Last Artist Standing : Living and Sustaining a Creative Life over 50

Last Artist Standing shares the essays of the lives of 31 artists over the age of 50, how they have sustained their creative lives, what paths they have led, showing who contemporary artists are today. They are mentors to other artists, having learned how to thrive and be creative through decades of life's travails. Sharon Louden wants to share these stories with the public so that their models can be replicated by all age groups, both within and beyond the art world. This collection addresses the ability of these artists to remain contemporary as they adapt through generational shifts, the physical, financial and professional challenges they have overcome to remain vibrant and sustaining artists, and their role as inspirational models to others who may be turning to art late in their lives.

A look at how seasoned artists stay relevant and inspire new generations.

Last Artist Standing presents essays on the lives of thirty-one artists over the age of fifty, which explore how they have sustained their creative lives and the different paths they have taken throughout their artistic careers. The artists discussed here have learned how to thrive and be creative through decades of life’s challenges, and they have become mentors to other artists. This collection addresses the ability of these artists to remain contemporary as they adapt through generational shifts, the challenges—the physical, financial, and professional—they have overcome to remain vibrant and sustaining artists, and their role as inspirational models to others who may be turning to art late in their lives.

By sharing these artists’ stories, this book hopes to offer examples of living an engaged and creative life that can be replicated across all age groups, both within and beyond the art world.
 
Cover image:
Jaq Chartier
Blues w/8 Whites
2020
16” x 16”
Acrylic, inks, dyes, stains & spray paint on wood panel
Courtesy of the artist