The Centenarian Portrait Project by Teenagers is an uplifting intergenerational initiative, matching local teenage artists with our most senior citizens. 

 

Each portrait tells the unique story of the centenarian, captured by the artist in their individual interpretation and artistic style. From reminiscing, joy and laughter, comes a collection of portraits that communicate the experiences, memories and life history of our most senior citizens.

 

This project aims to foster connections between the two generations, celebrating the rich histories and experiences of the centenarians while providing young artists with a unique opportunity to engage with and learn from their elders. The process involves the pairs meeting over a four month period, which allows them to capture the essence of their subjects in their artwork.

 

In 2018 100 centenarians and 100 teenagers participated in this program, across 60 suburbs of Sydney. The project culminated in an exhibition, presenting 100 portraits of 100-year-olds, which opened on the International Day of Older Persons (October 1, 2018).