In My Prime: Celebrating Older Women

In My Prime is a joint project by Women’s Health Victoria (WHV) and the University of Melbourne which aims to celebrate the strength and diversity of older women. The project was supported by the Victorian Government with a $10,000 grant through the Investing in Women Grassroots Grant Program, awarded in June 2023.

Gendered ageism means as women and trans and gender diverse people age, their contribution to our communities and health and wellbeing needs are increasingly overlooked. Positive portrayals of this group are almost impossible to find. Lack of affirming representation and accessible health information contribute to worsening health, including poor body image, poor mental health, low self-confidence and social isolation.

In My Prime brings together artistic celebrations of older women’s bodies with the In My Prime website, a health and wellbeing information resource for women and trans and gender diverse people over 50. 

The exhibition showcases 30 nude photographs of women over 50, inclusive of trans and gender diverse people, taken by Melbourne photographers Ponch Hawkes and Jodie Hutchinson. Photographs are displayed alongside quotes from participants.

The project’s website is co-designed with the community it serves. The information it provides is evidence-based, age-relevant and empowering, and aims to address societal barriers which deny older women dignity and good health.

The exhibition opened on 7 September and will run until 29 September.