This portrait series is all about love, isolation, aging and not ultimately the effects of the pandemic on the life of the most vulnerable. Tina and Antonio’s story deserves to be told and heard precisely because daily life and routines is all they have now. The old couple doesn’t leave home since the Italian lockdown in March 2020, and is not willing to do it. This project sheds some light on the existence of a couple whose story would most probably be forget.
There is nothing as powerful as the dedication of two souls that have committed to live a life together. No matter what they felt when they got married for the first time over 60 years ago. From the flame of a trembling love, they built up home, family, and a future for their children. That home they have made many years ago has now become their entire world.
Antonio (90) and Tina (86) don't leave their nest of prayers, memories, and little ordinary rituals since March 2020, when the first sanitary emergency was declared in Italy due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For over two years, not even a tiny single step outside. During the lockdown, Tina’s already severe form of deforming arthrosis has become more serious, worsened by the impossibility of moving, walking and stretching around for a prolonged period of time. When depressed by fatigue, joint deformity and pain in the bones, her “Tonino” (diminutive of Antonio) is right there at her side. Almost sightless and blind, Antonio is Tina’s strength and solidity, while she is his eyes and sharpness. Together they are one and all they need is in that four-walled nest of faith and devotion.