TIEd Together launches in Toronto

TIEd Together, a black-and-white multimedia exhibition documenting Canadians’ experiences with prostate cancer, launched in Toronto on Tuesday January 10th. Produced in partnership with Prostate Cancer Canada, 100+ images were on display along with ten video interviews. PhotoSensitive’s first launch of 2012 drew over 100 guests, who came to view the images and hear the stories of prostate cancer survivors and their loved ones.

PhotoSensitive’s coordinator James Burns acted as MC for the evening, speaking about the partnership between PhotoSensitive and Prostate Cancer Canada, and the dedication of survivors and photographers who helped to make the show a success.

Next up was Steve Jones, President and CEO of Prostate Cancer Canada, who spoke of how TIEd Together sheds light on the faces of prostate cancer.  With over 25,000 Canadian men who will be diagnosed in 2012, Steve stressed the importance of raising awareness of the disease.

Laura Bombier, PhotoSensitive photographer, spoke with Derek Lawrence, prostate cancer survivor, about their beautiful photo of Derek and his wife. Derek shared some touching and personal stories with the audience about his recovery process, and the emotions that followed. Laura expressed her love of photography and the PhotoSensitive projects, which never fail to inspire her.

Lastly, Simon Samuel discussed his work with The Walnut Foundation, and the importance of raising awareness of prostate cancer among black communities. His photo is featured in the show.

As a final surprise, Telus handed off a generous donation to Prostate Cancer Canada to help them in their national fight against prostate cancer.

Thanks to everyone who came to celebrate TIEd Together – the show is available to the public at Brookfield Place, up to and including Saturday, January 21st.  TIEd Together will then travel westward, stopping first in Winnipeg at the beginning of February at the St. Vital Centre. For more information about the national tour, please contact marni@photosensitive.com

PhotoSensitive's 32-inch touchscreen, the centerpiece of TIEd Together, displayed ten video interviews of prostate cancer survivors and their loved ones.

Guests peruse the exhibit before the launch. Over 100 images are on display, telling the stories of Canadians affected by the disease.

Simon Samuel, prostate cancer survivor and advocate for The Walnut Foundation, with his wife Cheryl, in front of their photo, taken by V. Tony Hauser.

Emilio Ciampini watches his interview on the touch screen unit. His father, a Holocaust survivor, died from prostate cancer over 20 years ago. In the poignant interview, Emilio and his son, Giordano, talk about their father/grandfather and how much he is missed.

James Burns, Project Coordinator and M.C for the night, speaks about PhotoSensitive's partnership with Prostate Cancer Canada.

Guests get involved, taking photos of their own.

Photo by Giordano Ciampini

Simon Samuel speaks about his experience with prostate cancer and the importance of raising awareness among the black community.

Steve Jones, President and CEO of Prostate Cancer Canada, accepts a generous donation from Telus

Photographer Ruby Agoncillo

Photographer Laura Bombier, right, listens attentively while she waits to speak about her work with PhotoSensitive and prostate cancer survivor Derek Lawrence.

Derek Lawrence and his wife Margaret stand in front of their photo with Helene Vassos, COO and National Director, PCC and Steve Jones, CEO, PCC.

Helene Vassos and Steve Jones, PCC, preview the films.

Wayne Harris, prostate cancer survivor, enjoys a moment with his family in front of their photos taken by Michele Taras.

Sean Dennis, prostate cancer survivor, stands with wife and photographer, Geraldine. Sean lost his mother to breast cancer, seen together in their photo, just before his own diagnosis.

Photo by Giordano Ciampini