There is a sort of natural beauty in the aging process: how our skin wrinkles when we smile too much or how our memory fades yet our understanding of the world is exponentially greater than before. As life passes by it leaves a trail of belongings: family pictures, old pots and pans, three large melons…?

After receiving a call from my mother regarding the declining health of my oldest aunt, I decided that I wanted to bring my camera and document our next visit. I could not believe I hadn’t taken her picture properly before, so I got to work. 

Growing up in the same home as my grandparents has given me an incredibly strong and unique relationship with them. As the somewhat “leaders” of a gigantic Italian family, there is a lot of tradition and pride surrounding their grandchildren. My Grandfather (who, it is important to note, refused to have his portrait taken because he fears of its never-ending life on the internet), has an older sister named Angelina. Angelina was my Grandma June’s middle school teacher, and they have become each other's closest companions. Angelina and June are the matriarchs of my family, and their strength and unconditional love have formed who I am today. 

These images aim to capture the warmth of my family’s matriarchs and their eclectic homes as a reflection of their life, well-lived.

2022