A Life Lived

This deeply personal project emerged as a means of processing grief during my Mum’s 15-year battle with Alzheimer’s. In her mind, she exists as a young girl on a farm in rural New Zealand, where the lines between time and space have blurred. Although she no longer recognises her home of 25 years, it remains her sanctuary. She often voices her longing for her Granny, expressing a need to return before dark.

Her husband, Neville, 93, is dedicated to caring for her at home, where she finds joy and clarity. My moments with her are precious; despite her memory loss, our connection runs deep. Living in the present allows both her creativity and mine to flourish amidst our shared happiness.

In early 2023, Mum moves into permanent care, marking a difficult transition. To remain close to her, I explore her home, discovering treasures that reflect her curiosity and love for nature. Each item tells a story, transforming the mundane into the extraordinary. I set up a makeshift studio in the garage to photograph these artefacts, feeling an invisible thread connecting us through her artistry and my own creative pursuits.