Lionel Wilson - Juniper
Wise - The voice of older Western Australians

Lionel Wilson

Watch below as Lionel, one of the stars of Wise – The voice of older Western Australians exhibition, chats with award-winning photographer Steve Wise about his life, views and what happiness means to him, ultimately leading to the emotional reveal of his portrait. Lionel’s images were captured on a 1960’s Linhof Colour 4×5 camera using large format film.

““Living life well is sitting around with people, talking to them, conversations going back and forward – back to things you’ve done, it helps you feel connected.”

– Lionel Wilson, 90 years, Juniper Residential Aged Care customer

Meet Lionel

 

Positive, easygoing and active, Lionel has employed these enviable traits across the decades to live a fulfilling life.

After moving to this “beaut country” from India at age 19, Lionel turned his hand to a mix of roles from railway fireman to fitter’s mate and later, a bus driver.

You will find him up at 5am, keeping a good pace with his walker and interacting with others, as it’s imperative for Lionel to keep the mind occupied.

Family has remained a big importance, and looking ahead, Lionel is intent on seeing what his beloved grandchildren can achieve.