WISE WOMEN . . . RESILIENT LIVES     

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     This social photography & storytelling project gives a voice to a diverse group of St. Louis area women in their upper 70s and beyond in order to provide inspiration for viewers of all ages.  While some cultures revere elders’ wisdom, ours tends not to do so.  This exhibit honors and celebrates these experienced women, breaks stereotypes and provides the viewer with suggestions on how to keep finding joy, connection and purpose despite the challenges and losses that may come with aging.  

     Each of these women provided a past photo to help tell her story.  As you will see, some of the images are tattered by years in an old wallet or adhesive photo album making the keepsake even sweeter by illustrating the passage of time.   We also worked together to create a present-day portrait.  I had the privilege of chatting with each woman and chose an excerpt from our conversation to include with the photos.  Some segments of our interview were taped and additional excerpts may be available in the virtual gallery. (Click "Back to Gallery" to view each woman.)

     These women shared what has helped them lead meaningful lives including volunteering, advocating, writing, working, learning, teaching, traveling, creating, physical activity, humor, gratitude, faith, patience, self-kindness, hope, pleasure, positivity, problem solving  and connecting with others. I am forever grateful for their time and willingness to share their perspectives on living life.               

                                 - Cathy Lander-Goldberg

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