Ageing can be a glorious process filled with creativity and connection, a new exhibition shows.
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"I think you have to have something," Margaret Wallace of Kalaru said.
"It might be gardening, it might be music, any of them.
"It's just so important to have a passion. It just seems to keep you going, and give you something to aim for for the future."
The 76-year-old textile artist is one of the subjects in the Art of Ageing, a photographic exhibition that opened at the Spiral Gallery in Bega on Friday.
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The touring exhibition comprises 30 images taken by five photographers from regional NSW. Each photograph is accompanied by a short story highlighting the subject's experiences and reflections on ageing.
It includes six photographs of Bega Valley locals, taken by Merimbula photographer Angi High.
Ms High said during the two to three month process of shooting the photographs she learnt when people in the older generations retire, they still keep themselves busy.
"Whether it's arts or crafts, they're very inspiring people I have to say," she said.
Another of her subjects for the exhibition was Aunty Shirley Foster, who was born in Bega, grew up in Victoria and has now lived at Wallaga Lake for over 50 years.
What kept her going through the years was her grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.
"Family is very important, that's what I tell them," the 84-year-old said.
Another way she keeps herself going is by attending a lot of meetings.
"I think I get a lot of energy out it of, talking to other people and meeting up with old friends," Ms Foster said.
Another one of Ms High's subjects was David Stocker of Bega who said when it came to ageing gracefully a lot took care of itself, but it was important to keep in mind acceptance, gratitude, living in the moment and love.
"Anyone I've seen who is really happy or content seems to have a spiritual dimension in their life," the 69-year-old said.
The Art of Ageing is at Spiral Gallery, 47 Church St, Bega and runs to May 22.
Albert McKnight
Journalist at Bega District News.
Journalist at Bega District News.
