Beyond 70: The Lives of Creative Women

by Stacy Russo

What will you be doing BEYOND 70? Far from the stereotypical views of older life being a time of decline, this inspiring collection of interviews with 21 creative women age 70 or older affirms that life in the “third act” is often a period of vitality, growth, courage, new possibilities, and even reawakening. This full-color book honors the accomplishments of these talented women who engage in painting, photography, storytelling, mixed media and collage, music, artists’ books, writing, and sculpture. Their work is discussed in tandem with the history and evolution of each woman’s artistic life. Through the power of personal narratives, this collection works against age- and gender-based discrimination. The diverse women artists of BEYOND 70, ranging in age from 70 through 98, offer their stories as benchmark contributions to the literature on creativity, artists’ lives, women’s studies/feminism, and aging.

166 pages, Paperback

Published February 8, 2023

About the author

Stacy Russo is a California poet, writer, and artist who is committed to creating books and art for a more peaceful world. After a long career in libraries, she currently serves as Professor of English at Santa Ana College. Stacy's books have been featured on National Public Radio, Pacifica Radio, the Canadian Broadcasting System, Sirius XM Radio, KCET Artbound, LA Weekly, and various other media channels. She holds degrees from the University of California, Berkeley; Chapman University; and San Jose State University.

Stacy believes in the power of personal story, lifelong learning, and peaceful living. She takes her coffee black and eats chocolate before noon each day.

Reviews

[Karine Halpern · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stacy is more than an author. Love activism, drawing and collage, research, creative writing, publishing, all symbiotic activities that make the oeuvre of a real artist. This book is important as we get older and must care about life experience and knowledgeable wisdom from women. Find more about Stacy Russo on her websites and follow her for work in progress and future publications.

[Mary Camarillo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m beyond 70 and this book gives me hope for my creative endeavors. I admired Russo’s respectful prose and the way she was able to learn so much from each artist about their lives and creative processes. The design and art in the book is as beautiful as its subject matter. Completely inspirational.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a stunning book.
I loved reading about the vivacious lives of women over 70. Brava to Stacy Russo for sharing these diverse stories and giving voice to women who have so much wisdom to share from their textured and remarkable experiences. Such bravery and kindness, and many life lessons you'll ponder long after reading about each woman. I dog-eared many pages to go back to. It's a beautiful gift that I'll share with friends, many of them young women.