She Started Drawing at 70. Now at 99, Her Art Is Inspiring Everyone

May 5, 2026

At 99 years old, Nita Draut is living proof that it’s never too late to start something new — and discover a passion that touches the lives of others.

Nita Draut / Credit: KMBC 9

Nearly three decades ago, Draut picked up a pencil for the very first time at age 70. What began as simple curiosity has since grown into a deeply personal artistic journey, one now being honored with an exhibit of her work at Fusion Art Gallery as she approaches her 100th birthday.

Her medium of choice is graphite, and her inspiration is all around her.

“When I see something that would make a good drawing, I just go up and ask if I can draw it,” Draut said.

That “something” is usually people. Strangers in stores, everyday faces, fleeting moments that catch her eye. For Draut, each subject carries meaning beyond the page.

“Every one of those people means something to me,” she said.

Her approach is refreshingly simple and wonderfully bold. If she sees a face or a scene that inspires her, she asks for permission and begins sketching. And in all her years of doing so, she says she’s never once been turned down.

“It’s anybody. I could be in a store and I see something that would make a good drawing, and I ask if I can draw, and I’ve never been refused,” she shared.

Over time, her collection has grown into something far more than a hobby. It’s a reflection of human connection, built one sketch at a time. The people around her began to take notice, including staff at Ascend Healthcare, who helped bring her artwork into the spotlight with a gallery exhibit.

“I think it’s an inspiration for anybody who would think that they’re too old or it’s too late to start something. She’s proved that it’s not,” said Jason Fewin.

Even now, Draut finds joy in knowing her work resonates with others.

“You can’t know really how satisfying that is, that you’re doing something that people like,” she said.

As she continues her journey, she hopes her story encourages others to take that first step, no matter their age or stage in life.

“I just love the people that I draw. I hope other people will be inspired to try their work at art maybe,” Draut said.

From a first sketch at 70 to a gallery exhibit at 99, her story is a reminder that it’s never too late to create something meaningful — and to share it with the world.