Out of all the “isms”, ageism definitely does not get enough attention. While it also works to discredit young people for being too inexperienced, too impulsive, too naive etc, ageism mostly renders the older population invisible. A 2019 study by the AARP showed that only 15% of images in the American media show people over 50. Additionally, there is an entire industry that functions on feeding the consumers’ belief that aging is something to avoid at all costs- further alienating and marginalizing the elderly. In a cancel culture world that is increasingly intolerant to offensive language and prejudiced practices, our youth obsessed societies seem oblivious to blatant ageism in everyday representations, language and normalized behaviors.
While women in art are already at a disadvantage with respect to visibility, older women artists have the extra marginalization factor that comes with their age. I chose in my fourth painting in the series “Art From The Edge” to portray an artist who unapologetically breaks this mold. Etel Adnan -Lebanese-born writer and artist that the art and literary world lost at age 96 last year - only got widespread recognition for her art at age 87. Her unassuming approach to life and art is marked by a philosophy that is at the same time light and profound. In her artwork, she pays tribute to earth and life with a joy that manifests itself in playful abstractions of color that celebrate nature.
The weaving and the background shapes are an homage to her beautiful work, as is the vibrant red square you can find in many of her pieces. 🟥