I was recently showing my work to a gallery.  Things seemed to be going well and then somehow the conversation turned to our respective ages.  I guess I’m lucky, most people think I am a lot younger than I look … must be my strict diet of black and white analog photography!  When I said I would to turning 67 next month things seemed to change a bit. I was informed with some humor that I only had three years to go until I reached 70. While probably not meant to be taken  seriously, the comment nevertheless made me feel like I was almost ready to be put out to pasture, and in three years it would surely be over for good!

Funny, I don’t feel that way. In fact, I know I’m in better health and shape then most people I know that are twenty years younger. I also know I am as creative as ever and have a full and meaningful life. But I wasn’t being viewed that way by a younger person … and perhaps by extension, so was my work.

I think things would be much different if I was well known and wielded some power or influence, and my work had a certain collectability. Sadly I don’t have these things, so I got a faster shuffle. I suspect what I just described happens in all facets of life. I just haven’t been subjected to it yet.

I’ve seen a number of art organizations that charge their members hundreds of dollars for annual dues. Shows are available to them for a fee of a thousand dollar or more.  It’s a feel good exercise for the members and a living for those that run the organizations.

So here’s my view for those of a certain age. If you’re into competitions, go ahead and knock yourself out. Galleries … try it, but just be prepared. Member organizations open to all … if it makes you feel good be a part of it.

Want a different approach?  Here are a few ideas. How about doing the work that’s meaningful to you because you love doing it. If you want to show your work, how about building a website and displaying it. More people will see it on the Internet than in a gallery.  How about self-publishing your own books?  I’ve been toying with the idea for a long time, and now think I might be ready to take the plunge.

I’m not going to sweat to much about what people think about my work any more, or chase too hard after things that aren’t all that important. How refreshing … I feel better already! But don’t worry; I’m not throwing in the towel. Far from it! Hey, if someone from Gen Whatever think’s I’m running out of gas because of my age … well #@$##R@! Newsflash … you’re getting older too.  You may not wish to think about it, or are afraid too, but it’s happening. Sorry.

Look, I’ve had a very fulfilling and meaningful photographic life – which is far from over, thank you!

To those that don’t get it … stay out of my way. Now that’s refreshing too!

Stay safe,

Michael