Grandma Moses Day
Grandma Moses Day shines brightly on September 7 every year, lighting up the world with the legacy of a remarkable artist, Anna Mary Robertson Moses, also known as Grandma Moses.
This day is a vibrant celebration of creativity, perseverance, and the joy of art. People across the globe remember Grandma Moses not just for her captivating paintings but for the inspiring story of her life, reminding us all that it’s never too late to start something new.
Anna started painting in earnest at 77, turning to art after arthritis made continuing her embroidery work difficult. Her vivid, charming scenes of rural life caught the world’s attention, showing that passion and talent don’t have an expiration date.
Her artworks, initially sold for as little as $10, eventually reached awe-inspiring heights, with one piece selling for about $1.2 million. This day honors her as an icon of late-blooming talent and a beacon of hope for those dreaming of a second act in life.
In essence, Grandma Moses Day is a heartwarming reminder of life’s endless possibilities. It encourages everyone to explore new horizons and express themselves creatively, just as Anna did with each stroke of her brush.
It’s a day that celebrates the arts, the beauty of rural life, and the enduring spirit of those who, like Grandma Moses, show us that it’s never too late to chase our dreams and leave a mark on the world.
History of Grandma Moses Day
Grandma Moses Day has a heartwarming history that starts with the life of a remarkable artist, Anna Mary Robertson Moses, known affectionately as Grandma Moses.
Born on September 7, 1860, in Greenwich, New York, she lived a full life that bloomed even more beautifully in her later years. It was her 100th birthday that marked the beginning of Grandma Moses Day, proclaimed by then-New York Governor Nelson Rockefeller in 1960.
This special day was set to honor her and her inspiring journey into the world of art.
Anna didn’t start painting until her late 70s, switching from embroidery due to arthritis. Her vivid, folk-style paintings, which captured scenes from rural American life, quickly captured hearts.
Louis J. Caldor, an art collector, stumbled upon her works in 1938, marking the start of her public recognition. Her art was displayed in New York City and soon became beloved across the United States and Europe.
What makes Grandma Moses Day stand out is the celebration of her art and its message: it’s never too late to start anew.
Anna’s late start in the arts and her success thereafter serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration. She painted around 2,000 pieces, some of which were sold for as little as $10 but have since fetched over $1.2 million at auctions.
Her works were even reproduced on Christmas cards, further broadening her reach.
How to Celebrate Grandma Moses Day
The celebration of Grandma Moses Day isn’t just about remembering a folk artist. It’s a call to embrace creativity at any stage of life.
It’s a day when art lovers, inspired by Moses’ story, may pick up a paintbrush for the first time, visit museums to view her works, or simply share stories about how her journey has inspired their own.
Her paintings, featuring everyday scenes imbued with warmth and nostalgia, continue to be cherished worldwide, and her life story encourages us all to pursue our passions, regardless of age.
Celebrating Grandma Moses Day can be as colorful and unique as her paintings. Here are some quirky and playful suggestions to honor this iconic artist in style:
Dive into Digital Museums
Start your day by diving into the digital world. With a cup of your favorite beverage in hand, embark on a virtual tour of Grandma Moses’ art.
Websites and online museums showcase her vibrant landscapes and rural life scenes. It’s like having an art museum at your fingertips without the need for fancy attire!
Unleash Your Inner Artist
Why not grab some paint and channel your inner Grandma Moses? Don’t worry about perfection; remember, she started her painting career later in life with a folk art style that celebrated simplicity.
Create your masterpiece using whatever materials you have—whether it’s paint, crayons, or even digital tools. The goal is to have fun and express yourself.
Picnic with a Twist
Inspired by Moses’ pastoral scenes, pack a picnic but with a creative twist. Include foods that might feature in her paintings, like apple pie or homemade bread.
Find a scenic spot that could be straight out of one of her artworks. Don’t forget to sprinkle a little glitter around your picnic area for that authentic Grandma Moses sparkle.
Storytime Under the Stars
As evening falls, gather friends or family for an outdoor storytime. Share tales about Grandma Moses’ life, her late start in the art world, and her incredible legacy.
Use a lantern or flashlight to add a cozy ambiance. It’s a beautiful way to keep her spirit and stories alive, inspiring others to start new adventures, regardless of age.
These suggestions merge the old with the new, much like Grandma Moses herself, who brought nostalgic scenes to life through her paintings for modern audiences to cherish. By engaging in these activities, you honor her legacy in a way that’s both meaningful and full of joy.
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