News

From Grandma Moses to Frank McCourt: it’s never too late for artistic success

History is littered with artists who found success late in life, including writers such as Frank McCourt. Here's a list of artists who prove it's never too late.

11 Mar 2025 9:00

David Burton

Artists like Frank McCourt and Grandma Moses became well-known very late in life. (Image: WikiArt)

All Arts

‘Great Fire (The Burning of Troy in 1862)’ by Grandma Moses, produced at age 99 in 1959. Image: WikiArt.

It is all too easy to fall prey to negative messages around pursuing a career change late in life, least of all a creative pursuit. While evidence is plentiful that taking creativity seriously benefits ageing, there are also countless examples of well-regarded artists who started their practice late in life. Here’s a list of just five.

Anna Mary Robertson Moses, also known as Grandma Moses, was an American folk artist who began painting at 78 years old. She only picked up a paintbrush out of desperation after arthritis forced her to give up on her needlework. Within two years, her work was exhibited at the Museum of Modern Art in New York.

Unlock this content?

Access this content and more

Join Now Login

David Burton

David Burton is a writer from Meanjin, Brisbane. David also works as a playwright, director and author. He is the playwright of over 30 professionally produced plays. He holds a Doctorate in the Creative Industries.