The Pinehouse Photography Club
Fostering Hope Through the Lens
The Pinehouse Photography Club stands as a beacon of hope, not just within Pinehouse but across rural and remote communities nationwide. Emerging from a commitment to utilizing photography for youth well-being, the PPC has been instrumental in addressing mental health challenges among its young members. This nurturing space for budding photographers acts as a sanctuary, offering solace and inspiration. Through therapeutic photography, participants explore its healing facets, using it as a conduit to manage stress and articulate their emotions.
Empowering Youth through Therapeutic Photography:
Fostered by the collaborative efforts of Primary Care Nurse Dre Erwin RN(AAP) and Pinehouse resident Jonah Natomagan, the Pinehouse Photography Club (PPC) illuminates Pinehouse as a sanctuary for creative exploration and optimism. This initiative emerged from a unified mission to tackle the profound mental health issues affecting the area's young individuals.
In 2018, the PPC garnered national acclaim through its feature on the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation's program, "New Lens on Life." This spotlight not only showcased the club's remarkable endeavors but also underscored the urgent need for innovative solutions to address mental wellness among the younger generation.
Since its inception, the PPC has blossomed into a pivotal sanctuary for Pinehouse's budding photographers. It serves as a haven where young individuals discover solace, inspiration, and a supportive community. Through the lens, club members have unearthed the therapeutic benefits of photography, employing it as a coping mechanism for stress, a medium for emotional expression, and a gateway to exploring the enchantment of everyday life.
The Pinehouse Photography Club continues to thrive, extending its influence by generously donating equipment to the Pinehouse primary school. This act kindles the flames of creativity in more young minds, reaffirming the club's mission: inspiring creativity and championing mental wellness among our local youth. By advocating for therapeutic photography as a tool for self-discovery and healing, the PPC empowers young individuals to fortify their resilience and unveil their potential.
We invite you to join us in embracing the transformative power of therapeutic photography. Together, let's cultivate creativity, fortify resilience, and champion mental wellness among our youth—a commitment that resonates globally, with similar initiatives flourishing worldwide.
Explore a glimpse of their exceptional work here!
"Through photography, young individuals gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of their heritage, traditions, and community, leading to improved self-awareness, self-esteem, and a strong sense of support from their peers and local networks."
Northern Saskatchewan's Photography Club Sparks Inspiration Among Youth
"Pinehouse Lake youth have indicated that photography is a healthy outlet that helps with feeling lost or depressed. Looking at the beauty of nature through the camera lens generates appreciation for what they have, instead of focusing on the negative."
- Saskatchewan's Advocate for Children and Youth
From Personal Despair to Community Empowerment: The Journey of the Pinehouse Photography Club
After facing personal struggles and experiencing grief, Dre turned to photography as a coping mechanism. However, it wasn't until he found himself in the midst of a tornado while photographing an old barn that he had a transformative realization. This storm became a powerful symbol of how short life is and the importance of focusing on the positive moments. After moving to a remote, predominantly Metis community, Dre's photography quickly gained attention from local youth who were captivated by his images of the aurora borealis. Though initially reluctant to take on more responsibilities as a nurse, Dre began teaching the youth how to capture their own images. It was then that he realized the transformative power of photography and its potential to positively impact the lives of those who use it.
Therapeutic Photography Collaboration: Empowering Mental Wellness
Healthcare professionals, educators, and professional associations interested in exploring therapeutic photography, seeking public speaking engagements, workshops, or further information regarding the creation and implementation of therapeutic photography clubs or organizations, please feel free to reach out
Pinehouse Photography Club Making Headlines
Observe as young people in Canada and worldwide discover how the craft of photography possesses the ability to transform lives.
New lens on life: using photography to heal from trauma
A New Lens on Life: The Healing Power of Therapeutic Photography
Unveil the Healing Power of Photography! Step into the mesmerizing world of 'A New Lens on Life,' a CBC award-winning documentary. Discover how the art of therapeutic photography is changing lives in Pinehouse Lake, Saskatchewan. Be captivated by the transformative journey of resilience, creativity, and healing. This is a story that will leave you inspired and wanting more.
Join us on this unique voyage and follow to watch the full documentary.
Therapeutic photography involves taking, analyzing, and utilizing photographs for the purpose of personal healing, growth, and self-discovery. By actively producing, exploring, and reflecting on images and pairing them with creative writing, you can gain a deeper understanding of yourself and your perspective on the world.
Therapeutic Photography
Unaware at the outset, Dre and the Pinehouse Photography Club stumbled upon the concept of therapeutic photography. It wasn't until they witnessed its evident impact, observing how it gradually assisted the youth in understanding their emotions and thoughts, that they realized its profound influence.
Founder of Therapeutic Photography
Judy Weiser
Seasoned Psychologist, Art Therapist, and global authority on PhotoTherapy
A club in northern Saskatchewan is helping heal and transform lives in their remote community through photography.
louis Iron
"I love taking pictures because it helps me express myself when words aren't enough. It's like a visual diary that helps me see things in a different way and feel better about myself."
Keara Tinker
"Photography saved my life"
Tyson Ratt
"Photography helps me express myself without using words."
Jonah Natomagan
Too many good things to say about the guy who inspired and taught me photography to help with my anxiety and depression!
Mental Health Blog
Photo Gallery
The Power of Therapeutic Photography
See more from the club here
Capturing Culture: How Youth Photography is Helping Connect a New Generation with their Roots
Participants in cultural activities such as the Pinehouse Annual Elders Gathering in Pinehouse Lake are encouraged to participate in photography. By taking part in these activities, we are able to engage youngsters who might not otherwise be interested in becoming a significant part of the event, shooting images and videos, and documenting these moments in time for future generations to see.
Unlocking Hope: The Healing Power of Photography for Youth Mental Health
