While the last 100 years of our world’s history has seen its fair share of ups, downs, successes, hardships, triumphs, and falters, few have had the opportunity to say that they have lived, experienced, and enjoyed each and every day for an entire century. It’s a rare sight in this day and age to see a centenarian, continuing to live life to the fullest, both beautifully and gracefully – a sight that German photographer Karsten Thormaehlen intended to capture for lifetimes to come in his project entitled Jahrhundertmensch.
Thormaehlen, through the art of the portrait, has captured the faces of those who have witnessed two World Wars, political upheavals in Germany, and the fall of the Berlin Wall – and while their bodies have undergone a transformation through the natural cycles of life, their minds remain sharp and their souls remain clear. In addition, the beauty that resonates within the portraits represents the fact that human beings will withstand the test of time, thanks to the inspiring works of Karsten Thormaehlen. Take a look:
The following images were used with Karsten Thormaehlen’s permission:
More of Thormaehlen’s work can be viewed on his website (click here), while more information in a paperback version of this series can be found HERE, or ordered directly from Thormaehlen himself via email at kt@karstenthormaehlen.com.
Images Courtesy of: Karsten Thormaehlen
Wonderful portraits …. so much life experience to read into their faces.
Indeed Brad – so much history, it’s amazing to think.