare). We as artists need to abandon the gallery system and sell and promote ourselves (let them come to you!). In the end if you crave validation from gallerists and curators it will just paralyse you creatively. Remember too that living a creative life can take make many shapes. Ultimately your grandest work of art is the Engineering of YOUR life, and surmounting challenges life poses. Trust me, even "successful" artists quite often at the peak of their success are deeply unhappy as they realise the folly of the "art scene" which is fake and facile, unlike art itself which is a grand reflection of the creator God (amen). So make art, be happy and as long as you have time, food, materials and shelter, that should be enough!!!! Love the channel, have fun doing the Phd!
Thanks for sharing your life story! I also went to study in Sydney (Faculty of Art History, Sydney Uni) and for a change, I went into completely different things for several years. Now I am back to the Faculty of Art, trying to blend in as if I haven't left. Many people think it is too late to start a PhD (or a Masters etc) in the second half of life, but I really think it depends. It depends on how many years you still have to live. If we can life into our 80s, the 50 is the new 30! About happiness, it's unfortunate today happiness is very streamlined - being successful at one's career, having wonderful children or cute dogs, achieving at sports etc... They are considered the classical superlative receipt for happiness. In the art world, is probably the equivalent of 'making it to Venice' or end up in a renowned contemporary art museum. It was almost politically wrong to say I'm happy doing the opposite. Like doctors are not correct to say: 'I am happy euthanizing my patience'. The formula for happiness are very mono-thematic, which leads to unhappiness, dissatisfaction, and other life struggles among some of us. The control of value has always been there since the beginning of our societies. But in the past I feel that artists were not so much involved in this rat-race (at least not poets in the ancient China). I believe in bringing diversity of values, the questions is... how?
@@VeryPrivateGallery How to bring diversity of value? By doing what you are doing! I’m in year 1 of a full time 5 year degree. People are saying “too late…. Why waste money on it? Etc etc”. They did the same thing when I studied Art full time AND also said “so selfish…. You have a kid…. What about your families economic security?”. That was all a projection of their insecurities onto me. Now I’m in my 50’s and NOT stuck in a rut and the art qualification enriched my life socially and $$$$ (teaching pays ok if you work a night job as well) . So I thoroughly agree, instead of dreaming of stopping work…. Change it up and reinvigorate your life space, so you continue to be of service to yourself and just as importantly others. YoU are leading by example by sharing your journey (without sugar coating it) and this is of immense benefit! …. and yes I do tend to OVER share…. but I want people to know that choices are available and most often with effort the universe shall provide! 😃Looking forward to seeing the Phd journey as it unfolds.
Thank you for a great video!
Thank you. A great video!
Art has no age! When we look to a beautiful art work, we don't think about the age of the artist who made it! But we would love to know about the artist, their techniques and other artworks, their personality, their personal experience, how they become artists, their challenges and stories they went through in their journey, etc
Age is instead important in moving from a stable job to any "new business" as business building requires to have financial savings to live on while setting the business (any business not only art) and wait for the required time for the business to become lucrative. Having a part time job or a full time one will help in reducing the financial risks and this can apply to anyone starting a new business and in any domain.
Art is not about age. And if I get to know that a certain beatiful art is made by a late bloomer, that artist becomes more precious to me !!
If certain gallaries may refuse fome artists because of their age or their starting age in the art industry, there may exist also other galleries who will do the opposite. Moreover, online galleries and online presence (website, social media, groups, forums,..) are also another alternative!
You are amazing !!!❤
It is too late when we are dead! We might be tomorrow, so let's effing do it now!!!
thank you half century as a visual artist just now going live
It takes courage to talk about this subject. Bravo.
I'm 35 and I feel too old to be trying to pursue art sometimes. I think "I'm too old for this, I should have my life figured out by now". As Steven Pressfield would say, "this is Resistence".
Great video!
What would be your suggestion for building your record? Building social medial? an online portfolio? applying to art contests? I’d love to see a follow up video regarding this. 🌻
Alice Ravenal Huger Smith... "... so as a matter of course, I started on the appointed road. A great deal of time is saved by a signpost clearly lettered."
Great video
Hi! Found your channel recently! Subscribed:) you put out really great informative videos.
The only suggestion I have is for you not only to say “welcome back to my channel” but to say your name first. I think this would help connect your viewers better to you. Best of luck 👍
Hi 🙋🏻♀️ Ellie, my name is Mo, people call me “No” sometimes 😂 coz the phone autocorrelation 😆
Grandma Moses started painting at the age of 78.
Hello teacher, I am studying for a diploma in illustration in Hong Kong.
I have been doing fashion illustration work for more than ten years. Now I want to develop my own artistic career in freelance industry, but because of insufficient academic qualifications and too many types of works, if I want to consult, what advice would you have that would be more suitable for my development direction? Thank you.
Hi Yinfong, if you want to do freelancing work, you don't need a MA. You are already doing a BA in design/illustration in HK, that's sufficient. However, if you want to enter the world of art, especially contemporary art, you might face some difficulties. In China the world of art has a wider range like watercolor, oil painting, crafts, design etc, but in Western countries most of Chinese art forms won't make it to the museums and galleries. There is definitely a big cultural difference.
Sure is never too late, art is about talent owned not about age
♥
Hi,
How are you.
still you not telling your home town in Beijing.
i love to shopping Art products in Meishi guan area.
Are you from chaoyang district or Haidian District
I just like to know.
Regards
Good luck
The best time to become a professional artist is 20 years ago. The second best time is today.
Love it!
i heartly request to comment reader ,
plz help me to grow
Ha, I’m 60!
omg, if it was for this society, they would bury everybody over 40, especially women... what a sick world we live in :/
People ask me “why do you return to Europe for your studies?” Coz they think it would be harder to do it in a foreign language. I was like: “Because in China most PhD positions have an age limit of 35 y/o.” -What you said is true. Some societies have more biases than others.
People ask me “why do you return to Europe for your studies?” Coz they think it would be harder to do it in a foreign language. I was like: “Because in China most PhD positions have an age limit of 35 y/o and I have just passed my 35th birthday.” -What you said is true. Some societies have more biases than others, some have less. But there is always a “hack”!
50s isnt old
🤲🎨🎨🎨💐
You are so beautiful... You have good Aura and fine Soul... I wish you more good things in life... I'm a Visual Artist from the Philippines. Just call me ArAn.
Haha, someone thinks age 50 is being old?
Yeah I am 35 and I am considered “too old” for most jobs in China... 🤦🏻♀️
You talk too much nonsense...not coming to the point...
My husband couldn’t agree more.
Ha ha
Everyone can do art, particularly if you "get" the basics easily (some people have easier time with drawing or values than others -- despite studying). But not everyone can become a successful artist. Age DOES play a major role. Not only because you can't easily create a brand around yourself if aged (galleries care about brands, not paintings, essentially), but also in your 50s and your 60s you do have cognitive decline which prevents you from creating FRESH things. This is why artists in their late 20s and 30s do the best: they have had 10 years to built a brand, and their brain is still functioning in their 30s/40s to create shocking, new art. The already-established artists in their 50s usually run on steam and previous marketing. Even Picasso, didn't create anything worthwhile after he turned 60. His high-season was in his 30s and 40s with a few bright spots here and there in his 50s (but in his case he was a pioneer already, so it was easier for him to innovate). The rest of us, starting at that age, we have no chance in making a career out of it. Yes, they can pick a niche and find an audience locally or online, but that is not the same as being selling paintings for thousands of dollars to billionaires via galleries and auctions. So please don't encourage middle aged people to leave their jobs to become artists. They should do art on their free time only, and see where that takes them overtime.
I started painting more seriously at age 47, and I'm now 49. My brain does not work the same as it did 10 years ago art-wise (I was a collage artist before, with a lot of success). Yes, I could even illustrate a book now, sell a few paintings on Etsy, but that's not the same as doing art that NYTimes would want to write an article about me. There's a difference between hobby or side-hustle job, and leaving your job completely to try and penetrate an already over-saturated low-brow market, or a high art market that is full of gatekeepers and who constantly only care about new blood. So, lay off the dreams a bit, and be more realistic.
Physical (and numerological) conditions do play a role. Many companies in China refuse to hire people over 35 years old for associate level jobs, and many didn’t want to hire women in their fertile years. Because they say: if you are older you have more sick leaves, if you are a mother, you will have maternity leaves. From what I see and read, there is more age discrimination in the labor market in China, than gender discrimination.
Luckily for art, the age is not as restrictive (like in the labor market in China). You can start in your late 40s and 50s. What matters is how many years we still have to live, instead of how many we have lived.
Imagine if a gallerist have to choose between a stage 4 cancer patient who is making great art in his 30s, or a healthy pensioner early retired in his 50s-60s, who would he choose?
Starting a career older is not ideal. But we can still fight with some leverage. Maybe you have built a strong network of friends. Maybe your children can help out with some fresh ideas. Maybe you have saved more money to invest in your art brand. Those could all become the counter strikes against aging.
Yet, it is not easy. I have just finished chatting with a writer who started a writing career in his mid-50s. He felt that every year his goal seems to run further and further away. He wanted to reach the goal before his time, so he has a lot of catching up to do. I truly wish anyone who wanted to pursue a honorable goal could reach it eventually!
Thank you so much for this video! It was encouraging and realistic.