Why does the world love an ‘overnight success’ story? For some reason we adore a prodigy, and are quick to celebrate youthful geniuses. But, the path to recognition for many artists doesn’t always begin at the start….

There’s a few examples of exceptional artists today, that only got seen very late in their lives.

Take Louise Bourgeois, for example. She is one of the most recognized names in the art world today. But, she only created her most famous sculpture, Maman, after she turned 88 years old.

Another big name in the art world is Willem de Kooning. He worked as a house painter to support himself and his family. At the age of 44, he had his very first solo show.

Emily Kam Kngwarrey is another big name and her most beloved work are the NGV Collection….she first began her painting practice well into her 80s.

So, why don’t we adore these icons and legends more than the young prodigies of today?

The truth is, we’re conditioned to see creativity as a youthful trait, something that fades with age like a fleeting spark. But these stories show that creativity isn’t bound by time; it can be cultivated, deepened, and even discovered in later years. There’s something genuinely remarkable about artists who defy the stereotype, proving that true art is born from a lifetime of experiences, perspectives, and resilience—not just the boundless energy of youth.

Take these artists as proof: creativity isn’t always a sprint to fame in one’s twenties; for many, it’s a marathon, with years of learning, adapting, and, most importantly, honing one’s craft. The magic of age in the creative process lies in the richness it brings. Every year, every challenge, every triumph and setback adds layers of insight and depth to an artist’s work. And when an artist finally emerges into the public eye, it’s often not with the impetuousness of youth but with a calm, powerful confidence that resonates across generations.

The cultural obsession with the ‘young genius’ blinds us to the invaluable wisdom that older creators bring. We love the idea of raw, natural talent, but what about talent refined by years of life experience? What about art that reflects the complexities of life as only someone who’s lived decades could capture? Just as wine matures over time, so too does creativity. It becomes bolder, fuller, and more profound. When we see an artwork born from years of life’s highs and lows, it feels like a privilege—a window into a soul that has truly lived.

So, why don’t we celebrate these late-blooming icons more? Perhaps it’s time we shift the narrative to honor the slow bloom, the creators who spend years sowing seeds of brilliance that eventually blossom. Art is ageless; it doesn’t require a specific phase of life. Instead, it thrives at any age, whenever the artist is ready. Creativity has no expiration date—our minds and spirits are always capable of new, meaningful expressions, regardless of how many years we’ve been around. And that’s something worth celebrating, over and over again.

Written by ~ Elzett Kotze