One of the things that Italy has become known for in recent years is that the population of the elderly is increasing. You don’t have to read statistics to realize the truth in that. You can see it on the streets, in the smaller towns and in residential areas in the bigger cities.

Whether it be a positive phenomenon or not, aside from all the economic and sociocultural implications, I’ve always found it to be one of the more charming traits of this country. The elderly are an unlimited wealth of knowledge and experience. They can also teach us the things that most often we don’t want to learn.

This portrait was inspired by two 100 year-olds I was proud to be acquainted with, nonno Donato who died 3 months ago at 102, and his brother Rocco who died last year at 99.

You are missed.