Marilyne, 70 years old, embraces her sweetheart David, aged 63. Marilyne is a passionate visual artist. The couple was very much in love, and their shared enthusiasm for art was what led them to participate in Arianne Clément’s photo project. Free and empowered, they welcomed us into their private world without holding back.

The photo session was a lighthearted affair. Both Marilyne and David were comfortable with their bodies and their appearances, putting prejudices and taboos aside. For them, growing old with their sexuality was a beautiful thing. “We trust each other deeply and we’re very comfortable with our bodies and our desires.” Sensuality has shifted, becoming “slower, more languorous compared to when I was younger.”

During the photo shoot, humour and fun were on the agenda—a nude tango even served as an icebreaker. The session unfolded very naturally through an exploration of angles, viewpoints and different positions. Throughout their 24 years of loving and supporting each other, the pair had developed a unique and inspiring relationship. “When we make love, my partner makes me feel beautiful. I feel continually loved.”

Marilyne is fun and vibrant. She has been battling with breast cancer for many years. Her experience has made her stronger and she wants to share her story with all caregivers, female and male: “Every day, I enjoy the miracle of being alive and thriving. I believe we should accept our ‘imperfections’ resulting from old age or cancer, and even proudly display them. They are our war medals.”