16 photographic portraits and life stories of people over 80 reveal wisdom, capturing what a long life can do to people. Growing old also means being flexible, continuing to develop yourself, dealing with change, occasional setbacks, and also accepting yourself as you are. How did these elderly people cope with the major and minor events in their long lives? What gave them strength? And are they wise? This exhibition is on view at photo gallery De Gang in Haarlem.
Look at the seniors in our society from a different perspective
Older people often face 'seniorism,' including age discrimination. In the media, the negative aspects of old age dominate, or older people are portrayed as 'eternally young.' In WIJS!, older people have their say. The photographs by Ilvy Njiokiktjien contribute to a positive and multifaceted picture of what life is like as someone over 80.
At the initiative of the Biblical Museum
In WIJS! – an initiative of the Biblical Museum – Ilvy attempts to make wisdom visible, to capture what a long life can do to people. For those portrayed, growing old means above all being flexible and continuing to develop oneself, seeing what is still possible and enjoying it, dealing with change, occasional setbacks, and also accepting oneself as one is. How did the elderly cope with the major and minor events in their long lives? What gave them strength? And are they wise? Decide for yourself after reading their stories. One thing is certain: their resilience and self-insight will inspire.
SHOW! Photography by Ilvy Njiokiktjien is an initiative of the Biblical Museum. The exhibition was previously on display at OBA Oosterdok, Amsterdam, and after photo gallery De Gang, travels to the Museum of the Mind, Haarlem, and the Stadhuismuseum Zierikzee.
