A state of mind
SILVER: A State of Mind
Aging is a loaded word, perhaps more so for women, regardless of their age. Some thoroughly embrace
the process while others fight it tooth and nail. But from whichever camp, there is a lot of active thinking
happening today about what that process implies.
The women interviewed and photographed here possess one of the most distinctive outward signs of aging—silvering hair. This shared badge provides an ideal entry into the topic of aging as dilemmas about gray hair lead to other deeper
issues about the kinds of personal challenges we all face. The women speak on many themes, from society's views
on aging and feminism to attitudes in the work place, authenticity, and more.
These photographs aim to capture a sensibility, a spark of energy, the intelligence and beauty conveyed in a glance.
Many of the women seem as if they are about to speak, maybe even to address the very questions you may ask of yourself.
THE WOMEN'S WORDS
When did you first realize or acknowledge that you were aging?
Was there a particular experience, a certain point in time, or was it perhaps a gradual transition?
These are some of the questions posed to the women portrayed. Their responses vary but all address the issue of the passage of time and common cultural stereotypes about growing older. Both in their portraits and their words these women defy the notion that we lose our female beauty / identity when our hair turns gray or other signs of aging appear.
They speak about the process of becoming older, their reactions to nature's changes, and their ambitions for the future
in revealing and often surprising ways. On the following pages you can read some of their comments on these various topics.
What are your own thoughts about life’s natural progression? Would you care to join in this discussion?
To leave your comments, observations and your own story, please click REMARKS. Thank you.