Feb 06, 2009 — Most artists will tell you that art is a career you never retire from. And that's the joy of being an artist. Max Coots is probably best known for having been the Minister of the Unitarian Universalist Church in Canton. He retired in 1992 after nearly 40 years in the pulpit. His well-crafted sermons and meditative poems have been published in books, but his sculptures may come as a surprise. It was only since retiring at the age of 65 that he's been able to pursue his love of art and working with clay. Now in his early 80's, he's proof that you're never too old to follow your passions. Todd Moe has more.

Max Coots will receive an Arts Recognition Award on Saturday as part of the St. Lawrence County Arts Council's Membership Celebration at 4 pm in Potsdam. To be followed by the opening of a new exhibit of his sculptures.