the ageing aesthetic; uncommon

​Robert Butler  coined the term “ageism” in 1969. He identified 4 types. These ”premature cognitive commitments”  (site?) are very challenging to change. The one that fascinates me the most and likely the most challenging to change, is personal or internal ageism.  
Common to all stereotypes and formed very early in life, we need to recognize these thoughts as distorted and barriers to our ability to move forward in our psychological development. If not challenged personally, ageism (or any ‘ism’) will continue as this insidious yet powerful bias that colours everyday life and especially policy that directs everyday life.
When I ask an old person to sit for me to draw, I have learned to expect a surprised response; a disbelief that their aged looks would appeal.  Driven by a youth- oriented society, the ageing aesthetic is not usually perceived as beautiful but either sentimentalized or vilified.
The lines, shapes and subtleties of the ageing aesthetic are an ultimate form of beauty in my eyes. At the risk of being repetitive, that which is considered beautiful is valued. I strive to push the envelope; to persist on urging you to share the beauty; regard….