How many retirees become artists?

Have you noticed how many retirees become artists? How many pick up a paintbrush? Or, perhaps they choose photography or another medium. Below the surface, I think we are all artists.

As a REALTOR, when I worked primarily with recent retirees, I discovered how many of them were artists. Some had years of formal training. Others, I learned, had dabbled in art while earning a living in other careers. Then, in retirement, they have the freedom to pursue art and uncover their hidden talents.

Syd McGinley, Artist

One of my real estate clients, Syd McGinley, has been an artist all her life. I feel privileged to know her, and I learned so much from Syd as we searched for their retirement home. First, she taught me how art is based on mathematics.

Mathematics isn’t always evident in art unless you discover it. But there’s plenty of symmetry, geometry, and calculation involved in creating beautiful art.

https://artofmaths.eu/the-mathematics-in-art/

Good lighting is critical. Therefore, it was important to find a house with a room for her studio with northern light. Syd referred to it as “true light;” I found a detailed explanation here –

North Light basks the subject matter and painting in the same cool atmosphere. It helps the artist control values, contrasts, and subtle color changes within a painting.

https://lorimcnee.com/why-how-to-turn-your-window-into-instant-north-light/

Jerry Strum, Artist

Another client who became a good friend, Jerry Strum, is also a talented artist. After an illustrious career in education, Jerry retired to their home in Rehoboth Beach. The painting shown in this photo now hangs in my home. (See that brace on my left arm? Read my blog on Pickleball, and please be careful. Do not back up!)

Becky Steele, Artist

Becky Steele was a successful corporate executive with a large real estate corporation. As we became better acquainted, I discovered she was also a fantastic artist. She posted her paintings on her Facebook page, and I fell in love with one of them. It now hangs on my bedroom wall. Then, Bill and I visited her on a road trip to the Carolinas. It poured rain one day, and Becky asked if we were game to try something. As a result, she set us up with paint, brushes, and canvases. Could she use painting as a team-building activity? In her retirement, she was looking to combine her skills in coaching and art.

Her process is fascinating. To begin, she told us to write some words on the canvas. The words should express what we wanted to convey in our paintings. We did. Then she told us to connect the words. Next, she said to paint the spaces created by the lines. As she continued to coach us, images started to appear. It was the first time I had ever held a paintbrush; the afternoon just disappeared as we continued until Becky declared my painting done. The resulting picture is now hanging amidst all the real artwork I’ve acquired.

Elena Madden, Artist

Now that I’m retired living in the Keys, artists of all kinds surround me. Artists like Elena Madden, a Savannah College of Art and Design graduate. Elena’s art is featured in collections both locally and nationally. Commissioned paintings hang at resorts like Cheeca Lodge and fine dining restaurants like Chef Michael’s in Islamorada. Her art has traveled to all parts of this country and overseas as visitors took her home with them.

In the heart of Islamorada, the monthly Morada Art Walk showcases all manner of artists and artisans. There is something for everyone, from fine art, local artwork, and gift items by local artisans.

One Final Thought

Many retirees become artists. So, the question is, will you? The best part of trying new things in retirement is that you don’t have to be the best; you only need to enjoy what you’re doing. If it makes you smile, keep on; if not, try something new! So far, my calendar is filling up with Pickleball, writing this blog, taking art classes, and yoga. Life is Good!