{"id":5537,"date":"2019-03-28T17:59:22","date_gmt":"2019-03-28T17:59:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/womentales.wpengine.com\/?p=5537"},"modified":"2021-11-29T19:46:01","modified_gmt":"2021-11-29T19:46:01","slug":"sisters-took-40-photos-for-40-years","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/sisters-took-40-photos-for-40-years\/","title":{"rendered":"These Sisters took the Same Photo for 40 years Every Year"},"content":{"rendered":"

I am a firm believer that if you have a sister, you are already blessed with a true best friend. Sisters share such a heartwarming bond that it is unlike any other. These four sisters mesmerizingly took a series of pictures over four decades which documented their life journey. Let us look through their insightful journey through the decades.<\/p>\n

1. Summer 1975<\/h2>\n
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Source: deluxetoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The journey began in the summer of 1975 when Nicholas Nixon paid a visit to his wife’s family. He urged the sisters to pose for a photograph and was sceptical if they would oblige. Heather, Mimi, Laurie and BeBe all gathered in the same order as they did during four decades.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

2. Hartford 1976<\/h2>\n
\"\"
Source: deluxetoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The sisters lined up for a relaxed photo in Hartford during a sunny day in summer. They are all clad in dresses and are sharing the same relaxed posture for the camera. You can see hope for the future in their eyes as they look confidently strike a pose unitedly.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

3. Cambridge Massachusetts 1977<\/h2>\n
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Source: deluxetoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Exactly a year later, something has definitely changed about them. They are still oozing off confidence but they are no longer as carefree as they used to be only a year ago. They also ditched their dresses and their outfit now speaks of the changes in them.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

4. Harwich Port, Massachusetts 1978<\/h2>\n
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Source: delexutoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

As another year passed by, their happiness seems to have evaporated even more. This shot, differing from the previous ones, is more of a close up shot and permits the viewers a closer look at their faces. Their foreheads are adorned with frown lines and they seem pensive about the challenges that lie ahead.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

5. Marblehead, Massachusetts 1979<\/h2>\n
\"\"
Source: deluxetoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Each sister finally started showing traits of their own personalities. Their choice of outfits are also enormously different now. While one chooses a more formal approach, another opts for trousers. As one of the sisters is holding a relaxed posture , the other is firmly holding her arms close to her body. We wonder what was going on their uniquely individual minds.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

6. East Greenwich, Rhode Island 1980<\/h2>\n
\"\"
Source: deluxetoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The sisters\u2019 heartwarming bonds are clearly visible in this photo for the world to witness. They are warmly embracing each other, maybe trying to testify their closeness still. The solemn vibes have been taken over by shy smiles and eagerness about the awaiting future.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

7. Cincinnati 1981<\/h2>\n
\"\"
Source: deluxetoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Another summertime memory for the sisters as they show off their fit bodies and lean legs in the sunshine. They appear powerfully confident in their own identity. But yet, there is a solemness in their faces as they lean slightly away from the camera as if trying to urge us to follow their story.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

8. Ipswich Massachusetts 1982<\/h2>\n
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Source: deluxetoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Bundled up in their winter wear, the sisters have an aura of confidence around them. This photo tells the tales of colder climates, where the gust of wind is caressing through the girls\u2019 hair, as the world witnesses now. We have already gained the knowledge l by now that it is a task to get them all to smile at once.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

9. Allston, Massachusetts 1983<\/h2>\n
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Source: deluxetoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The sisters are together in their unity as they pose for the photo. Their dresses are intentionally similar after a long time and they seem to be holding on to each other dearly. As the rays of sun hit their pretty faces, all of them mysteriously reflect an emotion unknown to us.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

10. Truro, Massachusetts 1984<\/h2>\n
\"\"
Source: deluxetoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

In this picture, the dynamic sisters are at the tip of Cape Cod. They are looking more matured both in their bodies and minds. We can only assume and imagine what took place in their respective lives that made them turn into elegant adults from eager young ladies. This photo provides us with a scope to reimagine what might be up with each sisters.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

11. Allston, Massachusetts 1985<\/h2>\n
\"\"
Source: deluxetoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

No visible smiles in this one although the strength of their bond is omnipresent. And again, we are left staring at their faces in wonder as we pinpoint the similar outfit choices. Each of the sisters has something very unique to offer for the camera, defining this picture with their unbeknownst backstories.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

12. Cambridge, Massachusetts 1986<\/h2>\n
\"\"
Source: deluxetoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The sisters\u2019 journey has crossed a decade now and we are still as unaware as their life events as we were ten years ago. The four sisters are still as much of an alluring riddle to us. This photo hints at being planned beforehand. All of them scoot close as they strike a pose.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

13. Chatham, Massachusetts 1987<\/h2>\n
\"\"
Source: deluxetoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Time doesn’t seem to be working in favor of the sisters as is visible in their ageing faces. But, you can’t look past the blazing determination that is flagrantly visible in their being. The sense of defiance in their looks makes us think about what might be going on.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

14. Wellesley, Massachusetts 1988<\/h2>\n
\"\"
Source: deluxetoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Finally a photograph with all four set of smiles. We can see subtle smiles playing at the corner of the sisters\u2019 lips as they look into the camera. A hint that maybe something worked in their favor or maybe it was just a fine day. However, you will never imagine the truth behind the smiles.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

15. Cambridge, Massachusetts 1989<\/h2>\n
\"\"
Source: deluxetoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A completely different pose this year as one of the sisters is completely hidden behind another, allowing us only a look of her face. Her body is carefully out of view. The smiles are missing again, leading us to assume that it must have been another difficult year for them.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

16. Woodstock, Vermont 1990<\/h2>\n
\"\"
Source: deluxetoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Two among the four sisters seem to be happy in their lovely bond while one seems quite aloof. She seems to be present somewhere far away mentally. A patient look at her indicates that she might be considering a different life for herself, maybe somewhere away from the rest.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

17. Watertown, Massachusetts 1991<\/h2>\n
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Source: deluxetoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

In this insightful photo, the sisters are seen maintaining a bit of a distance from each other. The scarcity of smiles makes us wonder if the bond between them is fading with time and if distance and age is finally taking a toll on their relationship.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

18. Concord, Massachusetts 1992<\/h2>\n
\"\"
Source: deluxetoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Not a camera facing photo anymore. All the sisters are present in their variety of poses as they look in various ways. While one has her sight downwards, the other has her gaze fixed on her face. It seems like despite their family rifts, the sisters consider it really important to maintain their tradition of one photo a year.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

19. Unknown Place 1993<\/h2>\n
\"\"
Source: deluxetoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

We are unaware of the place where this photograph was taken as Nixon didn’t inform us. But our well thought guess is it is somewhere around England. A hint of smiles are scraping the corners of the ladies\u2019 lips. After all these long years, is something positive finally going to greet them?<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

20. Grantham, NH 1994<\/h2>\n
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Source: deluxetoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Unlike the previous pictures, this one is clicked by the sisters themselves. This is the closest they have been to the camera in all of the photographs. It isn’t known if Nixon was unable to be present for this photograph or him and his wife were going through a troubled marriage at the time. Nonetheless, we do get to privilege to peek a closer look at them.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

21. Marblehead, Massachusetts 1995<\/h2>\n
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Source: deluxetoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

This is probably the happiest picture uptil now in their sisters\u2019 journey. They are all lovingly woven into a warm embrace as they hold on to each other; as if determined to make their bonds even stronger. They seem to be willing to spend more love filled time with each other. But, if you are excited about this one, you must wait until you see 2010.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

22. Lexington, Massachusetts 1996<\/h2>\n
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Source: deluxetoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A fascinating variety of expressions can be witnessed in this photo. They don’t really reflect each other’s happy vibes, indicating something unpleasant happening behind the picture. But, despite the situations, the sisters seems to have vowed not to break the annual tradition.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

23. Wellesley Hills, Massachusetts 1997<\/h2>\n
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Source: deluxetoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

As the decades are going by, ageing is being difficult on the ladies. Life challenges seem to have worn them out. Most of the ladies in the picture have pensive expressions, subtly letting us know that there are greater stories hidden behind the picture.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

24. Falmouth, Massachusetts 1998<\/h2>\n
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Source: deluxetoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Grim shades of grey and black are sprawled over their bodies. Who knows what might have warranted such a gloomy setting for this picture and almost all other pictures. We have all unitedly been patiently waiting for the mystery to unravel since 1975, we hope it isn’t too far away.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

25. Unknown Place 1999<\/h2>\n
\"\"
Source: deluxetoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The year 1999 surely was an unforgivingly difficult year for the sisters. As they all lean towards the camera together, the weary lines are visible in their ageing faces. However, despite all the troubles, we salute the sisters\u2019 ode to sisterhood and how they haven’t broken the annual tradition through the years.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

26. Unknown Place 2000<\/h2>\n
\"\"
Source: deluxetoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The bonds of sisterhood is really a miraculous one, as is evident in this photo. The strong sisters cling on to each other for dear life, now more than in any of the other years. They have religiously practiced the love of sisterhood for decades and are trying to prove to us that they are united. One might even absentmindedly forget that they live separate lives for the rest of the years.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

27. Unknown Place 2001<\/h2>\n
\"\"
Source: deluxetoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The mystery behind the place allows us to think that maybe they are somewhere a bit more cheerful where they are granted some relaxed moments. But even in their burden free state of minds, the smiles are still quite distant from their lips.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

28. Marblehead, Massachusetts 2002<\/h2>\n
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Source: deluxetoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A repetitive trait in all the photographs is that the rest of the sisters seem to surround and embrace one sister. We are pretty confident that she had spent the long years working to earn the warm love and respect bestowed upon her by her sisters.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

29. Unknown Place 2003<\/h2>\n
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Source: deluxetoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

As the sisters look into the camera, fear and worries appear to be etched into their faces. We have severe scarcity of options except for wondering what might have happened in their personal lives to warrant such expressions in every annual photo. That’s the engaging factor in this project, we are travelling with the sisters through the years without knowing their stories.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

30. Cataumet, Massachusetts 2004<\/h2>\n
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Source: deluxetoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The sisters have caught on to latest technologies as one if them is visibly carrying a cell phone. Two among the four sisters appear really indifferent to their appearances, as if they couldn’t care less. The differed varieties in their fashion also allows us to realize that they are all individual people.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

31. Cataumet, Massachusetts 2005<\/h2>\n
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Source: deluxetoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

As one of them confidently glares at the camera, as if challenging it, the other is looking another way, depriving us to see her full profile. We are drowned in perpetual thoughts as to why they might have posed the way they did. It is also striking how two sisters can appear so utterly different.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

32. Wellesley, Massachusetts 2006<\/h2>\n
\"\"
Source: deluxetoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

As the full of self esteem Bebe lets her hair down, the others appear more polished in this photograph. However, the same pattern is clearly evident in this one as well, as the same sister is looking away, very much like the previous picture. Nonetheless, they are a family that speak of powerful bonds of love.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

33. Unknown Place 2007<\/h2>\n
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Source: deluxetoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Aged wrinkles adorn the faces of all the sisters as they permit us a peek into their lives once again. If our guess is right, the sisters must have all been grandmas at this point of their lives. It has really been more than three decades.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

34. Dallas, Texas 2008<\/h2>\n
\"\"
Source: deluxetoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Some varied range of personalities are shining through this picture. As one moves forward to capture the center of the photo, other prefer to be hidden safely. They are absent minded in their own worldly thoughts and provokes us to be engrossed in thoughts about their personalities too.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

35. Unknown Place 2009<\/h2>\n
\"\"
Source: deluxetoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Finally we get to know that Bebe is Nixon’s wife and she is the woman who is driving these sisters to be present annually for the photos. She holds the other three women together with strength and love together all through the years. It also appears that Nixon and Bebe are in a strong marriage for all the long years.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

36. Unknown Place 2010<\/h2>\n
\"\"
Source: deluxetoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

One sister seems to be at peace as she closes her eyes, maybe glad about this project running successfully for all these years. The others fondly take part in her peace as they lean forward to show the world their continuous bonds of lovely sisterhood.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

37. Truro, Massachusetts 2011<\/h2>\n
\"\"
Source: deluxetoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The sisters appear to have aged like fine wine as they look even more beautiful with all the fine lines and wrinkles. The gloriously aged faces of the sisters speak of a long history of love and strength that they caringly carried through the years. The radiant love of the ladies reflects even through the black and white picture.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

38. 2012<\/h2>\n
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Source: deluxetoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

As we are nearing the end of the \u201cBrown Sisters\u201d series, Nicholas Nixon leaves a heart warming message for the strong ladies. He expressed his love for his sisters in law Mimi, Laurie, and Heather, and confessed how much in love he is with his wife and best friend, Bebe. The pictures were fruits of his admiration curiosity of the ladies that turned into an annual tradition.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

39. 2013<\/h2>\n
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Source: deluxetoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

\u201cThe Brown Sisters\u201d is one of the most iconic and most long running photographic series of the 20th and 21st centuries. The full collection of the photos is a rare find that has only been auctioned twice. The Museum of Modern Art, New York, staged a critically acclaimed and popular exhibition of the full series.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

40. 2014<\/h2>\n
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Source: deluxetoday.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Nicholas Nixon captured his wife Bebe, who was then 25, along with her sisters in 1975 for the first time and religiously recreated a portrait of the same every year. The conceptual art behind the photos documented the evolution of the sisters in four decades. The photos all had historical backdrops and a total of fifteen institutions and ten private collectors own the total series of pictures.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

I am a firm believer that if you have a sister, you are already blessed with a true best friend. Sisters share such a heartwarming bond that it is unlike any other. These four sisters mesmerizingly took a series of pictures over four decades which documented their life journey. Let us look through their insightful […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":10,"featured_media":5893,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[77,79,80],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5537"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/10"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=5537"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5537\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":97363,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5537\/revisions\/97363"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/5893"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5537"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=5537"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=5537"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}