Navigating the Art World as a Late-Blooming Artist: Cathy Dement's Story

Navigating the Art World as a Late-Blooming Artist: Cathy Dement's Story

 

Embarking on a journey as a late-blooming artist wasn't something I initially envisioned for myself. For years, I pursued a career in pharmacy, balancing my passion for art with the demands of everyday life. However, as time went on, I found myself yearning to explore my creative side more fully. It wasn't until later in life that I made the decision to start pursuing my artwork more fully, embarking on a new chapter filled with uncertainty and excitement.

The road to becoming a full-time artist later in life wasn't without its challenges. One of the biggest hurdles I faced was overcoming self-doubt and fear of failure. As someone who had spent the majority of their career in a different field, stepping into the world of art felt like venturing into uncharted territory. However, I quickly realized that age should never be a barrier to pursuing one's passions. Instead of focusing on what I hadn't done in the past, I chose to embrace the opportunity to start anew and follow my heart.

Another obstacle I encountered was the practical aspect of transitioning to a new career. Fortunately, since I am still a part-time practicing pharmacist, financial considerations were not as much of an issue for me as they are for some artists. However, I approached this challenge with a sense of pragmatism and determination. 

To other aspiring artists who may be starting their artistic journey later in life, my advice is simple: don't let age or past experiences hold you back. Embrace your creativity and pursue your dreams with unwavering determination. Remember that every artist's journey is unique, and there is no "right" or "wrong" path to success. Surround yourself with a supportive community of fellow artists who can offer guidance, encouragement, and inspiration along the way. And above all, believe in yourself and your ability to create something truly meaningful and beautiful.

The process of transitioning from "just a pharmacist" to both "pharmacist and artist" as a career later in life has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my journey. It has allowed me to fully immerse myself in my passion for art, explore new avenues of creativity, and connect with others who share my love for artistic expression. While the road may have been challenging at times (and still is!), the sense of fulfillment and joy that comes from pursuing my dreams makes it all worthwhile.

Cathy

P.S. This picture is a piece that I did in the late 90's.  It is a stippling piece, made up of tiny dots of ink.  I estimate that this one took around 60 hours of work to complete.  

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