Portraits displayed at the Japan Foundation in Toronto support earthquake recovery efforts in Japan through the power of photography
TORONTO, Jan. 3, 2012 /CNW/ - In March 2011, a powerful earthquake left eastern Japan in a state of unprecedented destruction. Almost one year later, an extraordinary Japanese photography exhibition has come to Toronto to celebrate the power of the human spirit to endure through emotional and environmental devastation.
The 3.11 Portrait Project showcases a collection of traditional family portraits taken by volunteer photographers in the midst of one of the largest natural disasters in Japan's history. Through the combined efforts of volunteer photographers, makeup artists, hairstylists and non-profit organizations, families in shelters and temporary housing centres were styled and photographed on-site against a plain white backdrop. The intentional simplicity of this setting allows the remarkable tenacity of each survivor to shine with a smile, turning grief into optimism—despite being surrounded by conditions that continue to test their ability to move forward.
Shiseido (Canada) Inc. is proud to sponsor the 3.11 Portrait Project, which unites victims and global audiences through photographic memories and serves as a bridge of support that connects people to each other. 100 percent of proceeds raised through the sale of commemorative t-shirts ($25) sold at the exhibit through the Japan Foundation will be donated to ongoing earthquake relief efforts.
Please see attached PDF for extended background information on the 3.11 Portrait Project.
Location: The Japan Foundation, 131 Bloor Street West, Toronto
Admission: FREE
Dates: January 7-27, 2012
Gallery Hours:
Monday: 11:30 am - 7:00 pm EXTENDED HOURS
Tuesday: 11:30 am - 4:30 pm
Wednesday: 11:30 am - 4:30 pm
Thursday: 11:30 am - 7:00 pm EXTENDED HOURS
Friday: 11:30 am - 4:30 pm
Saturday openings: Noon - 5:00 pm (January 7 & 21)
Image with caption: "A collection of images taken by 3.11 Portrait Project photographers. (CNW Group/Shiseido Canada Inc.)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20120103_C9561_PHOTO_EN_8514.jpg
Image with caption: "A child reviews her portrait with a volunteer photographer in Japan. (CNW Group/Shiseido Canada Inc.)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20120103_C9561_PHOTO_EN_8512.jpg
Image with caption: "All portraits were taken on-site at disaster relief centres in the immediate aftermath of the March 2011 earthquake/tsunami in eastern Japan. (CNW Group/Shiseido Canada Inc.)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20120103_C9561_PHOTO_EN_8513.jpg
PDF with caption: "Extended background information on the 3.11 Portrait Project". PDF available at: http://stream1.newswire.ca/media/2012/01/03/20120103_C9561_DOC_EN_8516.pdf
Erika Hogerwaard
Shiseido (Canada) Inc.
[email protected]
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