Idle Eyes Collective was established in 2020 on the mist of the pandemic. It is where diverse local photographers can embrace their passion in a braver and safer space. This space provides photographers to sharpen their skills, own their craft and explore their creativity. This creative space is not only for the members, but it is for the community as well. Anyone can rent the space for photography or even events. Idle Eyes Collective is all about providing a welcoming space for the community and promoting the photography culture right here in Calgary.
As a local photographer, I found out about Idle Eyes Collective through an Instagram story. What attracted me to Idle Eyes Collective is that they promoted the space to be safe and inclusive in their Instagram account. As a photographer having a safer and more inclusive space is everything to me! I am a Filipino- Canadian living with Cerebral Palsy; I know that the world is not made for people like me. Photography allows me to matter in this world and enables people to see my perspective of society.
2020 has been a tough year for me to get creative and build relationships. However, I am blessed to have found Idle Eyes Collective because it helped me regain my love for photography. Idle Eyes Collective is more than just a collective; it is a family. Every member of Idle Eyes respect, support, and share resources with each other. For me, I am in awe of the work of every member at Idle Eyes Collective. All the talented photographers in the collective inspire me to keep getting better as a photographer and always make sure I am heard!
Writing and photography by Lionel Migrino
Idle Eyes Collective
Website: IdleEyesCollective.com
Instagram: @idleeyescollective
Contact: idleeyescollective@gmail.com
Address: Idle Eyes Collective, 215 36th Avenue NE, Bay 8, Calgary, AB. T2E 2L4