Meet Pearl Loerke! She is a photographer and has been living in Prince George for a majority of her life!
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
There are many, but it always comes back to the one here in my life now, always encouraging me to be a bit braver, a bit stronger. Thank you, Christian, for teaching me so much about myself and sharing both the wonderful and difficult moments with me.
What is your favourite local store in Prince George and why?
DandyLines. The shop always looks and smells amazing! The staff are lovely and many of them are fabulous artists and entrepreneurs in their own right – dancers, illustrators, makeup artists, photographers, etc. Girl bosses, boss babes – I love it!
Describe yourself in one word.
Perceptive.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
England or anywhere in the beautiful UK. Or Europe, really. I am an English Literature and History geek, so the opportunity to experience a place through these two lenses would be absolutely amazing. And, of course, the landscape is gorgeous!
What is your favourite activity in Prince George?
It’s impossible to name just one! I love getting out in nature, biking, walking, skiing, or simply exploring the downtown shops and eateries. My greatest love will always be horseback riding.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
Becoming part of a vibrant arts community and learning to embrace new encounters with an open heart. I have learned new skills, developed confidence, confronted some difficult fears and struggles and connected with so many incredible women.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
Most of my childhood was a wonderful memory. My family lived thirty minutes out of town, where I got to ride horses whenever I wanted and ran around on a farm all day. The best days started with a trail ride on my horse and ended with a roast chicken dinner and freshly baked bread.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
Over the past several years, I have donated my photographic services to local initiatives: dance ensembles, choirs, yoga studios, charities, conferences, as well as performances and events. The community project I am currently contributing to is called “This Place We Share”. It is a contemporary dance performance directed by Gwynne Bilski in collaboration with several other Excalibur dancers.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
Unplugging from the virtual world and more one-on-one engagement in/with the physical world. We have to re-learn how to sit in silence, uncomfortable spaces without needing distractions. More focus, intention, independence and empathy would go a long ways.
Where would you sneak away to in Prince George to spend some time alone?
Otway Nordic Centre. It’s so beautiful and peaceful out there!
What do you think makes Prince George great?
Diversity and inclusion. We have access to some stunning parks, lakes, and sites to hike, and a little bit of everything for everyone. More importantly, we have a fiercely passionate community that promotes collaboration, growth and wellbeing.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1. Travel solo to another country and live/work there for a year.
2. Participate in a conservation program that actively works to protect and care for endangered animals.
3. Learn Sign Language.
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I dream of being my own boss in my own business but I would also love to be in management. Working and empathizing with people is my passion, every person brings their own story to the table. It is incredibly fascinating and rewarding work.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media?
Facebook and Instagram.
What is the name of your business/organization?
Pearl Loerke Photography.
Why did you get into/start this business?
I started with film photography and soon became obsessed with preserving tangible, powerful moments.
What is the goal of your business?
My photography aims to honour the relationships in your life, including the one you hold with yourself. Your hopes, your fears, all your possibilities. To celebrate the person you are today and hope to become is a great privilege.
What has been your biggest struggle either in work or life?
Maintaining space. For myself. Standing up tall and being honest with myself about what I want or need from my life. Being courageous enough to walk towards it.
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
We are a result of our environment, our decisions, and our outlook on life. I believe any path you end up on opens doors but you can neither predict nor take them all. I am grateful for everything my experiences have taught me about myself or this world.
What do you always find yourself saying?
“I need to write that down”. I pride myself on being an extremely organized and productive individual, and I have the lists and Bullet Journal to prove it. I keep it simple: I write things down to bring them into existence and then I manifest them.
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Always be kind and work from a place of integrity. Let these two principles guide both the easy and difficult decisions. You will never regret being empathetic, honest and hard working.
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Adrian Steirn. He is a phenomenal photographer and filmmaker whose work spans wildlife and environment conservation as well as the geopolitical landscape of South Africa. His work is significant in confronting both beautiful and heartbreaking realities.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
Engaged citizens represent a symbiotic relationship. You not only benefit from more wholesome, genuine connection and better service, but you also support your local artists and entrepreneurs. A thriving community helps everyone else rise.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
Sarah Loedel. She has been one of my most loyal supporters and friend over the years. We share a love of Horses, German Shepherds, and Books and Company dates!
My choice for the PrinceGeorgeNow In Focus spotlight is:
Katie Horodyski of Polished Chaos. She is hilarious, fantastic and so talented! I adore her and know she will continue to accomplish great things.
We encourage you to leave your comments and words of support below and submit your own nomination by clicking HERE. You are also welcome to submit a form of your own by clicking HERE.
In Focus is our gift to the community. A way for us to help show our recognition of the people, businesses, and organizations that help make our city great. Thank you, Prince George!
