Commissioned by Impact Initiatives in Partnership with Brighton & Hove City Council celebrating The United Nations Older People's Day. This Exhibition orginallyhad permission to be up for two weeks, by popular demand remained in the iconic public space of Brighton Train Station for six months. Sep 2017 May 2018
Rejuvenation is the act of making something newly fresh or full of energy. Rejuvenation makes something old seem young again. Many a mythical adventurer has set out to find the illusive fountain of youth. I don’t claim to have found it, but hopefully these portraits will give you a glimpse into the lives of some of those who seem to have a secret supply!
It was important to me that my images would honour the older people of our city, who are often overlooked. As a photographer, I know that most of us are a little apprehensive about having our photo taken. I like to bring out the best in everyone; I refer to it as ‘calling out the gold’ in people. Showing something of their inner beauty, strength and character - not just the superficial. I smile a lot and most people smile back at me! I prefer to work up close with people, being a part of the conversation, as it enables me to be more of a collaborator than a voyeur. Aged over 50 I too am already part of the story of the older people of this city.
I asked myself whether Brighton is geared up for older people, since the general consensus is that it’s a young people’s city. We live in an era where there is an unprecedented migration towards cities. I believe we need to prepare for a revival of city living for both old and young. It is therefore more important than ever that the generations work together, acknowledging the part that each plays in contributing to a more sustainable future. In the portraits, the subject is placed in the background, or slightly obstructed, inviting the viewer to look beyond their assumptions. These are just a small selection of the inspirational older people that make up the city of Brighton & Hove.
To read the Inspiring stories that go with these images, click on the link http://www.opf.org.uk/interviews/