Ask an Artist: Am I too old to learn how to draw?

A asked me: “How do I start making art when I feel like I’ve left it too late?” "Am I too old to learn how to draw?"

One of the most common things people say to me is this:

“I wish I had started sooner.”

And then comes the question that often sits quietly behind it:

“Is it too late for me to start now?”

I want to tell you, with all my heart: it is never too late.

Not only can you begin making art at any age, but in many ways, starting later in life is a gift. You bring your life experience with you. Your joys, your losses, your way of seeing the world—these become part of your art. And that is something no one can teach. That is something only time can give.

Am I too old to learn how to draw?

Art is not just for the young

We often think of art as something for children or for those who’ve trained from a young age. But really, art is a way of expressing who we are. It’s a way to slow down, to pay attention, and to play.

I’ve worked with many people in their 50s, 60s, 70s and beyond who hadn’t picked up a pencil since school. Some were nervous. Some didn’t think they could draw a stick figure. But they all had one thing in common: curiosity.

That’s all you need to begin.

A little inspiration from history

You might be surprised to learn that Grandma Moses, one of the most beloved American folk artists, only started painting in her 70s. Before that, she spent her life on a farm. She began painting because arthritis made embroidery too painful—and her paintings went on to hang in museums.

She once said: “I would never sit back in a rocking chair, waiting for someone to help me.”

What a spirit.

Stories from our community

I asked a few members of our lovely art community to share what it was like to start again after many years. Here’s what they said:

“I hadn’t drawn since I was a teenager. I always told myself I wasn’t good at it. Now, at 64, I keep a daily sketchbook, and I feel like I’ve found a part of myself again.” – Judith

“I started Irene’s sketchbook course at 70. I was so nervous at first. But now I look forward to it every day. It calms my mind and gives me joy. I can’t believe I waited so long.” – Dhruvika

“I thought I was ‘too old to learn,’ but I was wrong. I’ve learned to see things differently. Making art helps me notice beauty in everyday life.” – Carol

There is no wrong time to begin

You don’t need fancy materials. You don’t need to be “good.” You only need to start. You can make art in 10 minutes a day. You can begin with a sketchbook and a pen. Or a bit of paint and paper.

The hardest part is often just giving yourself permission.

So if you are wondering whether it’s too late for you, let me say this gently:

Now is the perfect time.

And I would be delighted to help you get started.

https://www.makingsandmusings.com/community