The Whyte is proud to celebrate the return of Through the Lens, a longstanding youth photography program culminating in a public exhibition at The Whyte, all thanks to the transformative support of the Wim and Nancy Pauw Foundation.
With a generous financial contribution, the Pauw Foundation made it possible to re-establish this impactful program after a multi-year hiatus—investing in new darkroom facilities, analog equipment, and the mentorship of high school students from the Bow Valley. The revived program empowers young people from Banff, Canmore, and Mînî Thnî to explore themes of identity, community, and place through the art of 35mm film photography.
“This program gives youth a creative space to explore who they are and connect with their community and the world around them,” says Cathy Geisler, Executive Director of the Wim and Nancy Pauw Foundation. “We’re proud to help bring this important program back to life and support the next generation of storytellers in the Bow Valley.”
Stoney Nakoda Opening at Nordic Center – Ray Baptiste, Mînî Thnî, Grade 12
Originally founded in 1997 by former Curator of Photography at The Whyte, Craig Richards, Through the
Lens has reached over 600 students during its two-decade run. Its 2024/25 revival is led by program alumni Nic Latulippe and Soloman Chiniquay, whose own journeys through the program inspired them to lead a new generation.
“The Pauw Foundation’s support has had a deep and lasting impact on our ability to revive this meaningful program,” says Christina Cuthbertson, Director of Curatorial Initiatives at The Whyte. “Their investment gave youth access to a powerful tool for self-expression and community connection—one that will resonate far beyond the exhibition walls.”
To celebrate the students’ work and the foundation’s critical role in the success of this program, The Whyte will host a private event on June 24 at 5:30 p.m., bringing together students, teachers, families, and community partners. The evening will include a presentation by the program leads Nic Latulippe and Soloman Chiniquay as well as a presentation on the history of the Through the Lens program by the Archives departments at The Whyte.
The public exhibition of Through the Lens will be available for viewing to the public on June 24th at The Whyte, showcasing the heartfelt and powerful work of young photographers who have found their voice through this revitalized program.
Media are invited to attend the June 24 private evening event and explore the remarkable impact of donordriven arts education in the Bow Valley.
