Arts Everywhere: Episode Thirty-seven

Creating Through the Struggle: Artists Navigating Mental Health

With Gordon Pepper

The Saskatchewan Arts Alliance podcast, Arts Everywhere will be recording a series of episodes exploring the stories of artists living with mental illness and mental health challenges. In each episode, we’ll explore the intersection of creativity and mental health, shedding light on the struggles, triumphs, and raw experiences that shape our work. Together, through candid conversations, we’ll discuss how mental health influences our art, and, in turn, how art becomes a tool for healing and expression.

Canadian Photographer: Thelma Pepper

Given her massive success as a Canadian photographer it’s hard to believe that there was a time, when, not once, but twice Thelma Pepper faced depression head-on.  Her belief was that she needed to find something that would make her feel good about herself.  Those who know her work can attest to the fact that the power of her photography touched the lives of her subjects and audiences.  It is that kind of reaction that was all the confirmation Thelma needed to know that she had found her bliss, and in doing so, found that “something” that made her feel good about herself.  In this episode guest host Kevin Power is in conversation with Thelma Pepper’s youngest son Gordon.  Gordon is a Saskatchewan film maker who gives listeners a first-hand look into the remarkable life of Thelma Pepper.

If you, or someone you know needs mental health support reach out to someone whom you feel you can trust, or Call/text Canada’s suicide and crisis hotline at 988.