I'm 45 didn't take any art classes after middle school. In July I started doing fluid acrylic painting. I struggled to even think of myself as an artist. I have friends who are educated as Artists and make their living with it. I finally worked up the courage to show a friend, in the art world, some pictures of my paintings. She wants one - I was so excited. But nothing touched me more than when she introduced me as an Artist to one of her clients.🙂
I'm just getting back to my art at age 70. I've sold a few pieces through shows. I'm now considering a website, if I can get past the technical challenges.
Diana Burns you can just use wix, square space or Weebly. Those are cookie cutter version for website. Later you can go into harder complex websites but that’s what I would do
Hi Diana! Go for it! There are different types of websites you could do. And they can evolve. Find someone who can show you how this internet stuff works. The simple site that won't cost a lot is one that just shows your stuff. It is like a brochure. "Here's my stuff!" Trouble with that is, this sort of site sends the message "None of this is for sale." Even if you scream, "This is for sale, here's the price, contact me!!" That simply does not work anymore. On top of the simple 'brochure' site you should have a 'social media base' on Facebook, where you can essentially do your 'blogging' , then maybe Twitter, and then major promotion work on Instagram. (Post constant updates on your work, your finished stuff etc with links pointing back to your website and Facebook. With that presence established, sell your work on Ebay, like Jose Trujillo, who has been very successful. This is the least expensive way. If you can do videos of yourself you can tie into UA-cam. Just like Rafi and Klee, or Robin Seamark (who isn't active right now) or a slew of others who show how they paint. All very cost effective. In a nutshell, this is the new way. The next level might look the same, but on your site there would be links to "Fulfillment" sites that do all the sales processing for you. You would probably benefit greatly from someone who can explain how this works. Instead of you delivering / shipping artwork physically to a gallery that sells your stuff, you would be posting pictures of your work with links to sites like etsy or IndieMade or ten others that you could partner with and their online software processes the sale and sends your cut to your online bank, and the invoice to you to do the shipping. The last option is to go all in and use a service like Shopify (that you pay for monthly, along with your website hosting costs) that works in the background of your website doing all the e-commerce stuff. There is a lot to learn to use Shopify or others. Or you can get a local developer to build you a site that does the same, probably using woo commerce and the commercial version of wordpress (not the 'free' version), and a credit card processing service, like Stripe. The more complicated it gets the more cost to you, but at the same time, the more information you will have about your clients and the more private your data. It's all possible! Just start with a Facebook page for your new Art Business, and an Instagram account. Start telling people who you are and show what you do. Try selling a couple of pieces on eBay. Your biggest expense is a good camera. Cheers and all the best, Sean.
I turned 70 this February and am determined to live the rest of my life as a working artist. I have listened to the nay sayers all my life and did not pursue my dream. At this stage, I no longer give a rat's a** what anyone thinks. I tell young people to not wait like I have. Go for it.
I so needed to read your comment. I just turned 70 and finally feel like I'm in a good place in life. I am going to start doing artwork today. I just needed to know that I'm not alone with these thoughts lol. I'm American but live on an island in Sweden 🇸🇪. Good 👍 luck to you and take care 🙂
To quote the great Barbara Sher: "It's Only Too Late If You Don't Start Now." Or, as my grandmother said to my cousin who was lamenting that it was too late to go to med school, because she'd be fifty when she graduated, "God willing, you're going to be fifty anyway. The question is are you going to be a doctor when you get there?" It's never too late to dive into something you were meant to do.
Tell her to Go to med school. My step sister got a medical degree after 40. My sister inlaw's Mother got her medical degree after 50's. Both had family practices and did well in their professions. You got to be willing to give up the comforts of living in the same town, be willing to travel to where ever you can get your degree and interships.
I love how many customers come into theartshop i work at who are getting back into art -or- trying it for the first time in theirs 60s+ Art will always wait for you ♡ it doesn't expire
in my case , I was corporate and stressed to the max , which in turn the stress caused 2 heart attacks , quad bypass surgery and many other health issues , went on disability with no income , nearly lost the house , managed to sell it and moved out into rural Ontario , started my own art gallery representing other artists and never looked back , and now at 60 I can create what I want when I want, living my dream.
I was told growing up that it was too hard to make a living off art unless you’re a graphic designer (which I had little interest in.) so I went into the Air Force and learned “a real job.” Now I’m a 36 yo SAHM to 3 kids and pursuing that art career. I don’t regret my service or anything like that, but I wish I didn’t stop believing in myself and kept drawing through it all. Despite all of that, this is what I’m doing now, and I’m not going to stop.
When I was 43 I quit work to take art classes...hoping to become even an ENTRY level graphic designer. I loved the classes but was so discouraged because several of the youngsters in class were so much better than I was and I figured that I would never be hired when competing against them . All of the input I received (research, counselors, local artists, etc) was that if I wasn't at the TOP of the artistic skill set, I would never "make it" as an artist. SO, I gave up, cried, and went back to work in a cubicle doing data entry. Here I am, 58, 14 years in my cubicle, imagining how much skill I could have gained, how much art I could have enjoyed making, and how incredibly hire-able I'd be if I hadn't given up. I have HUGE regrets. However, I'm now painting every day with the plan of having an "art career" when I retire in 4 years on my (iffy) social security income of $900/month. IT AINT OVER TILL IT"S OVER!
I'm in the same place as you are now, I probably make less than you and I turn 60 in two weeks. I have about 5 years before the gov. pension kicks in. Good luck to you in your efforts.
I'm 28, and just started taking some fine arts classes in February of this year, for the first time since High School. A lot of the kids in the program are 4-10 years younger than me, and are all MUCH more talented at it than I am!! But I have to remind myself that we're all on our own paths, and that my artistic satisfaction should never be based on another person's success.
I still keep my day job so I don’t stress about bills and benefits. My art is just going to have to be my side hustle. Some people hold a part time job as well as their “day job”. Mine is just art.
When I started my art career at the age of 53 I had a feeling of panic that I'm running out of time, how do I get to where I need to be before I retire. And then the penny dropped!! Artists don't retire :) If I live to 102 like my Nan I have another 49 years of being an Artist:) BUT if I only have a day left, I died as an Artist and that will be a lasting epitaph of who I truly am. Success and happiness fellow artists no matter what your age :) xxx
There is definitely a cultural bias in this country when it comes to education, career, career changes, etc. Although age is only a number, maturity plays a monumental role in when/how/why we choose to do something and then choose to stick with it. My personal opinion is that if we focus time during development (parenting, school, etc) on the clearly obvious passions and personal gifts we all possess, we would foster change in society. I, too, am one of those who knew from very young (early teens) that I wanted to be an artist, gosh dang it if I wasn't conditioned otherwise. Learning and practicing skills through the years definitely helped but the joy you get from deciding to follow that passion is AHHHMAZING!!! Thanks to you both for your videos to inspire and motivate my art career, it helps to know others have forged a path ❤️😊
I will be 66 in 10 days. 3.5 years ago I signed up for a college fused glass class because I knew the instructor (glass blower/fused glass artist). Many colleges offer free tuition to seniors(over 62). All my life I was told that the many art classes I took were a waste of time. That I needed to do something responsible. 🤣 I finally took the glass class at 62(my instructor tried to get me to get into it 25 years ago and I didn't listen). I love it. For the last 3 summers I have been selling at artisan markets and craft shows here in northern Michigan. I'm not going to lie, it's hard. I do shows or events at least once a week from late June until the end of October, and also a half dozen events in November and December. I pay the son of a fellow artist (petoskey stone jewelry, she's 64) to help me set up when we do shows together. But I do many alone. But I tell people is that Colonel Sanders started KFC at 65 and my mother lived until she was 4 months shy of 100. So, I figure I have at least 30 to 40 years yet. 😁
What Klee said, about how when she was younger she wasn't actually ready for the serious crazy hyper focus drive you need to have to push an art career forward. I wasn't ready either, until I was. And that's probably how it is for so many people. You're not actually capable, until one day you look up from your desk and realise that you're actually in the middle of doing it.
Diana Parkhouse Yes, this. For me, it was a slow and steady, consistent buildup. I realized at one point that unlike the romantic relationships that never quite worked out as I wished them to, art was the big commitment for me and clearly I was, am, in it for life.
I appreciate this video so much! I spent 20 years of my life taking care of my family and now I'm finally ready to do things for myself. I've been putzing around with art for ten years but just now am finally finding my voice and getting ready to seriously pursue art. I'm 46 and have read a lot of books and articles about "late bloomers" where they define "late" as age 30. Ridiculous. Grandma Moses didn't really start painting until her late 70s. It's never too late and it's refreshing to have validation of that. Thanks for all you do, Rafi and Klee! You are huge inspirations to me!
Why people mention this example with Grandma Moses again and again? She was a primitivist, it is not the same as being a pro artist and start a career in late age now, in our world full of beginner artists! Mentioning this example sounds like a joke
I'm so glad you made this video. I've been a wildlife biologist for 26 years now (I am 53) and have no intention of not being a biologist. That being said, I've recently, in the last 2 years, discovered that I also like to paint wildlife and have become fairly good at it (I have absolutely no background in art other than an Art Appreciation class in college). I am trying to start a little side business with it. I've done a few art shows (I felt like a fish out of water), and have sold a few pieces. I've even recently created a website, facebook page, and also have my own business cards. I'm not sure where this is going, but it will be fun to find out. At the very least, I will have something to do when I retire. Also, Rafi, I have more wizard hairs than you.
I totally agree with Klee on this. When I was eighteen, I didn't even know who I was and was still trying to figure out how I fit into the world (heck, I'm still figuring that out), so starting an art career or any career for that matter was beyond me. With age comes perspective and experience and understanding, all of which feed into art and how we express ourselves. As we age, I think we have less tolerance for the crap in our lives that is draining and pointless and makes us miserable, so to me it makes perfect sense that as we age our creative endeavors would become more of a priority. I create because it makes me happy and gives me purpose and age really has nothing to do with it.
I am older now and it's perfect. Without the obligations and pressures of a younger age, I have more time, less distractions, and the ability to risk. This past April (2022) I started a new business around art bags that mixes several of my loves... writing, designing, teaching, and creating one-of-a-kind bags... and in June, I turned sixty. It provides a focus, fun, purpose, and meaning to this stage of life. SO GLAD to have made the decision. I've failed many times in the past. This feels different.
I worry about stock piling paintings for no one and saw an article on NPR about a man who died and had over 400 paintings in storage. None of the galleries were interested in him when he was alive. The family tried to get them interested in his paintings when he died. Out of frustration and a sincere drive to show off the collection, the family opened his house like a gallery and people lined up around the block to see his art. Now the galleries are interested. Imagine if he had used UA-cam or Instagram at 80 years old. Seems like a lot of artists died poor only for some gallery/collector to get interested later. The irony and injustice of the real world. I was thinking about pitching a tent in the back yard and seeing what happened. I thought maybe I could do a garage-art sale and exhibit. Any thoughts?
This reminds me of a conversation I had with my grandfather as a child. I said "I can't do that now, I'm too old" I didn't want my grandfather to feel bad so I told him "You're not as old as dead!" He laughed at that. But it's something I think back on now, and I have to tell myself, I'm not as old as dead.
This was super excellent...I'm in my FIFTIES and just took up oil painting. I was so convinced that I would suck because my sister is a wonderful painter (even though she gave it up for the corporate life)....triple thumbs up to everything you said about rewriting the narrative in your head.
If Grandma Moses can start in her late 70s, ANYBODY can start an art career! She painted until her death at 101. I will create until I cross over as well...
I lived the regular job while doing art life, and it did not work out for me because I hated all my jobs. I think there's a lot to be said for that way of living because it does give you financial stability, and it takes the pressure off needing to sell your artwork to keep a roof over your head. But it is absolutely vital that you like the job you have and that the job respects the fact that you are a human being with a life that the job is supposed to be supporting, not one that expects you to exist solely for the job. And sadly, I think jobs that are good for humans are becoming pretty hard to find. The modern job market - I don't know, I think it's getting hard to be a healthy, happy human being with a job. My last job started out good for me as an artist, but after a change in management, it became a devourer of lives - more and more demanding and tiring, etc. And it wasn't the first job I've seen that happen to. I'm 57 now, and I'd been planning to retire from my last job and do my art for the rest of my life, but things were getting so bad on the job that I up and quit, and decided to start my art retirement career ten years early. Who knows how it will work out, but I'm a lot happier now than I was before. I did the job + art thing on and off for a few decades, and broke it up a bit with alternating job and art - earning as much as possible as fast as possible, then quitting and living on the savings for as long as possible. That was doable if I was frugal enough - which I am. Frugality is a sport with me. But again, I feel like the job market isn't supporting that kind of flexibility anymore. However you make it work, just be sure that the thing you spend most of your waking hours doing is good for your physical and emotional wellbeing.
Great inspiration today. Story, I am 45, moved to Austin last year. And yes I am constantly working towards finding the connections for an art career while working full time as an accountant. I am happy I moved to Austin last year. Now I have a Sunday figure drawing group. I also draw every day. Still searching for the art that is mine to make while studying as much as possible.
When I retired from teaching in the public school system , I got a shirt that stated “I have a retirement plan, I plan to paint,” I think that says it all.😃
I'm glad you guys are back, I need that inspiration. Right now I'm having a hard time and I'm homeless living in Airbnbs and my car. It's not really all that badd except for the fact that he don't have a space to create art....😪
I’m 60 (almost 61) and really just seriously getting started. That certainly wasn’t the plan! My first husband always insisted I “get a real job”. Art was hard to fit in among full time banking job, motherhood, cook, housekeeper, laundry maid, gardener...you get the picture. My feeling self-worth was way too low to insist on my dream. So I didn’t. I became chronically ill with 4 tickborne diseases and ended up in the ER. Life changed. Felt worthless. Left a few years ago. New life now. I’m getting a few commissions for pet portraits and hopefully will be able to do paintings I’m inspired to do and sell them! I’m looking forward to the future! Getting older but braver! I don’t think it’s ever too late!
I have always been artistic but it was only When last year at the age of 43 that I decided to take the plunge and start my art Career, I agree with Klee I don't think I was really ready when I was younger. Your never too old the most inspiring thing was a friend of mine she was 84 yrs old when she started selling her art!!! You are never too old!!!
I'm also the person who was always about "Day Job Comes FIRST" no matter how inconvenient it was to me, no matter how little any of my employers would have sacrificed in return (read: nothing). I got started a decade ago, but because it always came last, I never got off the ground because I would miss every event and not be motivated enough to do uncomfortable things. Now, art is all I do. It's still bringing in less than $100/month, and I often think it would be SO MUCH EASIER to just get a retail job to alleviate some of this guilt, but I know that if I do, I'll go back to missing every opportunity (because of scheduling) and never asking for time off (because I never could). Also, nobody seems to hire truly part time anymore, which is super weird (Vancouver).
It's like you read my mind... I SOOOO needed to hear a voice of reason/positivity to drown out the voices of haters and kill-joys in my head!! I'm Klee's age, give or take a couple of years, and because of your videos and book I finally have the push and support I need to be the artist I always wanted to be but kept putting off. I lost a lot opportunities in my life by listening to the negative advice of significant others. Recently, when I decided to go back to art school to finish my illustration degree (which I did), my father told me that "Illustration was for young people" WTF!! Art careers have expiration dates!!! Unfortunately I used my membership of the Gen X club as an excuse for giving up and chickening out from pursuing a life I want to live. Luckily, I found your videos at a time when the desire to create art /art career has overpowered the soul-sucking-force of living a life of doing what is practical but hating-ever-minute. Thank you guys for putting out such truthful and truly inspirational videos. They are a great kick in the behind when I need it most!! PS LOVE YOUR BOOK!!!
For me, when we got married and quickly had four kids my artist and writing side kind of got pushed to the back because I didn’t know how to balance being a wife, and mom, keep up the house , balance a budget and doing everything I needed to do plus trying to be creative. Now that our kids are grown, my husband and I are both trying harder to be creative.I just had a two-year stint babysitting our now almost three year granddaughter , Which I loved doing very much, but I’m finally able to retire from that job as our daughter is starting next week for maternity leave . She will not be returning to work till both the kids start school at five. She knows I’m done babysitting. I helped her with this one but it’s my turn to get creative. I did start a UA-cam channel doing some beadwork and crafting but it’s turned more into a look what I picked up and I hate use the word “haul “videos but it is on jewelry and craft supplies and stuff. That’s all I could balance with watching a baby , than toddler for the last two years. Now I’m hoping to find out what it is I really want to do, jewelry, writing, painting, yes to all but I got to figure out which one is my most passionate one so I don’t spread myself too thin and do nothing! I love watching your videos because I love seeing your creative space and how you guys have made this your life. I have an extremely supportive husband who encourages me to do whatever I want to do I just got to figure out what it is , and going on 60 this year it’s a lot harder to figure it out. But starting next Tomorrow at 4 pm , no more babysitting! 😁The fun begins!
This video has been online for about an hour, and look at all those in-depth comments already! Looks like we can all relate. 😊 Keep on creating, guys! 💐
I LOVE THIS SO MUCH!! I'm so glad that dude asked that question, because the answer you two had was exactly what I needed to hear. I kind of abandoned my art life in my early 20s, with the occasional dabbling here and there. But at 38, it's still what I love and what I want my life to be about. So I'm trying to make the time and push myself to create because in my heart it's all I want. And I too get distracted with the "is it too late?" question. I'm trying to push that question out of my mind because intuitively and intellectually, I know it's not a question I need to keep asking. The answer is NO. But society does a number on us and makes us think we need to have everything figured out by the time we're 25 or else your ship has sailed. How ridiculous is that! So I'm doing away with that kind of thinking because it's counter-productive and ultimately it's false logic. It really really is! Thank you for re-enforcing that!!
I fully agree. Derek, I have tried the art career bit since I was young. Due to health and surgeries as a child and young adult that was extremely difficult. It's hard having an art career when always in a hospital getting cut on. Social media in some of my lifetime wasn't a thing. I was 15 when the internet became available for the general population. Even after it was available we were stuck to dial up and basic email. All the platforms there are now didn't exist. Putting yourself out there as an artist was a bit harder and even harder when you couldn't walk. I had various different opportunities that basically went down the drain because I was stuck in a chair or on crutches or because I dont like limitations I crawled everywhere. Fast forward to 2015. two major surgeries and still trying to get an art career going. I also began to think I was to old to try. Thing is, I breathe, sleep, eat, all things art. It's as important to me as breathing. Do your natural instincts tell you to stop breathing because it's hard or because your older? No! Absolutely not. My last surgery was Aug. 28th, 2015. It took til 2017 to heal. I used my art as my therapy. I've had other artist tell me to give up. "To old", "The younger generation of artists have a massive one up on you. Save yourself the heartache." So, October 12, 2019 I opened my art business. I'm 39. I'll be 40 in July. No matter how hard it seems, No matter who says what, If you're passionate about it you aren't to old. Sometimes, we have to lose who we are to find who we are but once you find you, don't let go. It's only too late when you take your last breath. I don't know you Derek but you have my support. Chase that dream, keep the good advice, ignore the bad and find what works for you. It isn't easy by any means but wow is it worth it! Stay amaze balls!
Until 5 years ago I had never thought that I could paint or make art. I took a free 1-hour watercolor class and fell in love. Sometimes things were good enough to sell some cards and prints but something was missing. Last July, after a difficult hospitalization, I came home with a strong need to paint. I've been painting every day since then. I also discovered art tutorials on UA-cam which is how I found your videos. I paint every day now. The walls in my small apartment are covered with my framed work and I love every piece. That's not to say that any of it is marketable. I have only the kind words of family and friends who are very supportive. Of all the video tutorials that I watch (I think of them as helpful suggestions) the two of you have inspired and encouraged me to do my own thing and to paint from my heart. I am 76 years old and have leukemia. I have my family, my dog and my painting and life is good. Thank you for being part of my art.
"If you love to create, then you are an artist, so create." I SO needed to hear that very line. Had a long career as a teacher and have gotten back to my art, especially teaching myself how to watercolor. I struggle with actually calling myself an "artist" now. Questioned just because I can draw and paint, does that make me an artist? Perhaps yes. Thank you so much Rafi and Klee for all of your videos which have inspired me immensely.
Hi Rafi and Klee, Once again another great video and insight into the creative life. It really hit home when Klee mentioned the feeling that “that ship had sailed.” I got back to art after 27 years away. I started painting again at 56. Many days I ask myself if I can ever catch up to place that I would have been had I never stopped painting. I lament that I let the stuff of life get in the way of pursuing the thing that I really love, even though I forgot it for many years. Thank you for the encouragement in your videos which really is your central theme! I will try not to let my past regrets get in the way of moving forward with creating regardless of my age.
No, It's not too late. After almost sixty years of taking care of everyone else and doing what I was "supposed" to do I have decided that It is my turn. I have always been very creative and sold pieces here and there over the years . I have always known that I am an Artist. I can't not make Art. I need it like I need air to breathe. So I have decided that I am going to become an Artrepreneur and start my own business - "Studio Steff" is in the works! I'm just learning how to get myself out there & engage with social media and it's scary, the technology is still kinda baffling, but I'm determined. I have heard that "older" people who start businesses are more successful. Rafi & Klee, you have been great encouragement and inspiration and company while I'm working. Thank you! Loving your book (I made it all the way to page 8 before I cried) Show up. Do the work. Engage. Be real. Rinse & repeat. LOL Just delivered a commission today and got another one! Yay! Small things but it will get there!
I’ve been an emergency nurse for 30 yrs, and im about to be a full time artist and part-time nurse ( I’m lucky to have 2 career passions) so at the age of 50, I’m transitioning into full time art.... your goals change as you get older, age doesn’t define you, what makes you feel alive, happy and fulfilled does.
This is so much like my own story. I drew a lot as a kid and into my early 20's. I always imagined I'd be a comic book artist. But as I approached college, I took up graphic design as my field of study, what seemed like the more practical and "adult" means to make use of my talents in an employable fashion. And while I loved learning and developing digital skills (Photoshop and the rest of the Adobe Suite...) it directed me towards mainly commercial design for page layouts and logos, and occasionally the more artistic design of complex photo montages. I would still draw my pleasure material in my free time... at least in the beginning. But more and more demands on my time in and out of work, just being tired on some days, wanting my free time to be more for entertainment, I was illustrating less and less. I'd still do some fun graphic projects, "photo art" of things I like, all made with a mouse mind you, but before I knew it.... some 20+ years had passed since I last picked up a pencil. There was always the desire to get back into illustration, not only that but to take my acquired Photoshop skills to "reboot" my drawing into the digital realm. But lots more of the "I'll get to it later" excuses while life threw me for one loop after another. When times got tough and I had to chase any job I could get, art became the furthest thing from my mind. Part of that 20 year "detour" basically. But I get get another steady graphic design job 3 years ago and just last year, just before I turned 48, I finally resolved myself to pursue the digital art dream. No more excuses, I bought my Wacom tablet and committed to the path. Not only to shake off the rust of my old hand drawing skills, but also adapting it to a stylus and creating original illustrations (not just photo manipulations) on my computer. Funny thing about the timing, it was just around the time Inktober is soon approaching, and while I wanted to participate, I didn't think 3 months practice was enough time to start showing things off online. I would have loved to have had 9 months or more to smooth off my many many rough edges. But then realized art is an *ongoing* journey, and one's style is always evolving. It never ends. So I realized now was as good a time as any. I just took the plunge. It also helped joining a Facebook group, which I did just to better understand the "rules" and structure of Inktober in general. But among all those other creatives, some experienced professionals and many others just starting out, with a few starting *again* like myself... I found a wellspring of motivation, and contrary to my earlier reservations about joining while I was still wet behind the ears, turns out that participation was like a vitamin boost to my digital drawing development. So now, 8 months into it I can honestly say I'm not sure where it's going as far as a "career" goes. I'm still holding my day job, which is still creative in its own fashion. I continue to practice, share online, and broaden my creative horizons. Guess what I'm saying is I'm enjoying the journey of self discovery and seeing where it leads me.
I'm 26, I've been writing for fun for three years... and even when I was 23 I thought I'm too old to start... and only now I decided that I'm gonna commit.
Ya it’s been a real struggle first two years so far. Last week I got sued by AP so there’s that as well. I have major art markets booked this summer but still have doubts. I keep thinking about making corporate money but was so sick of those types of ppl and work politics. Trying to keep my head up and have small side hussle to pay something. Arg!
Remember Grandma Moses! If you're living the "artist's life", when do you actually make art? I have made art my whole life and was always making things. People always wanted to buy them, so I sold them. Some I gave away as gifts. I had a gallery keep asking me for stuff but I was lax about it because I had no idea what it meant. Now I regret not seeing the opportunities I had. But I just wasn't taking art seriously as a career due to all the Messages, I guess. Now that I decided to focus on it, I find I'm not as confident about it as I used to be. It's weird but theres something about Now I have to make a go of it, that makes me hard on myself.
Thank you, again, Rafi & Klee! I can’t hear this enough. Sometimes when I’m thinking about this very thing I get quite stressed out and even scared. But then when I’m sitting in traffic on my way to or from the job I just can’t stand, even though it does pay the bills, it just slams home! I want to paint and create more than almost anything else. Want you guys to know I have been stepping it up. It’s still scary. Thank you!❤️💎
I was an RN and took care of family etc but loved art. Tried many times over the past 15 years to get my art biz going but never totally got devoted to it. I am now retired and 62. In summer of 2018 went on a dream trip to east coast and was in Gloucester, MA and Maine. Fell in love with the scenery, lighthouses etc. Came home and started watercolor painting and out of the blue I was painting like I never did before. It was exciting. Was using dollar store paints and cheap paper. Got Holbein watercolors and arches handmade paper and what a difference. Did social media and then last year did 4 art festivals. Got accepted into all of them and was exciting. Sold a lot of paintings and prints. One art show I have always wanted to be in since I was a child was the Allentown Art Festival in buffalo, ny. Very hard juried show to get into. I tried along time ago and was denied. I was accepted for this years show and it has over 300,000 attendees amongst other shows I will do this summer. Very excited and having a ball doing it. Thanks for this video. Hit home for me and I love watching you both.
Y'all are making my day. I have 3 videos to watch from you two and its awesome. I just recently caught up on all your videos and was oddly unhappy that I wouldn't be hearing your inspiration for a while. Thanks for being encouraging and uplifting to those you don't know.
Wow.. The timing of things never ceases to amaze me anymore! I can resonate with this 100%. I have struggled with the story that “It’s too late to pursue an art career now” but I remind myself that I took the path I needed to take at the time. I recently re-connected with my art and made the decision to pursue a creative career. It’s been a challenge because my entire resume is solely in sales/ admin work. What happened though is that my job was completely depleting my energy because it was without a doubt the most toxic environment Ive ever worked in. Like you, I do wish I was able to separate myself from my work environment in order to focus on my art while having a source of income. Unfortunately (or fortunately.. we’ll see) the anxiety I felt showing up everyday far outweighed the fear of being unemployed. My last day at my corporate job is tomorrow and I don’t have a Plan B. While I know I’m not in a position to start a life as a art full-time artist I can finally say that I know what I want and thats a career in a creative field. So grateful to have come across your videos during my transition! 🙏🏽❤️👩🏽🎨
I've been doing art all my life as a hobby with occasional sales while I was an elementary teacher. Now I am retiring and will spend my days doing art to supplement my small pension. I'm 65.
Great stuff as usual. We'll have to start calling you Rafi the gray! 😊 It's never too late to pursue your passions! Colonel Sanders started KFC when he was well into his 60s! Grandma Moses didn't start painting until her late 70s! Bottom line, when the urge hits you--go for it! We can be awesome and do awesome things at any age! 😊
Love love love this!!!! I too started late. In fact it's been 20 months now since I began to put in a fulltime effort into my creative work, woo hoo!!!! I listened to well meaning family and friends when I was a teen and didn't go in the direction of my heart. Many twists and turns later I'm right where I'm supposed to be and loving every challenge. Thank you for the reminder Rafi and Klee!!! 👍👍☺🥳
I am 60 and am transitioning to full-time artist. One thing that changed my whole perspective is reading 'Atomic Habits' by James Clear. I used to wait for a day when i would have a chunck of time to paint, but after reading his book (you can find a great summary of it on UA-cam) i realized that i had to make a daily habit. Even if just 2 min/day. But dont miss a day. Also. The idea to identify as an artist rather that just have a goal. If you say "i am a wildlife artist" then you will behave as one. It removes the need for so much self discipline, and instread suggests puttingt systems in place. I have become so productive. Thanks fo your video. Good luck to everybody out there getting inspired! 😊❤We are doing this!
My youngest child is graduating this May. I got to thinking about how I spent so much time saying I didn't have time for art because I was taking care of the family. After watching Rafi and Klee I realized I was using that as an excuse to not take the chance and try. I was letting my fear and excuse of not having time get in the way of what I really wanted to do. So now at 52 I am taking some risks and showing my art work on line and offering it in a local store. Still scary, and I have so much to learn yet, but I am having fun.
I did some art as a youth, for myself, no art classes. Was encouraged to focus on science, which was ok, just was not good at it. In college got a BA, and certificates in several things, not my thing. Worked at several printing jobs, and now am middle age and learning art. Have taken courses from local artists in oils and watercolor, and teaching myself how to do art. Reading books, and just painting, doing more abstract art at the moment. Never to late or early, or what ever to do art, just do it. Working at finding my artistic voice. Thanks Rafi for sharing, this has really helped me, keep it up.
Nothing has meaning except for the meaning that we give it! I think that we put the limitations on ourselves. I love you guys! Everything you has said, resonated with me. Thank you! It’s never too late to do What you love.
I’m now 50 and I only got back into art about 5 years ago after stopping creating art when I was 19. I don’t consider myself as having a career in art and although I would say I’m still finding my feet in many respects, I still consider myself successful because I am creating and growing as an artist all the time. So I would definitely encourage anyone to ignore their age and start creating now.
Hi Rafi im 34 and last March i decided to follow my art career, but hadnt taken it that serious till December. its not easy and still struggle with maintaining that motivation but i came across your channel a couple of months ago and watching you guys has helped so much... Thank you
Im trying to do it know, after serving in the military for so many years. I really can’t see myself doing anything else. I have drawn from the time I could hold a pencil. I love to paint and draw sculpt. The hard part for me really is dealing with the injuries, I have which really zap my motivation. But I’m got giving up. It’s all I ever really wanted to do.
Never too late! I feel like I had to get a bit older, more settled in my life for me to take my art journey seriously. I am 44 and i've just started working full time after a long hiatus.
THANK YOU!!!!I need to hear this. i am 60 years old i wanna paint, i wanna create jewelry, and other stuff and i keep stay it may be too late. so thank you !!
Love this guys! I just started my UA-cam channel (I'm 45), and am currently working on my art career while working full time in the corporate world ... people like you guys inspire me!!!
Thank you for the uplifting and supportive video as I dip my toes into art in my mid-50's (after not being "artistic" for about 30 years). It helps keep the anxiety about change a bit more at bay.
I'm 27 years old now and I've recently embarked on the journey of becoming a DJ and music 😮producer. I've been a competitive athlete since I left school and I no longer find solace in doing that anymore. This video has helped me be brave enough to leave what I no longer resonate with behind and go forth into this new chapter of my life in art with an unbridled commitment and passion. Thank you guys!
I think you're definitely right - never too old. The challenges may be different for someone further along in life - debt, obligations, time constraints, children etc... But. An older person also has many advantages - life experience, contacts and relationships, a probable lack of naivete, an understanding that when something goes wrong it's not the end of the world... Its all about working to your strengths. I'm 46 years old and one year into trying to make a career out of my photography. I know it will be a long haul because I face many of the challenges I listed above. But I also know I will be successful, on my own terms, because I also have the advantages I listed above. Something else we learn over time - patience, hard work and a willingness to risk failure really does pay off.
I started painting at 46. I left my normal career due to injury at around 49. At now 54 (definitely not a spring chicken) i make a living with art. And have a fair following here on youtube as well :) Even with an autoimmune disease and spine issues, so definitely doable :)
Whew! I was worried I was starting too late. Great video! I am coming up on 55 fast and have decided to get serious with my art career. My plan is to find my peoples and build a following so when I retire in the next 10 years I can step right in and be a full-time artist! How's that for a plan?
I’m 43 and just a couple years ago I got started in stained glass. I also really like to make stained glass mosaics for my garden. I’ve had others start to ask if my pieces are for sale or if I do custom work. I would love to, but I struggle to put myself out there like that. I have been retired from the military for about 11 years now. I got I’ll after returning from Afghanistan and I live with 24/7 migraines. Some days they are lower and others they are quite severe, but always there. So my projects can take quite a while, a good month for a mosaic garden brick for example. Hardly the pace to be productive or make any kind of living. It would take me a good minute to even make items for a farmers market or the like. I thought maybe I could take one one project every two months so I don’t get overwhelmed (we also have 4 kids, 2 of which have special needs). I’m just so scared of failing or falling behind and the stress is no good for my head.
Hey guys! I'm glad I found your channel. Although I am a fairly established Nature Artist, I took a break during Covid lockdowns when everything around my business model fell apart. Now, at 48, I am having a frustrating time getting back on track. Everything is costing more and it's weighing down my motivation. I feel like I am going to need to look at this like a fresh start.
I am turning 49 next month and only now getting my art carrier started. I have always loved being creative but never thought I was good enough. We have an artist’s award/ exhibition coming up. Apparently no one gets in first go. I decided to put my application in anyway, did this on a Friday and on the Monday I received an email that I have been accepted. To top things off I am currently working on a commission piece that I had received just the other day that I am almost finished with. Yes I am kicking myself for not starting a lot earlier but the way I look at it is that I was simply not ready. Age is simply just a number and you are never too old to start.
Wow! This is very inspiring. I'm an art teacher and really want to be making art full time. It's hard to think about not having security and routine of going to work. Teaching takes so much energy - mentally, emotionally and physically. When I do have breaks I'm exhausted. It has felt at 52 that it's too late. I'm 'planning' on trying to focus my summer break on making art but it feels scary.
Hi Rafi and Clee, I have always followed my own path. I think I'm pretty sure I have wings on the seat of my pants. Anyway, I have had a few runs at growing an art career. All have had some success. Some times they were adjunct to another job. Sometimes there were stand alone businesses. Determination and perseverance are key characteristics to develop. My biggest issue is that I have a very eclectic artistic drive and like using soooooo very many different mediums in creating art. I am 56 and gearing up to make art my retirement income. So.... damn the torpedoes, full steam ahead!! Thanks for all your videos. They are very encouraging.
I'm going to be teaching drawing march 18 and 25 at 123 CO-OP. In Marshall and painting. Too in march excited about it but terified also. I am older person AARGH!!
This was nice to hear. I'm not even thirty and often get into this mind set of wishing I had started "taking art seriously" or "found 'my thing'" at age six. I wish I were exaggerating.
I turned 67 last week. I have been working towards taking my art to market over the last year. I have been a creative from childhood but was never encouraged to become a creative/artist because they don't make enough to live on. Except I was encouraged to create crafts for self and others - for no pay. :)
Love the encouragement. I am just starting my art career. I have finally gotten a show at a local restaurant that is known for shows. My show will be up in May and June! I would never have had the balls to even put my work out there without your encouragement. Thank you. I recently just stopped painting for about three months...no idea why, it just happened. I guess life got in the way. Anyway, I got back in my studio three days ago, and I am alive again. I feel so much better just getting some paint in and on my hands. Again, thank both of you for your spirit and your drive to help us get our work appreciated by someone other than family.
Hi Rafi and Klee. I learned a lesson. If you post on Instagram be sure and read policies, rules and regulations. I liked too many in a few minutes and now I am blocked. I felt awful that they think I am spamming or what ever else. I have to depend on grandchildren to help me with this kind of stuff. So glad to see you again.
Thanks for putting this up! I’m sure I’m not the only one still coming across it still, and it really helps to hear stories from others who have left corporate careers for art which I’m contemplating after a decade+ also!
Yeah, thanks Derrick right it really was & still is a great question. I really hope you've begun to pursue your passions art wise. Cuz I really need to get started now myself!!! I'm 47 & have spent most of my adult years within health care as a direct caregiver. I'd say I'm descent at it...yet it's just become way too taxing. I've witnessed too much tragedy & so most of my art work, music, stories I've wrote have gotten so dark. Still, I need to fuel this fire & get through the darkness as well as stagnant bullshit so I can truly get to what's real & hope to inspire myself more plus others. I need to really surround myself with other soulful artists as mentors & get immersed.
Thanks for making this video! It is heartening. I recently discovered my love for art and Im in my 40s and feel like I missed out in my 20s and 30s. I figure it is better to start later than never and have now been trying to learn all I can to catch up, so to speak.
One of the roadblocks I’ve hit recently (I’m 50 years old) was that I started to feel like I was making a fool of myself to friends, family and coworkers. It was tough. Everyone saw my work on social media and I started feeling like people were kind of snickering at me. Like I was off on some foolish endeavour. Sadly, I let that thinking get into my head and haven’t created anything in some time. It’s a very hard discouragement to get over when it’s coupled with 50 years of acquired cynicism.
Thank you so muh for addressing this! I've been creative in various forms most of my life but just started drawing/painting a little over a year ago. I still have SO MUCH to learn and a lot of practice ahead of me, but I know that art is what I'm supposed to do. Not to be overly dramatic, but finding this form of creativity has been like finding a lost part of my soul. I still work a regular 9-5 but spend every free moment I have in my studio creating, watching tutorials, practicing, playing with different mediums, etc. I'm 44 years old and while I feel older than dirt some days, I'm not stopping. This is me. This is what I do. This is what I'm supposed to do. It doesn't have to make sense to anyone other than myself.
The video, as well as all the comments from the viewers, are so inspiring! You're never too old to do something that you love. Here's to everyone who has taken the leap ❤️
I’m almost 30 and I worried about being too late to start an art career all the time, I hadn’t study for it, I didn’t have the time etc. Then, one day I was talking with my sister, who’s 8 years younger than me, and she started talking about how she felt it was too late to change majors. And it just dawned on me that the entire thing is ridiculous. We are made to feel this way, like life ends at 30 and we need to be “successful ” or we’ll be failures forever. It’s ridiculous. It’s nice to see people who tell you we’re never too late.
I became a full-time artist at 62. It is never too late.
Allsome!!!!
wonderful!
That's very cool. I'm trying to get into an art career after decades of being away. What did you do to start?
when did you start?
Thank You !
There was a woman on the news a few weeks ago. She'd just done her first art exhibition. She was 98! 🤩
Wow.....😦
Awesome!
Holy cow!
I'm 45 didn't take any art classes after middle school. In July I started doing fluid acrylic painting. I struggled to even think of myself as an artist. I have friends who are educated as Artists and make their living with it. I finally worked up the courage to show a friend, in the art world, some pictures of my paintings. She wants one - I was so excited. But nothing touched me more than when she introduced me as an Artist to one of her clients.🙂
awwwWWW.... cool!
So happy for you!
yes, you have lost your mind, that's a necessary part of being an artist, we lose our mind to make space to create.
Too much bs in this world
Turn us into brainfARTS
I'm just getting back to my art at age 70. I've sold a few pieces through shows. I'm now considering a website, if I can get past the technical challenges.
Good for you Diana!
Diana Burns you can just use wix, square space or Weebly. Those are cookie cutter version for website. Later you can go into harder complex websites but that’s what I would do
Hi Diana! Go for it! There are different types of websites you could do. And they can evolve. Find someone who can show you how this internet stuff works.
The simple site that won't cost a lot is one that just shows your stuff. It is like a brochure. "Here's my stuff!" Trouble with that is, this sort of site sends the message "None of this is for sale." Even if you scream, "This is for sale, here's the price, contact me!!" That simply does not work anymore. On top of the simple 'brochure' site you should have a 'social media base' on Facebook, where you can essentially do your 'blogging' , then maybe Twitter, and then major promotion work on Instagram. (Post constant updates on your work, your finished stuff etc with links pointing back to your website and Facebook. With that presence established, sell your work on Ebay, like Jose Trujillo, who has been very successful. This is the least expensive way. If you can do videos of yourself you can tie into UA-cam. Just like Rafi and Klee, or Robin Seamark (who isn't active right now) or a slew of others who show how they paint. All very cost effective. In a nutshell, this is the new way.
The next level might look the same, but on your site there would be links to "Fulfillment" sites that do all the sales processing for you. You would probably benefit greatly from someone who can explain how this works. Instead of you delivering / shipping artwork physically to a gallery that sells your stuff, you would be posting pictures of your work with links to sites like etsy or IndieMade or ten others that you could partner with and their online software processes the sale and sends your cut to your online bank, and the invoice to you to do the shipping. The last option is to go all in and use a service like Shopify (that you pay for monthly, along with your website hosting costs) that works in the background of your website doing all the e-commerce stuff. There is a lot to learn to use Shopify or others. Or you can get a local developer to build you a site that does the same, probably using woo commerce and the commercial version of wordpress (not the 'free' version), and a credit card processing service, like Stripe. The more complicated it gets the more cost to you, but at the same time, the more information you will have about your clients and the more private your data.
It's all possible! Just start with a Facebook page for your new Art Business, and an Instagram account. Start telling people who you are and show what you do. Try selling a couple of pieces on eBay. Your biggest expense is a good camera.
Cheers and all the best, Sean.
@@seanarthur8392 So nice for you to share this information. I'm 67 and find this very helpful. Thank you.
Ditto. I just turned 70 and on the same path. Good luck Diana.
I turned 70 this February and am determined to live the rest of my life as a working artist. I have listened to the nay sayers all my life and did not pursue my dream. At this stage, I no longer give a rat's a** what anyone thinks. I tell young people to not wait like I have. Go for it.
What would you say to your younger self? Genuinely interested as I’m in my 30s
I so needed to read your comment. I just turned 70 and finally feel like I'm in a good place in life. I am going to start doing artwork today. I just needed to know that I'm not alone with these thoughts lol.
I'm American but live on an island in Sweden 🇸🇪. Good 👍 luck to you and take care 🙂
To quote the great Barbara Sher: "It's Only Too Late If You Don't Start Now." Or, as my grandmother said to my cousin who was lamenting that it was too late to go to med school, because she'd be fifty when she graduated, "God willing, you're going to be fifty anyway. The question is are you going to be a doctor when you get there?" It's never too late to dive into something you were meant to do.
Tell her to Go to med school. My step sister got a medical degree after 40. My sister inlaw's Mother got her medical degree after 50's. Both had family practices and did well in their professions. You got to be willing to give up the comforts of living in the same town, be willing to travel to where ever you can get your degree and interships.
I love how many customers come into theartshop i work at who are getting back into art -or- trying it for the first time in theirs 60s+ Art will always wait for you ♡ it doesn't expire
in my case , I was corporate and stressed to the max , which in turn the stress caused 2 heart attacks , quad bypass surgery and many other health issues , went on disability with no income , nearly lost the house , managed to sell it and moved out into rural Ontario , started my own art gallery representing other artists and never looked back , and now at 60 I can create what I want when I want, living my dream.
Wow... what a cool Phoenix-rising story!
Amazing!
Good for you!
I was told growing up that it was too hard to make a living off art unless you’re a graphic designer (which I had little interest in.) so I went into the Air Force and learned “a real job.” Now I’m a 36 yo SAHM to 3 kids and pursuing that art career. I don’t regret my service or anything like that, but I wish I didn’t stop believing in myself and kept drawing through it all. Despite all of that, this is what I’m doing now, and I’m not going to stop.
Experience (maturity) gives you a story to tell. Art is storytelling. I didn't even start art college until I was 42. I had a blast.
I second that. Having lived brings depth to everything; that is something I couldn't have imagined in my twenties.
When I was 43 I quit work to take art classes...hoping to become even an ENTRY level graphic designer. I loved the classes but was so discouraged because several of the youngsters in class were so much better than I was and I figured that I would never be hired when competing against them . All of the input I received (research, counselors, local artists, etc) was that if I wasn't at the TOP of the artistic skill set, I would never "make it" as an artist. SO, I gave up, cried, and went back to work in a cubicle doing data entry. Here I am, 58, 14 years in my cubicle, imagining how much skill I could have gained, how much art I could have enjoyed making, and how incredibly hire-able I'd be if I hadn't given up. I have HUGE regrets. However, I'm now painting every day with the plan of having an "art career" when I retire in 4 years on my (iffy) social security income of $900/month. IT AINT OVER TILL IT"S OVER!
I'm in the same place as you are now, I probably make less than you and I turn 60 in two weeks. I have about 5 years before the gov. pension kicks in. Good luck to you in your efforts.
@@calonstanni all the luck to you!
I'm 28, and just started taking some fine arts classes in February of this year, for the first time since High School. A lot of the kids in the program are 4-10 years younger than me, and are all MUCH more talented at it than I am!! But I have to remind myself that we're all on our own paths, and that my artistic satisfaction should never be based on another person's success.
You guys are speaking directly to me. I started my art as a business at age 49. What was I thinking 🤦🏻♀️
So cool. I'm trying to an career going after decades away from art. Trying to get over the fear is the hardest thing. What did you differently?
I still keep my day job so I don’t stress about bills and benefits. My art is just going to have to be my side hustle. Some people hold a part time job as well as their “day job”. Mine is just art.
Awesome! 👍
When I started my art career at the age of 53 I had a feeling of panic that I'm running out of time, how do I get to where I need to be before I retire. And then the penny dropped!! Artists don't retire :) If I live to 102 like my Nan I have another 49 years of being an Artist:) BUT if I only have a day left, I died as an Artist and that will be a lasting epitaph of who I truly am. Success and happiness fellow artists no matter what your age :) xxx
Beautiful perspective!
Age is more like an excuse to quit than actual block.
There is definitely a cultural bias in this country when it comes to education, career, career changes, etc. Although age is only a number, maturity plays a monumental role in when/how/why we choose to do something and then choose to stick with it. My personal opinion is that if we focus time during development (parenting, school, etc) on the clearly obvious passions and personal gifts we all possess, we would foster change in society. I, too, am one of those who knew from very young (early teens) that I wanted to be an artist, gosh dang it if I wasn't conditioned otherwise. Learning and practicing skills through the years definitely helped but the joy you get from deciding to follow that passion is AHHHMAZING!!! Thanks to you both for your videos to inspire and motivate my art career, it helps to know others have forged a path ❤️😊
I will be 66 in 10 days. 3.5 years ago I signed up for a college fused glass class because I knew the instructor (glass blower/fused glass artist). Many colleges offer free tuition to seniors(over 62).
All my life I was told that the many art classes I took were a waste of time. That I needed to do something responsible. 🤣 I finally took the glass class at 62(my instructor tried to get me to get into it 25 years ago and I didn't listen). I love it. For the last 3 summers I have been selling at artisan markets and craft shows here in northern Michigan. I'm not going to lie, it's hard. I do shows or events at least once a week from late June until the end of October, and also a half dozen events in November and December. I pay the son of a fellow artist (petoskey stone jewelry, she's 64) to help me set up when we do shows together. But I do many alone.
But I tell people is that Colonel Sanders started KFC at 65 and my mother lived until she was 4 months shy of 100. So, I figure I have at least 30 to 40 years yet. 😁
What Klee said, about how when she was younger she wasn't actually ready for the serious crazy hyper focus drive you need to have to push an art career forward.
I wasn't ready either, until I was. And that's probably how it is for so many people. You're not actually capable, until one day you look up from your desk and realise that you're actually in the middle of doing it.
If I could go back to 1999 or 2007 with the knowledge I know now, I would probably be a millionaire in a year.
@@africaart ohhhhh yeeeaaah. Totally!
Diana Parkhouse Yes, this. For me, it was a slow and steady, consistent buildup. I realized at one point that unlike the romantic relationships that never quite worked out as I wished them to, art was the big commitment for me and clearly I was, am, in it for life.
I appreciate this video so much! I spent 20 years of my life taking care of my family and now I'm finally ready to do things for myself. I've been putzing around with art for ten years but just now am finally finding my voice and getting ready to seriously pursue art. I'm 46 and have read a lot of books and articles about "late bloomers" where they define "late" as age 30. Ridiculous. Grandma Moses didn't really start painting until her late 70s. It's never too late and it's refreshing to have validation of that. Thanks for all you do, Rafi and Klee! You are huge inspirations to me!
Kaci Koltz hi Kaci. Sounds like what I went through. 🙂. Can you tell me the titles and authors of the books? Thank you. Stay strong!
@@justathought7221 The book I'm reading now is called Late Bloomers by Rich Karlgaard. :)
Kaci Koltz thank you!! 😎
Why people mention this example with Grandma Moses again and again? She was a primitivist, it is not the same as being a pro artist and start a career in late age now, in our world full of beginner artists! Mentioning this example sounds like a joke
I'm so glad you made this video. I've been a wildlife biologist for 26 years now (I am 53) and have no intention of not being a biologist. That being said, I've recently, in the last 2 years, discovered that I also like to paint wildlife and have become fairly good at it (I have absolutely no background in art other than an Art Appreciation class in college). I am trying to start a little side business with it. I've done a few art shows (I felt like a fish out of water), and have sold a few pieces. I've even recently created a website, facebook page, and also have my own business cards. I'm not sure where this is going, but it will be fun to find out. At the very least, I will have something to do when I retire.
Also, Rafi, I have more wizard hairs than you.
Where can I see your work? I am also a Naturalist/Wildlife Artist
That is amazing. Good for you. Ehat is your website?
I just turned 60 and look up to you. I love wildlife!
I totally agree with Klee on this. When I was eighteen, I didn't even know who I was and was still trying to figure out how I fit into the world (heck, I'm still figuring that out), so starting an art career or any career for that matter was beyond me. With age comes perspective and experience and understanding, all of which feed into art and how we express ourselves. As we age, I think we have less tolerance for the crap in our lives that is draining and pointless and makes us miserable, so to me it makes perfect sense that as we age our creative endeavors would become more of a priority. I create because it makes me happy and gives me purpose and age really has nothing to do with it.
At almost 66 I started playing with watercolors, and watching UA-cam. I enjoy painting for myself and have even sold a few things.
I am older now and it's perfect. Without the obligations and pressures of a younger age, I have more time, less distractions, and the ability to risk. This past April (2022) I started a new business around art bags that mixes several of my loves... writing, designing, teaching, and creating one-of-a-kind bags... and in June, I turned sixty. It provides a focus, fun, purpose, and meaning to this stage of life. SO GLAD to have made the decision. I've failed many times in the past. This feels different.
I worry about stock piling paintings for no one and saw an article on NPR about a man who died and had over 400 paintings in storage. None of the galleries were interested in him when he was alive. The family tried to get them interested in his paintings when he died. Out of frustration and a sincere drive to show off the collection, the family opened his house like a gallery and people lined up around the block to see his art. Now the galleries are interested. Imagine if he had used UA-cam or Instagram at 80 years old. Seems like a lot of artists died poor only for some gallery/collector to get interested later. The irony and injustice of the real world. I was thinking about pitching a tent in the back yard and seeing what happened. I thought maybe I could do a garage-art sale and exhibit. Any thoughts?
I am loving that Crow Painting in the background, it's looking amazing
This reminds me of a conversation I had with my grandfather as a child. I said "I can't do that now, I'm too old" I didn't want my grandfather to feel bad so I told him "You're not as old as dead!" He laughed at that. But it's something I think back on now, and I have to tell myself, I'm not as old as dead.
This was super excellent...I'm in my FIFTIES and just took up oil painting. I was so convinced that I would suck because my sister is a wonderful painter (even though she gave it up for the corporate life)....triple thumbs up to everything you said about rewriting the narrative in your head.
Me too and I'm experiencing all that oil painting has to offer.
If Grandma Moses can start in her late 70s, ANYBODY can start an art career! She painted until her death at 101. I will create until I cross over as well...
I lived the regular job while doing art life, and it did not work out for me because I hated all my jobs. I think there's a lot to be said for that way of living because it does give you financial stability, and it takes the pressure off needing to sell your artwork to keep a roof over your head. But it is absolutely vital that you like the job you have and that the job respects the fact that you are a human being with a life that the job is supposed to be supporting, not one that expects you to exist solely for the job. And sadly, I think jobs that are good for humans are becoming pretty hard to find. The modern job market - I don't know, I think it's getting hard to be a healthy, happy human being with a job. My last job started out good for me as an artist, but after a change in management, it became a devourer of lives - more and more demanding and tiring, etc. And it wasn't the first job I've seen that happen to. I'm 57 now, and I'd been planning to retire from my last job and do my art for the rest of my life, but things were getting so bad on the job that I up and quit, and decided to start my art retirement career ten years early. Who knows how it will work out, but I'm a lot happier now than I was before.
I did the job + art thing on and off for a few decades, and broke it up a bit with alternating job and art - earning as much as possible as fast as possible, then quitting and living on the savings for as long as possible. That was doable if I was frugal enough - which I am. Frugality is a sport with me. But again, I feel like the job market isn't supporting that kind of flexibility anymore.
However you make it work, just be sure that the thing you spend most of your waking hours doing is good for your physical and emotional wellbeing.
Great inspiration today.
Story, I am 45, moved to Austin last year. And yes I am constantly working towards finding the connections for an art career while working full time as an accountant.
I am happy I moved to Austin last year. Now I have a Sunday figure drawing group. I also draw every day.
Still searching for the art that is mine to make while studying as much as possible.
When I retired from teaching in the public school system , I got a shirt that stated “I have a retirement plan, I plan to paint,” I think that says it all.😃
I'm glad you guys are back, I need that inspiration. Right now I'm having a hard time and I'm homeless living in Airbnbs and my car. It's not really all that badd except for the fact that he don't have a space to create art....😪
I’m 60 (almost 61) and really just seriously getting started. That certainly wasn’t the plan! My first husband always insisted I “get a real job”. Art was hard to fit in among full time banking job, motherhood, cook, housekeeper, laundry maid, gardener...you get the picture. My feeling self-worth was way too low to insist on my dream. So I didn’t. I became chronically ill with 4 tickborne diseases and ended up in the ER. Life changed. Felt worthless. Left a few years ago. New life now. I’m getting a few commissions for pet portraits and hopefully will be able to do paintings I’m inspired to do and sell them! I’m looking forward to the future! Getting older but braver!
I don’t think it’s ever too late!
Good for you! Me too. Will be 61 soon. Have my 1st art show coming up in 5 months.
Best of luck to you!
I have always been artistic but it was only When last year at the age of 43 that I decided to take the plunge and start my art Career, I agree with Klee I don't think I was really ready when I was younger. Your never too old the most inspiring thing was a friend of mine she was 84 yrs old when she started selling her art!!! You are never too old!!!
I'm also the person who was always about "Day Job Comes FIRST" no matter how inconvenient it was to me, no matter how little any of my employers would have sacrificed in return (read: nothing). I got started a decade ago, but because it always came last, I never got off the ground because I would miss every event and not be motivated enough to do uncomfortable things.
Now, art is all I do. It's still bringing in less than $100/month, and I often think it would be SO MUCH EASIER to just get a retail job to alleviate some of this guilt, but I know that if I do, I'll go back to missing every opportunity (because of scheduling) and never asking for time off (because I never could). Also, nobody seems to hire truly part time anymore, which is super weird (Vancouver).
It's like you read my mind... I SOOOO needed to hear a voice of reason/positivity to drown out the voices of haters and kill-joys in my head!! I'm Klee's age, give or take a couple of years, and because of your videos and book I finally have the push and support I need to be the artist I always wanted to be but kept putting off. I lost a lot opportunities in my life by listening to the negative advice of significant others. Recently, when I decided to go back to art school to finish my illustration degree (which I did), my father told me that "Illustration was for young people" WTF!! Art careers have expiration dates!!! Unfortunately I used my membership of the Gen X club as an excuse for giving up and chickening out from pursuing a life I want to live. Luckily, I found your videos at a time when the desire to create art /art career has overpowered the soul-sucking-force of living a life of doing what is practical but hating-ever-minute. Thank you guys for putting out such truthful and truly inspirational videos. They are a great kick in the behind when I need it most!!
PS LOVE YOUR BOOK!!!
For me, when we got married and quickly had four kids my artist and writing side kind of got pushed to the back because I didn’t know how to balance being a wife, and mom, keep up the house , balance a budget and doing everything I needed to do plus trying to be creative. Now that our kids are grown, my husband and I are both trying harder to be creative.I just had a two-year stint babysitting our now almost three year granddaughter , Which I loved doing very much, but I’m finally able to retire from that job as our daughter is starting next week for maternity leave . She will not be returning to work till both the kids start school at five. She knows I’m done babysitting. I helped her with this one but it’s my turn to get creative. I did start a UA-cam channel doing some beadwork and crafting but it’s turned more into a look what I picked up and I hate use the word “haul “videos but it is on jewelry and craft supplies and stuff. That’s all I could balance with watching a baby , than toddler for the last two years.
Now I’m hoping to find out what it is I really want to do, jewelry, writing, painting, yes to all but I got to figure out which one is my most passionate one so I don’t spread myself too thin and do nothing! I love watching your videos because I love seeing your creative space and how you guys have made this your life. I have an extremely supportive husband who encourages me to do whatever I want to do I just got to figure out what it is , and going on 60 this year it’s a lot harder to figure it out. But starting next Tomorrow at 4 pm , no more babysitting!
😁The fun begins!
This video has been online for about an hour, and look at all those in-depth comments already! Looks like we can all relate. 😊 Keep on creating, guys! 💐
I LOVE THIS SO MUCH!! I'm so glad that dude asked that question, because the answer you two had was exactly what I needed to hear. I kind of abandoned my art life in my early 20s, with the occasional dabbling here and there. But at 38, it's still what I love and what I want my life to be about. So I'm trying to make the time and push myself to create because in my heart it's all I want. And I too get distracted with the "is it too late?" question. I'm trying to push that question out of my mind because intuitively and intellectually, I know it's not a question I need to keep asking. The answer is NO. But society does a number on us and makes us think we need to have everything figured out by the time we're 25 or else your ship has sailed. How ridiculous is that! So I'm doing away with that kind of thinking because it's counter-productive and ultimately it's false logic. It really really is!
Thank you for re-enforcing that!!
5:30 the words we ALL need to hear.
I fully agree. Derek, I have tried the art career bit since I was young. Due to health and surgeries as a child and young adult that was extremely difficult. It's hard having an art career when always in a hospital getting cut on. Social media in some of my lifetime wasn't a thing. I was 15 when the internet became available for the general population. Even after it was available we were stuck to dial up and basic email. All the platforms there are now didn't exist. Putting yourself out there as an artist was a bit harder and even harder when you couldn't walk. I had various different opportunities that basically went down the drain because I was stuck in a chair or on crutches or because I dont like limitations I crawled everywhere. Fast forward to 2015. two major surgeries and still trying to get an art career going. I also began to think I was to old to try. Thing is, I breathe, sleep, eat, all things art. It's as important to me as breathing. Do your natural instincts tell you to stop breathing because it's hard or because your older? No! Absolutely not. My last surgery was Aug. 28th, 2015. It took til 2017 to heal. I used my art as my therapy. I've had other artist tell me to give up. "To old", "The younger generation of artists have a massive one up on you. Save yourself the heartache." So, October 12, 2019 I opened my art business. I'm 39. I'll be 40 in July. No matter how hard it seems, No matter who says what, If you're passionate about it you aren't to old. Sometimes, we have to lose who we are to find who we are but once you find you, don't let go. It's only too late when you take your last breath. I don't know you Derek but you have my support. Chase that dream, keep the good advice, ignore the bad and find what works for you. It isn't easy by any means but wow is it worth it! Stay amaze balls!
Until 5 years ago I had never thought that I could paint or make art. I took a free 1-hour watercolor class and fell in love. Sometimes things were good enough to sell some cards and prints but something was missing. Last July, after a difficult hospitalization, I came home with a strong need to paint. I've been painting every day since then. I also discovered art tutorials on UA-cam which is how I found your videos. I paint every day now. The walls in my small apartment are covered with my framed work and I love every piece. That's not to say that any of it is marketable. I have only the kind words of family and friends who are very supportive. Of all the video tutorials that I watch (I think of them as helpful suggestions) the two of you have inspired and encouraged me to do my own thing and to paint from my heart. I am 76 years old and have leukemia. I have my family, my dog and my painting and life is good. Thank you for being part of my art.
"If you love to create, then you are an artist, so create." I SO needed to hear that very line. Had a long career as a teacher and have gotten back to my art, especially teaching myself how to watercolor. I struggle with actually calling myself an "artist" now. Questioned just because I can draw and paint, does that make me an artist? Perhaps yes. Thank you so much Rafi and Klee for all of your videos which have inspired me immensely.
Hi Rafi and Klee, Once again another great video and insight into the creative life. It really hit home when Klee mentioned the feeling that “that ship had sailed.” I got back to art after 27 years away. I started painting again at 56. Many days I ask myself if I can ever catch up to place that I would have been had I never stopped painting. I lament that I let the stuff of life get in the way of pursuing the thing that I really love, even though I forgot it for many years. Thank you for the encouragement in your videos which really is your central theme! I will try not to let my past regrets get in the way of moving forward with creating regardless of my age.
No, It's not too late. After almost sixty years of taking care of everyone else and doing what I was "supposed" to do I have decided that It is my turn. I have always been very creative and sold pieces here and there over the years . I have always known that I am an Artist. I can't not make Art. I need it like I need air to breathe. So I have decided that I am going to become an Artrepreneur and start my own business - "Studio Steff" is in the works! I'm just learning how to get myself out there & engage with social media and it's scary, the technology is still kinda baffling, but I'm determined. I have heard that "older" people who start businesses are more successful.
Rafi & Klee, you have been great encouragement and inspiration and company while I'm working. Thank you! Loving your book (I made it all the way to page 8 before I cried) Show up. Do the work. Engage. Be real. Rinse & repeat. LOL Just delivered a commission today and got another one! Yay! Small things but it will get there!
I’ve been an emergency nurse for 30 yrs, and im about to be a full time artist and part-time nurse ( I’m lucky to have 2 career passions) so at the age of 50, I’m transitioning into full time art.... your goals change as you get older, age doesn’t define you, what makes you feel alive, happy and fulfilled does.
This is so much like my own story. I drew a lot as a kid and into my early 20's. I always imagined I'd be a comic book artist. But as I approached college, I took up graphic design as my field of study, what seemed like the more practical and "adult" means to make use of my talents in an employable fashion. And while I loved learning and developing digital skills (Photoshop and the rest of the Adobe Suite...) it directed me towards mainly commercial design for page layouts and logos, and occasionally the more artistic design of complex photo montages.
I would still draw my pleasure material in my free time... at least in the beginning. But more and more demands on my time in and out of work, just being tired on some days, wanting my free time to be more for entertainment, I was illustrating less and less. I'd still do some fun graphic projects, "photo art" of things I like, all made with a mouse mind you, but before I knew it.... some 20+ years had passed since I last picked up a pencil.
There was always the desire to get back into illustration, not only that but to take my acquired Photoshop skills to "reboot" my drawing into the digital realm. But lots more of the "I'll get to it later" excuses while life threw me for one loop after another. When times got tough and I had to chase any job I could get, art became the furthest thing from my mind. Part of that 20 year "detour" basically.
But I get get another steady graphic design job 3 years ago and just last year, just before I turned 48, I finally resolved myself to pursue the digital art dream. No more excuses, I bought my Wacom tablet and committed to the path. Not only to shake off the rust of my old hand drawing skills, but also adapting it to a stylus and creating original illustrations (not just photo manipulations) on my computer. Funny thing about the timing, it was just around the time Inktober is soon approaching, and while I wanted to participate, I didn't think 3 months practice was enough time to start showing things off online. I would have loved to have had 9 months or more to smooth off my many many rough edges.
But then realized art is an *ongoing* journey, and one's style is always evolving. It never ends. So I realized now was as good a time as any. I just took the plunge. It also helped joining a Facebook group, which I did just to better understand the "rules" and structure of Inktober in general. But among all those other creatives, some experienced professionals and many others just starting out, with a few starting *again* like myself... I found a wellspring of motivation, and contrary to my earlier reservations about joining while I was still wet behind the ears, turns out that participation was like a vitamin boost to my digital drawing development.
So now, 8 months into it I can honestly say I'm not sure where it's going as far as a "career" goes. I'm still holding my day job, which is still creative in its own fashion. I continue to practice, share online, and broaden my creative horizons. Guess what I'm saying is I'm enjoying the journey of self discovery and seeing where it leads me.
I'm 26, I've been writing for fun for three years... and even when I was 23 I thought I'm too old to start... and only now I decided that I'm gonna commit.
I love how real you two are. You aren't trying to be something you aren't and I really enjoy these videos
Ya it’s been a real struggle first two years so far. Last week I got sued by AP so there’s that as well. I have major art markets booked this summer but still have doubts. I keep thinking about making corporate money but was so sick of those types of ppl and work politics. Trying to keep my head up and have small side hussle to pay something. Arg!
Remember Grandma Moses! If you're living the "artist's life", when do you actually make art?
I have made art my whole life and was always making things. People always wanted to buy them, so I sold them. Some I gave away as gifts. I had a gallery keep asking me for stuff but I was lax about it because I had no idea what it meant. Now I regret not seeing the opportunities I had. But I just wasn't taking art seriously as a career due to all the Messages, I guess. Now that I decided to focus on it, I find I'm not as confident about it as I used to be. It's weird but theres something about Now I have to make a go of it, that makes me hard on myself.
Thank you, again, Rafi & Klee! I can’t hear this enough. Sometimes when I’m thinking about this very thing I get quite stressed out and even scared. But then when I’m sitting in traffic on my way to or from the job I just can’t stand, even though it does pay the bills, it just slams home! I want to paint and create more than almost anything else. Want you guys to know I have been stepping it up. It’s still scary. Thank you!❤️💎
I was an RN and took care of family etc but loved art. Tried many times over the past 15 years to get my art biz going but never totally got devoted to it. I am now retired and 62. In summer of 2018 went on a dream trip to east coast and was in Gloucester, MA and Maine. Fell in love with the scenery, lighthouses etc. Came home and started watercolor painting and out of the blue I was painting like I never did before. It was exciting. Was using dollar store paints and cheap paper. Got Holbein watercolors and arches handmade paper and what a difference. Did social media and then last year did 4 art festivals. Got accepted into all of them and was exciting. Sold a lot of paintings and prints. One art show I have always wanted to be in since I was a child was the Allentown Art Festival in buffalo, ny. Very hard juried show to get into. I tried along time ago and was denied. I was accepted for this years show and it has over 300,000 attendees amongst other shows I will do this summer. Very excited and having a ball doing it. Thanks for this video. Hit home for me and I love watching you both.
Y'all are making my day. I have 3 videos to watch from you two and its awesome. I just recently caught up on all your videos and was oddly unhappy that I wouldn't be hearing your inspiration for a while. Thanks for being encouraging and uplifting to those you don't know.
Wow.. The timing of things never ceases to amaze me anymore! I can resonate with this 100%. I have struggled with the story that “It’s too late to pursue an art career now” but I remind myself that I took the path I needed to take at the time. I recently re-connected with my art and made the decision to pursue a creative career. It’s been a challenge because my entire resume is solely in sales/ admin work. What happened though is that my job was completely depleting my energy because it was without a doubt the most toxic environment Ive ever worked in. Like you, I do wish I was able to separate myself from my work environment in order to focus on my art while having a source of income. Unfortunately (or fortunately.. we’ll see) the anxiety I felt showing up everyday far outweighed the fear of being unemployed. My last day at my corporate job is tomorrow and I don’t have a Plan B. While I know I’m not in a position to start a life as a art full-time artist I can finally say that I know what I want and thats a career in a creative field. So grateful to have come across your videos during my transition! 🙏🏽❤️👩🏽🎨
I've been doing art all my life as a hobby with occasional sales while I was an elementary teacher. Now I am retiring and will spend my days doing art to supplement my small pension. I'm 65.
snap !
World need more of this. World needs more of you.
Great stuff as usual. We'll have to start calling you Rafi the gray! 😊 It's never too late to pursue your passions! Colonel Sanders started KFC when he was well into his 60s! Grandma Moses didn't start painting until her late 70s! Bottom line, when the urge hits you--go for it! We can be awesome and do awesome things at any age! 😊
Love love love this!!!! I too started late. In fact it's been 20 months now since I began to put in a fulltime effort into my creative work, woo hoo!!!! I listened to well meaning family and friends when I was a teen and didn't go in the direction of my heart. Many twists and turns later I'm right where I'm supposed to be and loving every challenge. Thank you for the reminder Rafi and Klee!!! 👍👍☺🥳
I am 60 and am transitioning to full-time artist. One thing that changed my whole perspective is reading 'Atomic Habits' by James Clear.
I used to wait for a day when i would have a chunck of time to paint, but after reading his book (you can find a great summary of it on UA-cam) i realized that i had to make a daily habit. Even if just 2 min/day. But dont miss a day.
Also. The idea to identify as an artist rather that just have a goal. If you say "i am a wildlife artist" then you will behave as one.
It removes the need for so much self discipline, and instread suggests puttingt systems in place. I have become so productive.
Thanks fo your video.
Good luck to everybody out there getting inspired!
😊❤We are doing this!
My youngest child is graduating this May. I got to thinking about how I spent so much time saying I didn't have time for art because I was taking care of the family. After watching Rafi and Klee I realized I was using that as an excuse to not take the chance and try. I was letting my fear and excuse of not having time get in the way of what I really wanted to do. So now at 52 I am taking some risks and showing my art work on line and offering it in a local store. Still scary, and I have so much to learn yet, but I am having fun.
I did some art as a youth, for myself, no art classes. Was encouraged to focus on science, which was ok, just was not good at it. In college got a BA, and certificates in several things, not my thing. Worked at several printing jobs, and now am middle age and learning art. Have taken courses from local artists in oils and watercolor, and teaching myself how to do art. Reading books, and just painting, doing more abstract art at the moment. Never to late or early, or what ever to do art, just do it. Working at finding my artistic voice. Thanks Rafi for sharing, this has really helped me, keep it up.
Nothing has meaning except for the meaning that we give it! I think that we put the limitations on ourselves. I love you guys! Everything you has said, resonated with me. Thank you! It’s never too late to do What you love.
I’m now 50 and I only got back into art about 5 years ago after stopping creating art when I was 19. I don’t consider myself as having a career in art and although I would say I’m still finding my feet in many respects, I still consider myself successful because I am creating and growing as an artist all the time. So I would definitely encourage anyone to ignore their age and start creating now.
Hi Rafi im 34 and last March i decided to follow my art career, but hadnt taken it that serious till December. its not easy and still struggle with maintaining that motivation but i came across your channel a couple of months ago and watching you guys has helped so much... Thank you
Thanks for this video! I'm just discovering and making art at 57! My size job (previous career) is a therapist! I can't stop making art!
You Rock @TamaraRidgeTraumaEraseMethod!
Im trying to do it know, after serving in the military for so many years. I really can’t see myself doing anything else. I have drawn from the time I could hold a pencil. I love to paint and draw sculpt. The hard part for me really is dealing with the injuries, I have which really zap my motivation. But I’m got giving up. It’s all I ever really wanted to do.
Never too late! I feel like I had to get a bit older, more settled in my life for me to take my art journey seriously. I am 44 and i've just started working full time after a long hiatus.
THANK YOU!!!!I need to hear this. i am 60 years old i wanna paint, i wanna create jewelry, and other stuff and i keep stay it may be too late. so thank you !!
Love this guys! I just started my UA-cam channel (I'm 45), and am currently working on my art career while working full time in the corporate world ... people like you guys inspire me!!!
I became bedridden and I finally stared painting and now is the thing that helps me with pain management 🎨🙏🏼
Thank you for the uplifting and supportive video as I dip my toes into art in my mid-50's (after not being "artistic" for about 30 years). It helps keep the anxiety about change a bit more at bay.
I'm 27 years old now and I've recently embarked on the journey of becoming a DJ and music 😮producer.
I've been a competitive athlete since I left school and I no longer find solace in doing that anymore.
This video has helped me be brave enough to leave what I no longer resonate with behind and go forth into this new chapter of my life in art with an unbridled commitment and passion.
Thank you guys!
My pop started painting at 70 and I have a show with him next month. I think his stuff is better than mine. Great to have a show with my father.
I think you're definitely right - never too old. The challenges may be different for someone further along in life - debt, obligations, time constraints, children etc... But. An older person also has many advantages - life experience, contacts and relationships, a probable lack of naivete, an understanding that when something goes wrong it's not the end of the world... Its all about working to your strengths.
I'm 46 years old and one year into trying to make a career out of my photography. I know it will be a long haul because I face many of the challenges I listed above. But I also know I will be successful, on my own terms, because I also have the advantages I listed above. Something else we learn over time - patience, hard work and a willingness to risk failure really does pay off.
I started painting at 46. I left my normal career due to injury at around 49. At now 54 (definitely not a spring chicken) i make a living with art. And have a fair following here on youtube as well :) Even with an autoimmune disease and spine issues, so definitely doable :)
Thanks, I needed that! Age 65...painting to sell, probably not on Etsy!
Whew! I was worried I was starting too late. Great video! I am coming up on 55 fast and have decided to get serious with my art career. My plan is to find my peoples and build a following so when I retire in the next 10 years I can step right in and be a full-time artist! How's that for a plan?
I started painting at age 40. It is never too late!
I’m 43 and just a couple years ago I got started in stained glass. I also really like to make stained glass mosaics for my garden. I’ve had others start to ask if my pieces are for sale or if I do custom work. I would love to, but I struggle to put myself out there like that. I have been retired from the military for about 11 years now. I got I’ll after returning from Afghanistan and I live with 24/7 migraines. Some days they are lower and others they are quite severe, but always there. So my projects can take quite a while, a good month for a mosaic garden brick for example. Hardly the pace to be productive or make any kind of living. It would take me a good minute to even make items for a farmers market or the like.
I thought maybe I could take one one project every two months so I don’t get overwhelmed (we also have 4 kids, 2 of which have special needs). I’m just so scared of failing or falling behind and the stress is no good for my head.
Figure out a way to do it where stress in not a factor, less is more.
Hey guys! I'm glad I found your channel. Although I am a fairly established Nature Artist, I took a break during Covid lockdowns when everything around my business model fell apart. Now, at 48, I am having a frustrating time getting back on track. Everything is costing more and it's weighing down my motivation. I feel like I am going to need to look at this like a fresh start.
I am turning 49 next month and only now getting my art carrier started. I have always loved being creative but never thought I was good enough. We have an artist’s award/ exhibition coming up. Apparently no one gets in first go. I decided to put my application in anyway, did this on a Friday and on the Monday I received an email that I have been accepted. To top things off I am currently working on a commission piece that I had received just the other day that I am almost finished with. Yes I am kicking myself for not starting a lot earlier but the way I look at it is that I was simply not ready.
Age is simply just a number and you are never too old to start.
Oh yeah! That IS a good question. =)
Great answer. too. =)
Wow! This is very inspiring. I'm an art teacher and really want to be making art full time. It's hard to think about not having security and routine of going to work. Teaching takes so much energy - mentally, emotionally and physically. When I do have breaks I'm exhausted. It has felt at 52 that it's too late. I'm 'planning' on trying to focus my summer break on making art but it feels scary.
Read Atomic Habits by James Clear. Helped me out of a similar rut.
Hi Rafi and Clee,
I have always followed my own path. I think I'm pretty sure I have wings on the seat of my pants. Anyway, I have had a few runs at growing an art career. All have had some success. Some times they were adjunct to another job. Sometimes there were stand alone businesses. Determination and perseverance are key characteristics to develop.
My biggest issue is that I have a very eclectic artistic drive and like using soooooo very many different mediums in creating art. I am 56 and gearing up to make art my retirement income.
So.... damn the torpedoes, full steam ahead!!
Thanks for all your videos. They are very encouraging.
I'm going to be teaching drawing march 18 and 25 at 123 CO-OP. In Marshall and painting. Too in march excited about it but terified also. I am older person AARGH!!
This was nice to hear. I'm not even thirty and often get into this mind set of wishing I had started "taking art seriously" or "found 'my thing'" at age six. I wish I were exaggerating.
I turned 67 last week. I have been working towards taking my art to market over the last year. I have been a creative from childhood but was never encouraged to become a creative/artist because they don't make enough to live on. Except I was encouraged to create crafts for self and others - for no pay. :)
Love the encouragement. I am just starting my art career. I have finally gotten a show at a local restaurant that is known for shows. My show will be up in May and June! I would never have had the balls to even put my work out there without your encouragement. Thank you. I recently just stopped painting for about three months...no idea why, it just happened. I guess life got in the way. Anyway, I got back in my studio three days ago, and I am alive again. I feel so much better just getting some paint in and on my hands. Again, thank both of you for your spirit and your drive to help us get our work appreciated by someone other than family.
Hi Rafi and Klee. I learned a lesson. If you post on Instagram be sure and read policies, rules and regulations. I liked too many in a few minutes and now I am blocked. I felt awful that they think I am spamming or what ever else. I have to depend on grandchildren to help me with this kind of stuff. So glad to see you again.
Thanks for putting this up! I’m sure I’m not the only one still coming across it still, and it really helps to hear stories from others who have left corporate careers for art which I’m contemplating after a decade+ also!
Yeah, thanks Derrick right it really was & still is a great question. I really hope you've begun to pursue your passions art wise. Cuz I really need to get started now myself!!!
I'm 47 & have spent most of my adult years within health care as a direct caregiver. I'd say I'm descent at it...yet it's just become way too taxing. I've witnessed too much tragedy & so most of my art work, music, stories I've wrote have gotten so dark. Still, I need to fuel this fire & get through the darkness as well as stagnant bullshit so I can truly get to what's real & hope to inspire myself more plus others. I need to really surround myself with other soulful artists as mentors & get immersed.
Thanks for making this video! It is heartening. I recently discovered my love for art and Im in my 40s and feel like I missed out in my 20s and 30s. I figure it is better to start later than never and have now been trying to learn all I can to catch up, so to speak.
Wonderful!
One of the roadblocks I’ve hit recently (I’m 50 years old) was that I started to feel like I was making a fool of myself to friends, family and coworkers. It was tough. Everyone saw my work on social media and I started feeling like people were kind of snickering at me. Like I was off on some foolish endeavour. Sadly, I let that thinking get into my head and haven’t created anything in some time. It’s a very hard discouragement to get over when it’s coupled with 50 years of acquired cynicism.
Thank you so muh for addressing this! I've been creative in various forms most of my life but just started drawing/painting a little over a year ago. I still have SO MUCH to learn and a lot of practice ahead of me, but I know that art is what I'm supposed to do. Not to be overly dramatic, but finding this form of creativity has been like finding a lost part of my soul. I still work a regular 9-5 but spend every free moment I have in my studio creating, watching tutorials, practicing, playing with different mediums, etc. I'm 44 years old and while I feel older than dirt some days, I'm not stopping. This is me. This is what I do. This is what I'm supposed to do. It doesn't have to make sense to anyone other than myself.
The video, as well as all the comments from the viewers, are so inspiring! You're never too old to do something that you love. Here's to everyone who has taken the leap ❤️
I totally agree with you. I will be retiring from the government in 2 years and will start working on my art.
I’m almost 30 and I worried about being too late to start an art career all the time, I hadn’t study for it, I didn’t have the time etc. Then, one day I was talking with my sister, who’s 8 years younger than me, and she started talking about how she felt it was too late to change majors. And it just dawned on me that the entire thing is ridiculous. We are made to feel this way, like life ends at 30 and we need to be “successful ” or we’ll be failures forever. It’s ridiculous.
It’s nice to see people who tell you we’re never too late.
Thank you so much for this, I mean it, It really hit home, I needed to hear this and I'm not going to stop