On October 8, we had the privilege of launching A Idade Importa at the Biblioteca Camões in Lisbon. Today, I want to take you behind the scenes of the setup for this deeply meaningful exhibition, sharing some of the unseen moments that shaped the installation and brought it to life.

The Vision Behind A Idade Importa

This exhibition features 20 impactful portraits that capture the lives, stories, and resilience of Portugal’s elderly population. Each image dives into themes of aging, loneliness, and mental health, shedding light on the depth of experience carried by Portugal’s older generations. This project, for me, was not just about photography; it was about storytelling, respect, and recognition for a generation often overlooked but brimming with valuable stories and memories.

The Setup: Bringing a Vision to Life

Preparing an exhibition of this scale is both exciting and challenging. From planning the flow of each piece to ensuring every detail aligns with the narrative, the process demanded countless hours and dedication from everyone involved. The setup involved meticulous planning for the arrangement and lighting of each image, as every portrait deserved a presentation that honored its subject’s story. With the help of my fantastic team, including @spherik.production, each frame found its place, contributing to the exhibition’s immersive atmosphere.

A Tribute You Can Experience

For those who haven’t visited yet, A Idade Importa will be open until November 11,  2024, at Biblioteca Camões. I invite you all to experience these visual tributes firsthand, a collective homage to the wisdom and stories of Portugal’s elderly.

📅 Inauguration: October 8, 2024
📍 Location: Biblioteca Camões, Largo do Calhariz, 17 – 1º andar, Lisbon

Thank you to everyone who contributed to making this exhibition a reality. Your support brings this meaningful tribute to life, giving a voice to stories that matter.

Preparing the Exhibition: The Journey

Bringing A Idade Importa to life was a journey that required balancing both the technical and emotional aspects of photography and exhibition-making. Here are the steps I took to ensure the exhibition resonated with each visitor and honored the stories of the elderly subjects portrayed.

1. Theme Definition: The heart of A Idade Importa centers on honoring the elderly, highlighting their memories, solitude, and inner strength. Establishing this theme early on informed every choice we made, from the lighting setup to the sequence of the photos.
2. Location Selection: I chose Biblioteca Camões for its intimate yet accessible atmosphere. This space allowed the subjects of each portrait to feel present and welcomed, surrounded by Lisbon’s cultural essence, and it held a special connection to my subjects.
3. Curating and Editing: With the guidance of trusted collaborators, I selected the strongest images to convey my intended message. Each portrait was carefully edited to capture the dignity and depth of the subjects, presenting their stories with respect and authenticity.
4. Installation Challenges: From sourcing frames that matched the tone of the project to aligning every piece just right, the setup was a logistical feat. Adjustments in lighting and positioning were frequent, as we wanted each piece to connect with the viewer emotionally.
5. Final Walkthrough: Before opening, I did a final walkthrough to ensure each detail, including signage and spacing, supported the narrative.

10 Tips on How to Set Up an Exhibition

1. Define Your Vision: Clarify your exhibition’s theme and message; this will be your guiding light in every decision.
2. Choose the Right Venue: Match your space to the tone of your work. Look for places that align with the subject matter to add depth and resonance.
3. Curate Thoughtfully: Less can be more. Select works that best represent the story, creating a cohesive and impactful experience.
4. Plan the Layout: Take time to arrange your pieces. Consider the flow of visitors and the emotional journey you want them to experience.
5. Use Lighting Strategically: Lighting can elevate the mood, direct attention, and enhance the visual impact. Adjust until each piece is well-lit but not overexposed.
6. Incorporate Descriptions: Share the context behind each piece. Labels or short descriptions can guide viewers into a deeper understanding of your work.
7. Pay Attention to Details: From the frames to the wall color, small elements make a big difference in creating a professional look.
8. Test the Setup: Walk through the space with fresh eyes. Bring someone who can provide objective feedback and catch small issues you may have missed.
9. Create a Welcoming Entrance: First impressions matter. Make sure the entrance gives visitors a sense of what lies ahead.
10. Document the Process: Capture behind-the-scenes moments. Not only does this help with promotion, but it also preserves the hard work put into the exhibition for future reflection.

Setting up A Idade Importa was a labor of love, an experience I’m thrilled to share with everyone who walks through Biblioteca Camões. I hope these insights help anyone looking to create an impactful exhibition.