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National Grandma Moses Day September 7

Have you ever stumbled upon a story so inspiring that it makes you want to pick up a brush and start painting, no matter your age? Grandma Moses, or Anna Mary Robertson Moses as she was born, is the epitome of such inspiration. Born into a world far removed from the digital age, in Greenwich, New York, her journey to becoming a celebrated American folk artist is nothing short of remarkable. Starting her serious pursuit of art in her late 70s, after years of farming, Moses shattered the age barrier, proving that passion and creativity know no expiration date. Her naive paintings, brimming with the charm of rural life, gained her national acclaim in the late 1930s and 1940s. From farm scenes to village life and the changing seasons, her work invites us into a simpler time, all while showcasing her undeniable talent and determination. Moses' story isn't just about art; it's a testament to the power of following one's dreams, no matter how late in life they bloom.

Key Takeaway

Grandma Moses, born Anna Mary Robertson Moses, was an American folk artist known for her simple and charming paintings of rural scenes.
Despite starting her painting career in her late 70s, Moses gained national recognition in the late 1930s and 1940s and became a successful artist, leaving behind a legacy of inspiring late-in-life achievement and creativity.

Timeline

1860
Birth of Anna Mary Robertson
Anna Mary Robertson, also known as Grandma Moses, was born in Greenwich, New York.
1887
Marriage to Thomas Salmon Moses
Anna Mary Robertson married Thomas Salmon Moses and had ten children with him.
1932
Start of Painting Career
After her husband’s death, Anna Mary Robertson began painting at the age of 78, using leftover house paint and dime-store brushes.
1938
First Art Show
Grandma Moses had her first art show at the Gallerie St. Etienne in New York City, where her paintings were an instant success.
1940
First Major Museum Exhibition
The Museum of Modern Art in New York City held the first major museum exhibition of Grandma Moses’s work.
1949
Presidential Recognition
President Harry S. Truman presented Grandma Moses with the Women’s National Press Club Award for outstanding accomplishment in art.
1950
National Grandma Moses Day Established
New York Governor Thomas E. Dewey declared September 7 as National Grandma Moses Day in honor of her 90th birthday.
1961
Death of Grandma Moses
Grandma Moses died at the age of 101 in Hoosick Falls, New York.

Day Activities

  1. Kick off National Grandma Moses Day with a morning visit to your local art museum or gallery showcasing American folk art. Many venues host special exhibits or tours highlighting Grandma Moses' work around this time. It's a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the simplicity and charm of her paintings, getting a firsthand look at the rural scenes that captured the heart of America.

  2. In the afternoon, why not channel your inner Grandma Moses by attending a folk art painting workshop? These sessions often cater to artists of all levels and ages, emphasizing the naive style that Moses championed. Whether you're a seasoned painter or someone who's never held a brush, this activity promises a fun, hands-on experience, celebrating creativity at any age.

  3. As the day winds down, gather friends or family for an evening of storytelling and art appreciation at home. Share tales of late bloomers like Grandma Moses, who remind us it's never too late to pursue our passions. You could even display any folk art pieces created during the day, turning your living space into a mini gallery, honoring Moses' legacy and the enduring appeal of her work.

Interesting Facts

1. Late Bloomer

Grandma Moses started painting seriously in her late 70s, proving it's never too late to chase a dream.

2. Folk Art Icon

Her naive paintings, brimming with rural charm, made her a celebrated American folk artist.

3. Inspiring Success

Her work gained national acclaim in the late 1930s, showcasing her undeniable talent and determination.

4. Vibrant Rural Life

Moses' art captured the essence of rural life, from farm scenes to changing seasons.

5. Legacy Lives On

National Grandma Moses Day on September 7 celebrates her life, art, and inspiring late-in-life success.

Why We Love This Day

  • Inspiration knows no age limit.
    Grandma Moses kicked off her painting career in her late 70s, proving that it's never too late to chase your dreams. Her story is a powerful reminder that age is just a number when it comes to pursuing your passions. Whether you're 15 or 50, her journey encourages us all to start now, no matter how old the calendar says you are.

  • Celebration of rural beauty and simplicity.
    Through her art, Grandma Moses captured the essence of rural life with a charm and naivete that pulls at the heartstrings. Her paintings, filled with vibrant scenes of farm life, changing seasons, and village festivities, invite us to find joy and beauty in the simple things. On National Grandma Moses Day, we're reminded to slow down, breathe in, and appreciate the world around us, just as she did.

  • A testament to lifelong learning and creativity.
    Not only did Grandma Moses show the world that it's possible to start a new chapter later in life, but she also became a symbol of perseverance and lifelong creativity. Her ability to pick up a brush in her golden years and not only learn a new skill but excel at it, inspires us to keep learning, growing, and creating, no matter where we are in life's journey.

Past & Future Dates

Month Day Year
SEPTEMBER 7 2022
SEPTEMBER 7 2023
SEPTEMBER 7 2024
SEPTEMBER 7 2025
SEPTEMBER 7 2026
SEPTEMBER 7 2027
SEPTEMBER 7 2028

FAQ

What is Grandma Moses' day?

U.S. Grandma Moses Day is celebrated on September 7 each year, honoring the renowned artist Anna Mary Robertson Moses, more famously known as Grandma Moses. This special day commemorates her birth in 1860 and is a nod to her significant contributions to the art world, especially as someone who embarked on her artistic journey later in life.

What is the national day for September 7th?

NATIONAL GRATEFUL PATIENT DAY falls on September 7, serving as a day to express gratitude towards patients and recognize the resilience and strength they show in the face of health challenges.

What are 5 facts about Grandma Moses?

  1. Grandma Moses didn't start painting until she was 78 years old, turning to art after arthritis made it difficult to continue with embroidery.
  2. Initially, she received no formal art training, relying instead on her natural talent and earlier experiences with creating art.
  3. Her artwork captures the simplicity and nostalgia of American rural life, earning her widespread acclaim and admiration.
  4. She lived to be 101 years old, painting over 1,500 pieces, with some created even past her 100th birthday.
  5. President Harry Truman awarded her the Women's National Press Club trophy for outstanding accomplishment in art in 1949, solidifying her status as an iconic figure in American culture.

Why is it called Grandma Moses?

The artist earned the endearing nickname "Grandma Moses" after Louis J. Caldor, a collector from New York, stumbled upon her artwork and assisted in showcasing her talents professionally. It was a reviewer from New York's Herald Tribune who first coined the nickname, capturing the public’s heart and spotlighting her as a symbol of nostalgia and simplicity through her paintings.