Snapshot – Exploring the Power of Photography in Cancer Survivors
Snapshot – Exploring the Power of Photography in Cancer Survivors
On the occasion of World Art Day, celebrated annually on April 15th, and in recognition of the vital and timeless role of art as a refuge, a voice, and a means of healing during difficult times such as illness, the Hellenic Cancer Federation – ELL.O.K officially announces its participation as the coordinator in the European Erasmus+ project titled Snapshot – Supportive Network for Optimizing Cancer Survivorship Through Photography.
Modern scientific research increasingly suggests that supportive care interventions, including art therapy, can have a significantly positive impact on the emotional well-being and quality of life of cancer patients and survivors. Taking this into account, the primary aim of the Snapshot project is to enhance the psychological well-being and overall quality of life of individuals with lived cancer experience by leveraging the therapeutic benefits of art, and more specifically, photography. At the same time, it aspires to support their social reintegration, nurturing a sense of connection and acceptance, while also aiming to reduce discrimination and the stigma often associated with cancer.
The project’s specific objectives include:
• The development and pilot implementation of a therapeutic photography intervention grounded in theoretical and empirical evidence, tailored to individuals with cancer.
• The evaluation of the intervention’s effectiveness, feasibility, and acceptability, and the investigation of social, demographic, and other factors that may influence the outcomes.
• Raising public awareness and promoting the integration of art-based therapy within the framework of social prescribing.
Project Partners
Snapshot is implemented in collaboration with two key organizations: Eyes of Light – Arts in Health Hub (Greece) and G&M Projects (Belgium), bringing valuable expertise in the fields of therapeutic photography and mental health, respectively. Their contribution is pivotal to the successful implementation of the project, enhancing its scientific integrity, artistic sensitivity, and psychosocial awareness. Thanks to their experience, the interventions will be meaningful, applicable, and tailored to the real needs of individuals living with cancer. This collaboration strengthens the cross-sectoral dimension of the project, building bridges between health, art, and social care, with the ultimate goal of improving quality of life and fostering psychosocial empowerment among beneficiaries.
Kick-off meeting
On Friday, April 4th, the project’s kick-off meeting was held in person, in Athens, bringing together all partners. During the meeting, the foundation for the Snapshot project was laid, as partners discussed key objectives, strategic approaches, the communication plan, and the next steps for its successful and coordinated implementation. The official Snapshot website, which will contain comprehensive information about the project, its interventions, and the benefits of art in cancer care, is expected to be launched by the end of April.
Dissemination and impact
Inspired by the Erasmus+ motto “Enriching lives, opening minds,” we express our strong belief that the dissemination of the Snapshot project, the visibility of its actions and open access to its outputs will significantly contribute to establishing the value of art as a tool for therapy, personal empowerment, and social reintegration. At the same time, raising awareness among both the scientific community and the general public will promote a deeper understanding of the multifaceted needs of people with cancer and advance a more holistic and human-centered approach to health. By sharing results and fostering dialogue around art-based therapy, the project aspires to become a model of best practice and pave the way for its broader implementation in the context of social prescribing.