Published in issue #2 2024, Human Narratives

‍

This series explores life through the eyes of my grandmother, Ruth (1934-2021). Ageing brings challenges. People who once had a social life may be unable to participate actively in the world anymore, becoming shut-ins.

‍

This series celebrates those people and the lives they lived and still do. Ruth says: “My husband and I built this house. It’s been my home for approximately fifty-five years. Very few of the original owners are still living in the neighbourhood. I’m isolated because there are not many houses around me, and my neighbour recently passed away. That house is now empty. I like living in my home because it’s spacious and mine. I have chosen to live downstairs to make it easier, but I feel comfortable even though I’m here by myself. I feel very safe. I look forward to getting out on Sundays for church. When I had a car, I was able to get out more, and I do miss that independence. There are so many memories in this house. My husband and I used to play jazz music and dance around the living room at night. Sometimes, I get lonesome being here alone. I enjoy spending time meditating and listening to music. The television and my computer keep me company as well. I play the piano all the time, and sometimes I arrange music. I have been playing the piano since I was eight. Playing music is good therapy, and it keeps my fingers exercised. I am eighty-three years young.”

‍

About

Kyra Johnson Manyik is an interdisciplinary artist working primarily in the medium of photography. A natural storyteller, her artwork often explores our relationships with the natural world and each other. Her work is driven by her desire to understand and connect with others more deeply. Drawing inspiration from artists such as William Eggleston, Gordon Parks, and Taryn Simon, she strives to create art that elevates mundane, overlooked moments, the marginalised and ignored. She hopes people will leave her pieces feeling challenged and have a deeper understanding of another. She received her Bachelor of Arts from Ball State University.

‍

www.kyrajohnsonart.com