An 87-year-old woman from Jeju Island, South Korea, has held her first solo art exhibition after discovering a passion for painting [1].
Her journey serves as a testament to lifelong learning and the idea that personal fulfillment can be found at any stage of life. By transitioning from a traditional lifestyle to the arts, she aims to inspire others to pursue dormant interests regardless of their age.
좌기춘 began her artistic pursuit at age 45 [1]. She first picked up a brush after receiving encouragement from her family [2]. The transition from a beginner to a featured artist was rapid, as she opened her first solo exhibition just two years after she started painting [1].
Her work focuses on the natural beauty of her home region. She said she feels a deep immersion in her subjects while working. "When I paint, I feel as if I am there, in that place," she said. "Then, if there are this many stones here, there would be this much grass; if there is a tree of this size, it would have grown to this extent" [2].
The artist said that painting brings her great joy. She believes her experience demonstrates that it is never too late to begin a new chapter, or master a new skill [2]. Her exhibition showcases the landscapes of Jeju, including the sea and the island's distinct flora, reflecting the environment she has known throughout her life.
By sharing her work publicly, she hopes to provide a sense of hope to others who may feel they have missed their opportunity to follow a dream. Her story highlights a shift in how elderly populations in South Korea engage with creative expression and public visibility [1].
“It’s never too late to start”
This story reflects a broader cultural trend of 'active aging' in South Korea, where seniors are increasingly challenging traditional retirement norms by pursuing professional artistic or academic goals. It underscores the psychological benefits of creative engagement in late adulthood and the role of family support in facilitating these transitions.
