PIETA
OVERVIEW
Pieta, formerly known as Pieta House, is a charity in Ireland dedicated to suicide prevention and the support of individuals affected by self-harm. Founded in 2006, Pieta was established in response to the growing need for accessible mental health services in Ireland, where the issue of suicide has tragically impacted countless lives. The organization has since become a lifeline for many, providing free counseling and a safe space for those in crisis. Their flagship event, Darkness Into Light, is an annual walk held at dawn to raise awareness and funds, symbolizing the journey from despair into hope.
"Alan Compton’s extraordinary creative ability allowed us to capture the Pieta House journey on film and through photography. This year’s Darkness into Light event raised €6million and 200,000 people participated. Al’s film was an integral part of this campaign."
- MELANIE STANFORD
CONTEXT
Ireland has faced a persistent suicide crisis, particularly among young people and men. The stigma surrounding mental health, coupled with economic challenges and a history of social isolation in rural areas, has exacerbated this issue. The need for effective suicide prevention services has never been more urgent, making the work of Pieta crucial in offering hope and support to those in need.
BRINGING LIGHT INTO DARKNESS
My collaboration with Pieta began with a request to produce a TV commercial and a complementary photographic series to promote the Darkness Into Light event and raise awareness of Pieta's vital services. I based myself in Rush, a small town just north of Dublin - engaging with the locals, I built a cast from everyday people who generously supported Pieta and appeared in both the commercial and the photographic series. The community spirit that is so characteristic of Ireland played a pivotal role in the success of this project.
Given the vulnerability of the community served by Pieta, it was imperative to respect the boundaries of those currently suffering from the issues at the heart of this narrative. Instead, I focused on the broader community, many of whom shared personal stories of how suicide and self-harm had touched their lives. These stories brought home the devastating impact of these issues and underscored the importance of organizations like Pieta in providing essential support.
A NATIONAL PLATFORM FOR A CRITICAL MESSAGE
The TV commercial was broadcast to a national audience, amplifying the message of hope and resilience embodied by the Darkness Into Light event. It reached millions of viewers across Ireland, reinforcing Pieta’s mission and encouraging participation in the event. The campaign’s impact was further felt when the commercial was played before 13,500 people in Phoenix Park, Dublin, and at Croke Park Stadium, Ireland's largest sporting arena. These venues, steeped in Irish culture and history, provided the perfect backdrop for spreading Pieta’s message to a wide and diverse audience.
The photographic series complemented the TV commercial, offering a poignant visual narrative that captured the essence of the campaign. The images, like the people of Rush, were honest and raw, reflecting the everyday heroes who, through their participation, contributed to a cause that could save lives.
CONCLUSION
Working on this project was a profound experience, not just as a creative endeavor but as a reminder of the power of community in tackling some of society's most pressing issues. The generosity and openness of the people in Rush were a testament to the strength and solidarity that defines Irish communities. Their willingness to share their stories and support Pieta’s mission highlighted the deep-seated impact of suicide in Ireland and the critical need for continued awareness and support.
This collaboration with Pieta is a powerful example of how creative work can transcend mere visuals, becoming a vehicle for change, empathy, and, ultimately, hope. The success of the campaign not only raised awareness for Pieta's services but also contributed to a national conversation about mental health, one that is vital to saving lives in Ireland.
