German photographer Karsten Thormaehlen has created a stunning photo book featuring portraits of 50 centenarians from around the world, showcasing the wisdom, strength, and beauty that comes with reaching 100 years of age. The collection, titled "100 Years of Life's Happiness," presents intimate and dignified portraits of men and women who have lived through four generations and witnessed dramatic changes across the globe.
Among the remarkable subjects is Digna Obanda Amaya, a 100-year-old woman from Costa Rica's Nicoya Peninsula on the country's west coast. This region is renowned not only for its stunning natural beauty but also as one of the world's "Blue Zones" where people tend to live exceptionally long lives. When asked about her secret to longevity, Amaya offers simple yet profound advice: "Love yourself!" She also recommends having "a small glass daily at lunch," referring to her habit of enjoying a modest amount of alcohol with her midday meal.
Thormaehlen's photographic journey took him to diverse locations across the globe, including Sardinia, Romania, Japan, Costa Rica, Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. His reduced, personal approach to photography captures not just the physical appearance of his subjects, but also reveals the depth of their life experiences. The portraits are accompanied by personal stories where these centenarians share their insights about love, health, and living a fulfilling life, often with remarkable humor and warmth.
The project serves as both a tribute to life itself and a powerful argument for aging with dignity. Thormaehlen's work specifically aims to challenge society's perceptions about aging while addressing the implications of increased life expectancy and the social changes that come with it. One compelling example from the collection shows Jesus Davila celebrating her 100th birthday by dancing with her son in the rural town of Belen in Costa Rica's Carrillo district, embodying the local "pura vida" philosophy that roughly translates to "pure life" or "take it easy."
Thormaehlen's photography has gained international recognition and numerous prestigious awards, including the Cannes Lions (Press Lions) and Gold at the ADC Festival. He has been nominated for the German Age Award by the Robert Bosch Foundation and has received the Portrait of Humanity Award four times. His impactful work has even been utilized by the World Health Organization for campaigns against age discrimination, demonstrating the broader social significance of his artistic vision.
The book "100 Years of Life's Happiness" is now available through Knesebeck Verlag, offering readers an opportunity to witness the extraordinary lives and wisdom of those who have reached the remarkable milestone of living a full century. Through these portraits, Thormaehlen creates a visual celebration of longevity while encouraging a more positive and respectful view of aging in our society.
