Photo Voice Project

Life in the Time of Coronavirus was the topic of our last PhotoVoice discussion group facilitated at Northern Lakes. Members of Traverse House Clubhouse took photographs and wrote accompanying messages to reflect their experiences during the pandemic and offer suggestions for coping to benefit others. We appreciate their great creativity and willingness to share!

Thank you to Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs (MCACA) and Northwest Michigan Arts & Culture Network for their support of the PhotoVoice project.

Northwest Michigan Arts & Culture Network
Hobbies

Hobbies, crafts, and other pastimes are very useful distractions that help relieve stress and anxiety.

-Dannie

Goldfish

Big Girl, my goldfish, was my only companion at my house in Spring 2020 during the lockdown. I never knew a fish could serve as a companion until I noticed her noticing me in the room. She would come out and watch me move around. I felt a connection.

-Kathy

Mask

Reality calls
Within tragedy are dreams
Fantasy is life.

I take with me from this pandemic many skills. Through it, the power of escape through my mind. Without art or my fantasy, I would be lost in darkness.

-Betsy Zeeryp

Buddha

My thoughts flow like water currents in a turbulent stream. Maybe even brittle reeds in the wind, which may snap! Meditation softens these thoughts — allowing me to practice a unique skill of “Awareness”. I can go for longer periods without judgement, attachment, or aversion. Pencil strokes and breath are a healthier alternative to excessive worry.

-Dannie

Reach for the Stars

Everything went virtual in 2020 and that brought both positives and negatives. On the bright side, we all learned new skills and were able to attend events we might not otherwise have been able to attend, like my nephew’s high school graduation. On the other hand, it is hard when you miss friends and family and can’t see them.

-Kathy

2 chairs

Cold, wet, dreary day
Isolation comes full force
We are now alone

This picture represents the family gatherings that were physically lost during the pandemic. Not to say there weren’t any, because we had virtual opportunities. But it also reminds us of the need of human contact and the loneliness.

-Betsy Zeeryp

Angel & bird

This wind up music box plays “You’ve Got A Friend.” It reminds me how people have been cut off from family and friends during the pandemic.

-Dannie

Bench

When you feel lonely, or anxious, or sad, it can help to get outside and take a walk. Sometimes it is hard to get out, but it is always worth the effort. Fresh air and nature are rejuvenating.

-Kathy

Steps

-Betsy Zeeryp

Bunny

We may have taken the ability to gather with people for granted before the pandemic but we don’t anymore. We know that our relationships with people are treasures.

-Dannie

Tulips

These tulips represent new beginnings and growth. I am excited and have hope that the pandemic will soon be over. I will take with me a greater appreciation for beauty in the world.

-Kathy

Bud

Rebirth from a bud
Life rebounds from tragedy
Growth will come our way

-Betsy Zeeryp

DBT

To better manage anxiety, stress or depression, try DBT therapy. It is a program that really helps me with managing challenging emotions. Practicing these coping skills, I believe are essential “fix-it” tools in any toolbox. The more tools the better!

-Dannie

Live Laugh Love heart

Be happy.

-Kathy