A millennium of memories
Ten of the 12 individuals in the Beyond the Face exhibition, pictured with writer Fiona Terry on the far right and photographer Tim Cuff second left (standing) far left. Photo: Kate Russell.
Writing has always been a passion for 89-year-old Wolfgang Passl – fictional, scientific, and now in retirement, short stories.
The Austrian-born Stillwater Gardens resident loves to write for others and has also travelled most of the world – apart from Antarctica, he says.
Wolfgang’s fascinating life story is one of 12 featured in ‘Beyond the Face’, the Age Concern Nelson Tasman exhibition which began last week at Founders Heritage Park.
The exhibition, now in its fourth year, celebrates older adults by showcasing their lives, experiences, skills, and wisdom. Between the 12 individuals, they have more than 1000 years of life experience.
Portrait photographs by Tim Cuff are accompanied by a short life story write-up by Fiona Terry.
This year’s line-up includes kaumātua Harvey Ruru, a former refugee from Chin state, a Latvian woman who escaped her homeland from the German invasion and went on to become a doctor, and a former pianist who helped Holly Hunter with her piano playing for the movie The Piano.
You will also learn about a man who took his first Open University course at the age of 73 and, in the ten years since, has completed more than 30 diplomas.
A swimming stalwart, a man who has had a fascinating life in the freight and transport industry, a GP who has worked around the world and others, are also sharing their stories.
The exhibition is on now until 4 May at The Granary at Founders Heritage Park before it moves to the Richmond Library. It has been supported by Nelson City Council as part of Tuku 25.