Posted on Mar 26, 2015

Exploring the Beauty of Aging in Seoul: Design meets Photography

In the bustling heart of Seoul, South Korea, the Beauty of Aging (그대로) project challenges the conventional notion of ageing. Initiated with a simple yet profound question – “Is aging a sad thing?” – this project delves into the lives of the elderly. It portrays them not just as ‘elderly’, but as individuals with stories, experiences, and beauty that transcends time.

The Essence of Beauty of Aging

The brainchild of graphic designer Shin In-ah and editor Maeng Sunho, Beauty of Aging seeks to bridge the gap between generations. It’s not merely about capturing images of the elderly. It’s about creating a platform where the young and old can meet, understand, and engage in meaningful conversations. This project aims to showcase the richness that comes with age and challenge societal perceptions.

Issue “0” – A Glimpse into Timeless Beauty

The images featured in this blog are from the inaugural issue “0” of the magazine. Through the lens of award-winning photographer Nils Clauss, Beauty of Aging captures the essence of aging with honesty and dignity. Each photograph tells a story, portraying the subjects not as mere subjects of a photo shoot but as individuals with a lifetime of experiences etched on their faces.

Shin In-ah: Shaping Perspectives Through Design

Adding another layer to the project is graphic designer Shin In-ah. Born in 1985 in Suncheon, she is not just a designer but a writer and co-founder of the Feminist Designer Social Club. Her academic journey, marked by a double degree in visual communication and international studies from the University of Technology Sydney, reflects her commitment to diverse perspectives. During this time, she also spent a transformative year at Politecnico di Milano.

Connecting Generations Through Art

The Beauty of Aging project challenges preconceived notions about beauty, commercialism, and documentary photography. It’s not just about capturing images; it’s a cultural dialogue that encourages understanding and empathy between generations. In a society obsessed with youth, this project shines a light on the often-overlooked beauty that comes with age.

Capturing the Beauty in Every Wrinkle

Nils Clauss’s lens captures the wrinkles, the laughter lines, and the wisdom etched on the faces of the elderly. Each photograph is a testament to the Beauty of Aging project’s mission – to present aging not as a decline but as a journey enriched with experiences and stories.

Exploring Further: View Additional Images

To delve deeper into the Beauty of Ageing project, follow this link to explore more captivating images and narratives. Witness the beauty that lies in the wrinkles, the grace in the aging hands, and the stories that unfold in every frame.