Is It Too Late To Start Creating Art? - The Creative Soul Collection

Becoming an artist later in life may seem like an unconventional path, but it is never too late to pursue your passion and creativity. Many people have found that their artistic side emerges later in life, and they go on to create meaningful work and achieve success. In this blog post, I will explore some of the reasons why becoming an artist later in life is possible and may even be better, and how you can get started.

 To get started I wanted to touch on some famous people who started their careers later in life. The first is Laura Ingalls Wilder who began writing for a newspaper in her 40’s. And it wasn’t until her 60’s that she began writing her now famous books. Vera Wang started out as a figure skater, and then she tried her hand at journalism. She didn’t open her first bridal boutique until she was 40, but now she’s famous for her designs. Henry Ford didn’t create the model T until he was 45.

Some more famous artists that didn’t start creating till later in life were Grandma Moses who started painting in her 70s.

Apple Butter Making by Grandma Moses 1944 - 1947

Paul Cezanne painted his whole life but didn’t gain any success till his 50s.

Mont Sainte-Victoire by Paul Cezanne c.1895

Bill Traylor was broke and homeless at 85. At that time he was discovered by Charles Shannon, who attempted to promote his work. It was'n’t till years later that Taylor’s work would be recognized.

Untitled (Exciting Event) by Bill Traylor c.1947

Mary Delany was 68 and a widow for the second time when she began her art career as a paper collage artist.

Amaryllis Reginae; Mexican Lily, by Mary Delany, 1775

Reasons why starting to create art later in life can be better:

1 - Life experience adds depth and meaning to your art

As we grow older, we accumulate life experience, which can add depth and meaning to our art. We have a wealth of memories, emotions, and insights that we can draw on to create art that is personal and authentic. This depth and authenticity can be very appealing to audiences and collectors, who are drawn to work that reflects the artist's unique perspective.

2 - Technology has made it easier to learn and create

The rise of digital tools has made it easier than ever to learn and create art. There are countless online resources, tutorials, and communities that can help you develop your skills and find your artistic voice. You can also use digital tools to experiment with different techniques and mediums, without the need for expensive materials or studio space.

3 - Age is just a number

Age is just a number, and it should never hold you back from pursuing your dreams. Many successful artists started their careers later in life, and their age did not hinder their creativity or success. Some of the most celebrated artists in history, such as Grandma Moses and Henri Rousseau, began their artistic careers later in life and went on to achieve international recognition.

4 - There is a growing appreciation for older artists

In recent years, there has been a growing appreciation for older artists and their contributions to the art world. Museums and galleries are showcasing the work of older artists, and collectors are actively seeking out their work. This has created a new market for older artists and provides opportunities for recognition and financial success.

Getting started as an artist later in life can be intimidating, but it is never too late to start.

Here are some tips to help you get started: 

Find your inspiration - explore different art forms and styles to find what inspires you the most.

Invest in your education - take classes, workshops, or online courses to develop your skills and learn new techniques.

Create a dedicated workspace - set up a dedicated space where you can create your art and be inspired.

Join an artistic community - connect with other artists in your area or online to get feedback, support, and inspiration.

Share your work - start by sharing your work with friends, family, and online communities. This will help you gain exposure and feedback, and build your confidence as an artist.

In conclusion, becoming an artist later in life is a not only possible, but somthing that can lead to personal fulfillment and professional success. With the right mindset, tools, and resources, you can embark on a creative journey that will bring joy and meaning to your life.