Elderly Woman and Resting Youth by the Roadside

This striking black and white photograph captures a moment of profound quietude amidst an urban landscape. The composition is masterfully divided, presenting two parallel narratives of rest and contemplation. On the left, an elderly woman sits in profile, her weathered hands gripping a staff, her gaze fixed on a point beyond the frame. Her expression carries the weight of a long life, a study in resilience and quiet dignity.

The artist’s use of monochrome strips the scene to its essential elements: form, texture, and light. The soft, directional lighting sculpts the contours of the woman’s face and the intricate folds of her garments, contrasting with the deep shadows that envelop the scene. To the right, a young figure sleeps atop a large, meticulously bound bundle, its complex pattern of ropes and fabric a testament to a life of transit. The gritty texture of the central post, scarred with remnants of paper, grounds the image in a tangible, lived-in reality.

This poignant moment, captured by Nasrul in the autumn of 2025, reveals a deep sensitivity to the human condition. His lens does not intrude but observes, allowing the scene to unfold with authenticity. The photograph becomes a timeless document of a fleeting pause, a shared space of vulnerability and endurance.

This work is a quintessential example of the photographer’s career-long exploration of human emotion and visual narrative. Consistent with his focus on capturing the essence of his subjects with profound depth, the image transcends mere documentation. It becomes an echo of emotion, reflecting a deep-seated commitment to portraying the dignity and resilience found in everyday life, solidifying his reputation for creating evocative and emotionally resonant imagery.