Internationally Acclaimed Milestones Project Photo Exhibit Opening at Gallery 213

Installation celebrating childhood around the world to tell the same story and confirm a universal truth: We are all connected.  This connection is where true and believable healing begins.

(August 18, 2009 - Calgary, Alberta) In 1998, Dr. Richard and Michele Steckel began the "Milestones Project^TM," an undertaking involving taking and exhibiting thousands of National Geographic-like photos of children and adults all over the world to promote cultural tolerance.

Since they started, the Steckels have been honoured by the United Nations, they have been acknowledged by Time Magazine and their Milestones collections of large photos have been exhibited around the world - the London, England exhibit was premiered by Prince Charles. To date, they estimate over 200 million people have seen their work.  "We are honoured to have the Canadian premier of the Milestones Project photographic exhibition in Calgary  where we took over 2300 images in 2002. To us Calgary represents a fine example of acceptance and respect for all of its beautiful residents," says Dr. Richard Steckel.

"This is quite an honour for Gallery 213 and Dexterity Consulting to host the Canadian premier of this exhibit.  What's even more exciting is that the likes of Prince Charles, Bishop Tutu and JK Rowling all having contributed their wisdom and energy to this organization and this exhibit," says Gena Rotstein, co-owner of Gallery 213 and Founder of Dexterity Consulting, Canada's only philanthropic brokerage firm, "The timing of this exhibit could not be more perfect.  What with the start of the school year, and Calgary hosting the World Skills Olympics, an exhibit showcasing cultural diversity brings arts and culture together with education and the trades."

About the exhibit: "The Milestones Project: Diversity Exhibit," features 35-large images. Each image showcases a different milestone that regardless of socio-economic background, race, ethnicity, religion or culture, we as humans all go through.  From our first tooth, to our first word, to our first haircut, all mankind is built upon these commonalities.  The photos in this collection celebrate these common themes.

Media Scrum:

Interview & photo opportunities with photographers Richard & Michele Steckel will be held at Gallery 213 (#213, 100 - 7^th Ave. SW - Art Central).

Noon - 1pm, Tuesday, September 1^st, 2009

Opening Event:

Thursday, September 3^rd, at 5:30 p.m., Gallery 213 in Art Central - #213, 100 - 7^th Ave. SW

6:00pm presentation by special guests and photographers, Dr. Richard & Michele Steckel

Exhibit sponsored by: Dexterity Consulting, INDUSTRYimages, the Safe Haven Foundation, Parker House Restaurant, I.M.A.G.E Consulting Inc.

What people are saying about the exhibit:

Words will never do them justice. To appreciate what the Milestones Project is doing, you must see the pictures. You can feel your assumptions about race and nationalism slip away as you move from one loving, trusting, hopeful child's face to another. Suddenly your urge to protect them - all of them - is profound.                                     - Diane Carman, Denver Post

It is beautiful, such a celebration of life.
- Joy Conley, New Zealand, Award-winning children's author

Beautiful, so many wonderful pictures and words . . . it truly is an inspiration.
- Rita Morin, Canadian Social Activist

Fantastic! The integration of the original writings with the photographs creates a compelling work, and one easily accessible to all.                                                             - Reynelda Muse, Former CNN Anchor

Thank you to our sponsors:

INDUSTRYimages, Safe Haven Foundation, Parker House Restaurant, I.M.A.G.E Consulting Inc, Drs. Steve Baylin & Brad Krusky, Debbie Baylin, Martha Parker