SUZANNE ELISE

Suzanne Elise originates from Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina. She is currently enrolled at The University of South Carolina and earning a BFA in Studio Art with a concentration in Photography. Her interest in fine art photography extends into contemporary and documentary photography. Suzanne aspires to aid others and the environment through her image making.

Maw Maw, Front Bedroom

Maw Maw, Front Bedroom

Maw Maw's Bedroom

Maw Maw’s Bedroom

Subsisters

Following the death of my paternal grandmother, I was struck with the realization that all I had left were memories and stories passed down from my father and his sisters. Feeling a lack of tangible, personal memories with my aging relatives, I began to devote more time to making deeper connections with my maternal grandmother and five great aunts. All six women are between the ages of 82 and 94, are widowed, and live in relative isolation due to their personal losses and progressive health issues.

Maw Maw's Back Porch

Maw Maw’s Back Porch

Great Aunt Lucy's Kitchen

Great Aunt Lucy’s Kitchen

While photographing and spending time with these women over the past several months, I learned about the importance of independence and handling loss. Over the past few years, mourning has been a stage of their lives but it has not affected their demeanor. Facing challenges such as the Great Depression and WWII produced strong, independent spirits. An unshakeable, steadfast faith is at the core of their being and serves them well in this challenging time in their lives.

Great Aunt Emma's Sitting Room

Great Aunt Emma’s Sitting Room

Sis, Dining Room

Sis, Dining Room

Maw Maw's Living Room

Maw Maw’s Living Room

Great Aunt Betty's Sitting Room

Great Aunt Betty’s Sitting Room

Great Aunt Eva, Kitchen

Great Aunt Eva, Kitchen

Sis, Living Room

Sis, Living Room

Great Aunt Eva's Kitchen

Great Aunt Eva’s Kitchen

Great Aunt Eva, Living Room

Great Aunt Eva, Living Room

Sis' Living Room

Sis’ Living Room

Great Aunt Lucy, Back Living Room

Great Aunt Lucy, Back Living Room

To view more of Suzanne’s work please visit her website.