The Couch

My neighbour, a spirited elderly woman, was fiercely independent, still doing her son’s washing and ironing. Her home reflected her pride, filled with neatly arranged family photos. However, after she fell and broke her hip, her family moved her into aged care despite her wishes to stay at home. Seeing her once-pristine couch abandoned on the nature strip was just the saddest thing. This couch had witnessed countless conversations, shared memories, cuddles and ‘cuppas.’ Its solitary and forlorn presence symbolised the upheaval in her life and the abandonment she must have felt.

Driven by a sense of empathy and a desire to capture the essence of Lorraine’s struggle, I felt compelled to document the couch. It represented more than just a piece of furniture – it embodied the warmth of home, the bonds of family, and the profound impact of aging and loss.

Through this project, I honour her story and shed light on the challenges faced by many elderly individuals in our society. I hope to evoke a sense of compassion and understanding, prompting reflection on the importance of empathy.

Lorraine’s couch became the first of 108 couches, each with its unique story, contributing to a rich tapestry of human experiences and emotions.

This diverse array of couches serves as a metaphorical journey toward wholeness and understanding, inviting reflection on the interconnectedness of existence.

Captured on a phone, these couches, each a serendipitous gift from the universe, whether weathered or pristine, symbolise connections and invite contemplation of aging, home, and human relationships.
Through simplicity, the images reflect the intangible qualities that make these couches symbols of comfort and shared humanity.