"We people over 60 went through the lack of freedom and the lack of education in an open and relaxed atmosphere. Now we find ourselves in a situation in which the “closet” can open its door again. I have a wife, but if one day I must go to a retirement home, would I have the freedom to express my emotional life there?"
Paulina (lesbian and married)
The stereotype of a gay is that of a young, high-income person whose sex life plays a central role in defining identity. In parallel, sexuality among the elderly is a taboo subject and heterosexuality is taken for granted: elderly gays do not exist.
These stereotypes persist in many countries, including in Spain, whose law recognizes gay rights and is one of the most advanced in Europe. Reaching old age, LGBT people disappear from the collective imagination and become invisible.
Flores de otoño (Autumn Flowers) is an audiovisual project that combines still photography with spoken testimonies and sound image from the life of the protagonists. It is a narrative in which LGBT people share their stories and the fears they face in the autumn of their lives. Against stereotypes, the project invites reflection over realities close at hand but often ignored.
Realization:
Hanna Jarzabek: Production, Direction & Photography
Savvas Salpistís: Sound
with the support of:
XI Fotografía i Societat Grant, Barcelona - Center Civic Jardins de la Pau (El Llobregat /Barcelona)
Unzip Arts Visuals El Llobregat & El llobregat City Hall
Barcelona City Hall