I Started My Art Career At The Age Of Forty-Five
Life has a beautiful way of revealing our passions, often when we least expect it. For me, art has always held a special place in my heart. For years, a subtle undercurrent of self-doubt and a profound lack of confidence hindered me from fully recognising the artist within me. However, everything changed when I entered my forties.
From the moment I picked up a coloured drawing pencil in my school days, a spark ignited within me. But as I glanced at my classmates' still life and realistic drawings, a sense of inadequacy overshadowed my own artistic efforts. I couldn't help but compare myself to their innate talent, feeling like I could never measure up. Yet, deep within, a flicker of hope remained and a belief that art is far more expansive than my experiences at school and that anyone can be an artist.
During my younger years, I considered art and other creative subjects as more of a cherished hobby rather than a viable career option. Redirecting my attention and efforts toward the sciences, psychology and philosophy, I delved into another world that fascinated me. While I focused on my scientific pursuits, the artist within me patiently waited for its time to resurface.
As years went by, that spark of creativity remained, waiting patiently for the right moment to ignite into a blaze. It was when I turned 45 that I finally decided to set aside my doubts and nurture my artistic side. I shed my inhibitions and embraced the joy of creating without constraints. I realized that art is not a competition or a race against others; it's a personal journey of self-expression and growth. I watched countless YouTube videos to teach myself how to paint with different art mediums and slowly started to build up my confidence and skill level. Being able to dedicate my time and energy to creating art gave me an immense sense of satisfaction and fulfilment.
Through sharing my own artistic journey, I hope to inspire others who may have felt the same doubts and reservations. I want to remind them that creativity has no age limit and that art can take countless forms. Whether it's abstract paintings, mixed media, or avant-garde sculptures, every artist has their unique voice waiting to be heard. By embracing our individuality and letting go of comparisons, we can set ourselves free to explore the vast world of artistic expression.
It's comforting to know that my experience is not unique. Throughout history, numerous artists discovered their true creative potential later in life. Like self taught artist Grandma Moses, who began painting in her 70s, and Paul Cézanne, who found his breakthrough in his 50s. Louise Bourgeois a French-American sculptor and installation artist, achieved widespread recognition in her later years. These late blooming artists shattered the notion that art is limited to a specific age or time frame. Their stories remind us that artistic expression is a lifelong journey, one that can thrive and flourish at any stage.
As I continue to nurture my artistic spirit, I encourage others to do the same. Whether we start painting in our teens or discover our passion in later years, our art is valid and significant. By focusing on self-expression, personal growth, and the sheer joy of creating, we open ourselves to a world of possibilities. So, let your artistic journey unfold, brushstroke by brushstroke, and watch as your unique voice emerges, unburdened by comparisons or limitations.
A selection of Kunjan Thankey’s naive and folk art paintings
