Those artists who regularly teach adult classes and do workshops know that it's a growth industry. I realize I'm witness to a phenomenon that has not existed to such a degree in previous times. It's estimated there are now 7 million women painters in the world. Outrageously challenging, art is also a tender and gentle activity that fits our times. Further, it's not at all surprising to me that excellent artists are rising from among these legions.
Women now get going at any age.
They can and do open their own doors. The expression of creativity is not the rare commodity it once was, nor is it the sinecure of men. I know excellent women artists who do original work without any response to speak of. Maybe they are used to lack of feedback. Maybe they are tougher.