Introduction
I am thrilled to bring you this interview with MH, a cherished member of our Makings and Musings community. MH, at 66, began her art journey only in her 50s, making her a wonderful example of how it's never too late to pick up a paintbrush or sketchbook. With her warm spirit and vivid perspective, she reminds us of the joy and confidence that creativity can bring, especially later in life. I hope her story encourages others to embrace their artistic sides and explore what art can bring to their lives.
Starting Art in Your 50s and Beyond: An Inspiring Interview with MH from NYC
Q: MH, thank you for chatting with me today! To start, could you share a little about how you first became interested in art?
MH: It’s lovely to be here, Irene! My first steps into art weren’t planned, actually. I spent most of my life in New York City, working in a busy office, raising my two kids, and didn’t think much about art—aside from visiting the odd museum or admiring local artists around the city. But then, as the kids grew up and life slowed down, I found myself looking for something meaningful to fill my time.
One day, I was scrolling through photos online, and I saw this image of a sketchbook filled with quick sketches and little bursts of color. Something about that image grabbed me, and I thought, “Well, maybe I could try something like that.” A few days later, I went to an art supply store, bought a sketchbook and a basic set of pencils, and that’s where it all began. It was a revelation.
Q: That sounds like such a natural beginning! Were there any challenges starting out? How did you keep going?
MH: Oh, yes! For one, I’d never drawn in my life. So my early sketches were…let’s say, a little rough! I remember looking at my work and feeling frustrated, thinking I’d never get the hang of it. But the joy of it, of creating something with my hands, was too strong to ignore. So I’d just keep sketching, and I realised that every page taught me something new.
Another challenge was actually making time for it. Even though I was semi-retired, I had responsibilities that would sneak up on me, and sometimes I’d go weeks without touching my sketchbook. But the beauty of starting something later in life is that you don’t feel pressured to “achieve” in the same way. I learned to be patient with myself, to trust the process, and just let myself enjoy each moment with art.
Q: And now, years on, you’ve moved from sketching to painting! What inspired you to make that shift?
MH: Honestly, it was all these wonderful artists I met online—including you, Irene! Seeing what other people were doing inspired me to experiment more. When I saw people adding watercolour washes or painting with beautiful, rich colours, I felt drawn to explore that. I bought a little watercolour set and started playing with color over my sketches. Then I moved to acrylics, which felt very bold for me.
Painting gave me a different freedom from sketching, where I’d been more focused on getting things right, you know? But with painting, I could play with color and expression, go a bit wild if I wanted to!
Q: How does creating art impact your everyday life? Has it changed how you see things?
MH: Art has been transformative, without a doubt. Now, I see beauty in the most ordinary things—like the shadows on the street or the light hitting a row of buildings. I find myself noticing details I used to overlook, like the color of the sky at different times of the day or the way people move. It’s as though my senses have been heightened through creating.
And it’s brought a wonderful calm into my life. I have a routine now where I’ll start my day with a cup of coffee and a sketch or paint in the evenings. It gives me a sense of peace, even on busy days. Art has become my way of unwinding, processing emotions, and sometimes just letting my mind wander. It’s like a personal meditation.
Q: That’s beautiful! You mentioned earlier about meeting other artists online. How has being part of an online art community influenced you?
MH: It’s been such a gift, especially for someone who started a bit later and isn’t as comfortable with technology. I joined online art groups and classes, like Makings and Musings, and found people who genuinely cared about art, about learning, and about helping each other grow. It’s a warm, safe place where I can share my work without fear of judgment.
In the beginning, I was a bit shy. But over time, I found that people were supportive. I could ask questions, get feedback, and see others’ progress, which encouraged me to keep going. I now have friends across the world, people I would never have met otherwise. It’s incredible to have a sense of belonging to a global community.
Q: Looking back, is there a particular artwork or moment that holds a special place in your heart?
MH: There’s one painting I did that has a lot of meaning to me. My mother had a little garden when I was a child, and I remember how much she loved her flowers. After she passed, I felt the urge to paint a bouquet—something I’d never tried before. It took me weeks to complete, and it wasn’t perfect by any means, but it felt like a tribute to her, to that memory.
When I finished, I felt like I had captured something special, not just in the paint but in myself. It was an emotional experience, and it reminded me that art can connect us to parts of ourselves and our past in a way nothing else can.
Q: That’s so moving, MH. What would you say to others who are curious about starting art later in life?
MH: I’d say, just start. Don’t wait until you feel “ready” or until you have the “right” supplies. Pick up a pencil, a brush, or whatever you can find, and see what happens. Be kind to yourself—no one’s an expert from day one. Art is a journey, and it doesn’t have to lead anywhere specific. It’s about the process, the joy, and what you learn about yourself along the way.
Also, I’d suggest finding a community. It helps to have people around you who understand what you’re experiencing and can encourage you. And most importantly, enjoy it! Art is a gift, a way to express yourself and find peace. Don’t worry about what anyone else thinks; just create.
Q: Thank you, MH, for sharing your inspiring story. Any final thoughts for our readers?
MH: Thank you, Irene! I just want to say, life goes by so quickly, and sometimes we put off the things that bring us joy. If art is something that tugs at your heart, don’t ignore it. Trust that you’re capable of creating beauty and that it’s never too late to start. Every brushstroke, every line you draw brings you closer to discovering something wonderful about yourself.
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