Death is a part of living,
but a fear of many
‘Death is a part of living but a fear of many’ is a self-initiated project and residency in the photographer’s grandmothers care home, Ash Lodge, Smethwick. Over weekly visits, documentary photographer Honor Smith captured life in the care home whilst recording conversations with nurses and staff members as a way of sharing their experiences working with residents nearing the end of their lives.
The project came about through the photographer’s own need to overcome fear of loss and grief visiting her grandmother. From personal experience, she sympathises with the anxiety that can come with leaving a loved one in an unfamiliar environment, however the work and care she experienced over the course of the residency provided a new perspective.
Whilst understanding the importance of an ethical approach and the nature of the workplace, Smith offers a broad and visually rich insight within Ash Lodge of staff and residents, all of whom are bonded by the natural course of life.
The exhibition alongside the book invites the audience to reflect on their own thoughts and feelings towards care homes and the ageing and dying process. It encourages you to face these topics and consider; What do you think about care homes? Have you ever been to one? What was your experience like? Does the thought of care scare you? How would you feel about living in a care home one day?
I could be in the worst, nastiest mood. I could wake up on the wrong side of the bed. But the moment I go into someone’s room… I could be the last person they ever see. I could be the last person they have a conversation with. You give them a shower and that could be the last shower they will ever have. You just don’t know. So I will always go in with a smile on my face.
Amber, Carer
People think that care is coming in, having a cup of tea, having a chat. They think it doesn’t involve everything from washing, dressing… we get hurt too sometimes. I think people think it’s like a prison. And people come here to die. But that’s not it.
Chris, Care Co-ordinator
Death is the most pleasant part of it. You wouldn’t think it… it is the most pleasant part. We guide them through that journey. When it’s coming towards the end, and they die with dignity, and they die pain free... what more could anyone want? When they do pass, it’s a relief. In my eyes it’s not a sad moment. They’ve lived their life, they’ve gone through traumas, the pain, they’ve seen death themselves and so to give them a pain free death…it’s amazing.
Helen, Manager
