Older artists' work alive with ability

It was heartwarming to read the article ``Vital Works Refute Ageism in Art,'' Aug. 9. As a locally recognized artist, 70 years old, I received more spontaneous recognition in my youth.

After recently participating in hosting Japanese guests on a goodwill mission, it is apparent that the Japanese hold much respect for age. They freely ask their host's age and admire the abilities that come with maturity. We in the United States tend to hide our age and pretend to be younger, which gives us a false sense of quality and even a feeling of insecurity.

The mature artist does have to break a cultural stereotype of being retired and lacking in energy, and being pushed to the recesses of the past. Many older artists actually show unusual vitality and innovation in their work. Charlotte Whitney, Olivet, Mich.

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