‘Brave’ Exhibition Celebrates Local Women Over 40

          Orleans portrait photographer Sandra Costello honors local women over the age of 40 in an exhibit of her work titled “Brave: 40 Women Over 40 – Life On Their Terms” at the Cultural Center of Cape Cod in South Yarmouth, with a closing reception on Saturday, Nov. 16 from 5 to 7 p.m. 
           The portraits that make up the exhibit, featuring women ranging in age from 42 to 84, capture their subjects’ strength, wisdom and individuality, encouraging viewers to see the women as the fabulous, resilient and empowered individuals they are. Each portrait is accompanied by personal insights, as the women featured reflect on their lives, accomplishments, and the unique paths they have forged. The stories bring depth to the images, enabling viewers to connect with the joys, challenges and aspirations that have shaped these women.
          Among the women whose portraits and statements are included in “Brave” are Phyllis Nickerson Power, 74, and Mimi Laquerre, 54, both of Chatham; Andrea Marie Bunar, 56, Meg Willis, 44, and Claire Chiarello, 84, all of Harwich; and Judi Moldstad, 63, of Brewster.
            Costello said as someone in her 50s, she thinks there is a lot which resonates with women as they approach the midpoint of their lives. 
           “So I decided to create 40 portraits of women over 40,” Costello said. “I began telling women about it through networking groups, events and word of mouth.”
 It wasn’t long before all 40 portraits were created. 
           “I feel we all have a story to tell, and we all contribute in one way or another,” Costello said. “These women were brave enough to share stories we might not otherwise hear from them. For many it felt like bravery because they never had their photo taken before, and bravery to say yes, I am worthy of this, let me share with you some of the things I have learned in my lifetime.” 
           Costello added that her greatest hope is that those who attend the reception will meet and speak with the women in the photos who will be in attendance. 
 “It’s very easy for us, especially these days, to have ideas of who people are without getting to know them,” Costello said. “I guess we humans often are afraid to approach each other, but there is so much to learn. We don't realize how many incredible people are all around us.” 
           The Cultural Center of Cape Cod is located at 307 Old Main St. in South Yarmouth. For more information about Costello visit sandralovesyou.com or call 413-427-1676.