Sheila Daube San Diego CA
Age 62
What keeps you excited in the studio? For me, art has always been about tapping into that pure, unfiltered response to color and form—the way a child might approach it. In fact, I've been trying to paint like a five-year-old for years, seeking to reconnect with my original, instinctive reactions to line and hue.
Looking back at your trajectory as an artist, how would you say your work has developed? Looking back at my trajectory as an artist, I can see how my work has evolved both in terms of style and approach, while always remaining grounded in my desire to reconnect with a childlike instinct for color and form. Early on, I was deeply influenced by the bold, geometric abstraction of mid-century American artists, but over time, I’ve shifted toward a more intuitive, process-driven practice.
My years as a preschool teacher were pivotal in this evolution. Working with young children helped me rediscover a sense of freedom in my creative process—the way they approach materials with unrestrained joy and curiosity. This experience has influenced how I engage with my own art, focusing more on spontaneity and less on control. I’ve become more comfortable allowing the work to evolve organically, sometimes letting accidents or unexpected results guide the direction of the piece.
In terms of medium, I’ve increasingly explored the use of unconventional materials like foil and powdered pigments, which have added texture and depth to my work. These materials help convey a sense of energy and transformation, much like the way myths transform over time and across cultures. The fusion of color, texture, and form has become central to my practice, and I continue to experiment with ways to push these elements in new directions.
Looking forward, I feel my work is still in flux, always searching for a deeper understanding of the balance between abstraction and emotion, control and spontaneity. It’s exciting to see how my creative voice continues to develop, but at the same time, I’m always returning to the simplicity and immediacy that first drew me to art.
What role do you think the artist has in today’s society? Today’s artists have more freedom and access to tools than ever before, and with that comes the incredible opportunity to stay fresh and creative through constant experimentation. It’s all about maintaining that fearless, open mindset—like throwing shit on the wall and seeing what sticks. There is no wrong way to make art. Every medium, every technique, every material is an open invitation to explore and push boundaries. The most exciting work often comes from those moments of uncertainty and risk, where you step outside your comfort zone and try something new. Whether it’s playing with unconventional materials, breaking from traditional processes, or embracing happy accidents, the key is to keep moving forward and stay curious. Art isn’t about perfection—it’s about expression, growth, and the freedom to keep learning and evolving. So, experiment without fear, make a mess, and trust that every new direction you take has the potential to uncover something unexpected and exciting.
What’s the most important advice you could give to an aspiring artist? To newer, emerging artists, I would say: embrace the messiness and playfulness of your process. Don't be afraid to make mistakes or let things get out of hand. It’s easy to get caught up in the pressure to create something "perfect" or polished, but the magic often happens when you step outside of those boundaries. The more I allow myself to experiment, to throw paint around, to work quickly and intuitively, the more I discover about my own creativity. Think of art as a space where you can be free—free from judgment, free from expectations. When you stay playful and let go of the need for everything to "make sense," that’s when your true voice starts to emerge. Be curious, embrace the chaos, and remember: the most interesting discoveries often come from the unexpected.
Does age matter in art? Why or why not? Age doesn't necessarily dictate the quality or authenticity of art, but it can bring a depth of life experience that enhances an artist's work. As we age, we gain a broader perspective, a greater sense of self, and more freedom to express who we truly are without the fear of judgment. Life experiences—whether joyful, painful, or mundane—become woven into our creative voices, allowing us to communicate in more nuanced and powerful ways. That said, younger artists can also tap into this same freedom. They may not have the years of life experience, but they can still express themselves with raw honesty and energy. The key is having the right environment—being surrounded by people, mentors, or communities who encourage you to take risks and give yourself permission to be unapologetically authentic. Whether you're 20 or 70, true creativity comes when you allow yourself to be open and vulnerable, and when you embrace the freedom to explore and evolve, regardless of age.
What can we look forward to from you next? Next up for me is an exciting solo show in San Francisco, which feels like a fresh, new chapter compared to my work in San Diego. The energy and vibe of the city are so different, and it’s inspiring me to push my work in new directions. I’m currently working on a chicken series that’s been so much fun to make—bright, bold, and full of playful energy. The series is in Mexico right now, but I can’t wait to bring that same sense of joy and spontaneity into my new pieces. For me, it’s all about continuing to paint big, paint loud, and paint with freedom. I want to keep exploring what’s possible and stay true to the fun and playful side of my creative process
Is there anything else you would like to share about being an artist later in life? It's ok to take naps!
