Grandma Moses Day

Grandma Moses Day is a holiday dedicated to the famous artist who challenged the world and became famous at an advanced age thanks to her talent. September 7th is Anna Mary Robertson Moses’ birthday. She began to show her ability to draw at the age of 50 and became one of the most famous artists of our time.

History

Anna Mary Robertson was born on September 7, 1887. After marriage, she took her husband’s surname but kept her maiden name, becoming known as Anna Mary Robertson Moses. She took up painting for the first time at age 50, and fame came to her at 70 when arthritis prevented her from continuing to embroider and sew. Grandma Moses Day was established by New York Governor Nelson Rockefeller to coincide with her centenary.

Interesting Facts

• Grandma Moses is a self-taught artist; she never studied at a specialized school, which gives many of her works a primitive appearance.
• The main theme of her paintings is rural life.
• She sold her first works at a local pharmacy for $10.
• In 1938, all the paintings of Grandma Moses were bought by art collector Louis Caldor. He organized an exhibition of the artist’s works at the Museum of Modern Art, and the following year her paintings were showcased in New York.
• Grandma Moses’ works are sold in North America and Europe.
• Her paintings often decorate Christmas cards.

How to take part

Read the biography of this amazing woman, let her inspire you to believe in yourself and your potential for success. Grandma Moses appeared on the cover of LIFE magazine at 100—a worthy example to follow. Find her work online, or buy a painting. Try to draw something yourself; drawing calms, inspires, and clears the mind. If you want to get better acquainted with the artist’s work, visit the Bennington Museum in Vermont.

When is Grandma Moses Day in 2024?

Grandma Moses Day is observed on September 7 each year.

Observations