Wise Women

In ancient times older women were the keepers of primal mysteries and were revered for their special wisdom. Today our culture is reawakening to the power of our elders and there is a new interest in this important part of the life cycle. For this book, Joyce Tenneson travelled throughout America to photograph and interview women aged 65 to 100. She found women who were vital, energetic and beautiful inside and out. Many confided in her that they had never been happier or as in touch with their inner self. The 80 portraits presented in the book are of women from all walks of life, from the famous, such as Sandra Day O’Connor, Julie Harris, Lily Tomlin, Jessica Tandy, Lauren Bacall and Angela Lansbury, to the familiar – mothers and grandmothers. Tenneson’s portraits are each accompanied by short, poignant statements by these women about their experience of ageing.

Author Biography

Joyce Tenneson is one of the most celebrated photographers of our time. She is the author of six books, including Light Warriors (Bulfinch, 2000), and her work has appeared in countless publications. Tenneson has had more than 150 exhibits in galleries and museums worldwide, and she is a respected lecturer and speaker. She lives and works in New York City.