Student Photography Portrays Unique Perspectives on Ageing

PhotoSensitive was launched 24 years ago when a group of Canadian photographers joined together to help change the world, one photo at a time. Four years ago they partnered with the Conference of Independent Schools (CIS Ontario) to offer mentoring and create an opportunity for students to become involved in The Beauty Project. This year’s exhibit features 50 pieces (out of 300 submissions) and represents 17 CIS schools.

Rachel chose to photograph her Nonna for her submission. “Immediately after hearing about this project I knew that I wanted to take a picture of my Nonna. To me she represents ageing in the 21st century. She is such a strong and beautiful person who has been through good times, such as watching her five grandchildren grow up, and difficult times, such as battling breast cancer. Words cannot describe how fond I am of her, and I truly cherish every moment we spend together.”

Sjorland titled her picture (You)th because she feels that “In the 21st century, people have been looking to find themselves, and a sense of fulfillment, through materialism and youth. My photograph represents a fear that can be seen from either side - the elder who wishes that they had the ability to change themselves into a younger and more perfect self, and a young person who has the fear of ageing due to the value that society places on unattainable perfection … Ageing in the 21st century is no longer seen as a journey, but now as a race against time. The girl in the left of the photo with the plastic surgery lines also embodies the self-disdain that many feel as a result of not being what society causes them to desire to be - we constantly try to improve upon ourselves when, often, there is no need to change anything.”

“The reflections and approaches that Sjorland and Rachel have demonstrated in their PhotoSensitive projects allow us to see how they think and perceive the world around them,” explains Heather Castellan, their instructor and Head of Visual Arts at CDS. “Their different subjects and thoughts on "ageing" allow us to appreciate each person’s unique perspective and how they developed their own work. Photosensitive is an invaluable medium to create awareness through photography and allows for students to communicate their ideas to a larger audience.”

At CDS, we are privileged to have Toronto photographer, Stan Behal, mentor our students. While many of our art students were interested in photography prior to CDS becoming involved with the PhotoSensitive project, they had never really examined how an image could convey an idea or make an impact on society.

Every year Mr. Behal takes time out of his busy schedule as a Photojournalist to speak with CDS students and discuss not only his career and how it came about, but also his involvement with Photosensitive. Over the years, his perspectives and influences have piqued the interest of many, and led to valuable discussions about not only subject matter, but also camera settings and techniques.