How do older adults experience intimacy? While media often showcases youthful passion, it tends to overlook or trivialize the romantic lives of seniors. Artist Marilyn Minter sought to change this narrative by photographing men and women aged 70 and above in her New York studio, capturing a side of intimacy rarely seen. Her vibrant images feature seniors in lingerie or briefs, embracing and sharing tender moments, challenging societal taboos and highlighting the joy of connection.
“There’s so much disdain for elder intimacy,” Minter noted during a video call. “One model even questioned who would want to see such images.” Her goal was to portray older individuals as both elegant and desirable, a pioneering effort in a society that often ignores this demographic.
Some of these images were initially published in the New York Times Magazine alongside an article on seniors’ sex lives. Minter is now releasing the complete series in her new book, "Elder Sex," and showcasing them in a solo exhibition at New York's LGDR gallery. This exhibition marks her first solo show in the city since 2016 and includes highlights from her extensive career.
In "Elder Sex," Minter employs her signature style of jewel-toned, close-up images, creating a steamy effect by photographing through frosted glass. Despite her reputation as a groundbreaking artist, finding real couples willing to participate proved challenging. Minter, who is 74, reached out to friends in various types of relationships, but few agreed to be photographed. Ultimately, she cast actors alongside the willing participants, capturing them in intimate poses.
The models, some as old as 89, shared that they still enjoy fulfilling sex lives, echoing sentiments from the New York Times Magazine article about deepening intimacy and adapting to aging bodies. Minter believes that later-life intimacy offers a unique freedom, free from the performative pressures of youth.
“When you’re young, sex can feel like a performance,” she explained. “But at 80, it’s about self-acceptance and enjoyment without pretense.”
Minter acknowledges the challenges women face regarding sexuality and self-image, noting that older women are often overlooked, while younger women face scrutiny over their sexual agency. However, she sees progress in how desirability is portrayed in media, citing the evolution of characters from shows like "The Golden Girls" to "Sex and the City."
Reflecting on these changes, Minter remarked, “People are living longer and healthier lives, and cultural attitudes are shifting.” She hopes "Elder Sex" will serve as a visual testament to the richness of later-life intimacy and encourage those who feel ashamed of their desires to embrace them.
"Elder Sex," published by JBE Books, is now available.