A collaboration between McKenzie College and a local photographer will look into the lives of veterans..
The project is called ‘Veterans in Focus’.
Photographer and the Founder of Cameras for Healing Maurice Henri says students will help document the veterans lives using photos and in depth interviews, ” The purpose of the project is to honor and document the lives of veterans to foster understanding through storytelling and visual arts to build bridges between generations, which is the one major key of the project, and to promote healing through creative expression.”
He adds, 10 to 12 young photographers will be paired with veterans, conduct one-on-one interviews, and be involved in portrait sessions.
“The impact of connection, when youth and veterans unite, personal growth, empathy, pride and respect thrive, and that’s the foundation of Cameras for Healing is to have people thrive,” Henri says.
One veteran they have spoken to and photographed is Gladys Constable, who is 105 years old.
“We photographed her just a few weeks ago, and she said to us, I never imagined my story would matter to someone so young. And her story is amazing. As a woman during the war, and doing the things that she did. She used to be the one who took care of calculating all the logistics, flights, and waiting for bombers to go bomb Germany so they could come back home safe. It’s quite a story, and she’s 105 and she really opened up to us and told us everything,” Henri explained during a presentation to Moncton City Council this week.
“Veterans in Focus will create lasting bonds, foster meaningful dialogue between young photographers and veterans, and promote mutual respect and appreciation. This project has the potential to significantly impact the community by showcasing the power of storytelling and photography in a unique and inspiring way,” Henri adds.
The end exhibit will be presented at Delta Beausejour Hotel starting on November 1, during Remembrance month. The lobby will be converted into a gallery to host the project.
