During the Covid-19 lockdowns I have been exploring the potential for painting to be both personal in its expression, and firmly rooted in the world and responsive to our experiences of it.
We have been experiencing a simultaneous heightening of connections and isolation, and in this on-going moment of crisis there is a new open-mindedness and receptiveness to talking about mental health. I have been listening out for positive messages that strive to bring us together in solidarity and spirit, such as ‘we’re all in this together’ and ‘playing all the tunes to keep us going’; and the works I have made during this time have been in direct response to positive messages that I have come across.
Playing All The Tunes To Keep Us Going
‘Playing All The Tunes to Keep Us Going‘: Greg James speaking on BBC R1 19/03/2020.
Really Wish
‘Really Wish I could show you these in person, and you could touch them. Take care of your loved ones and yourselves x‘ Instagram post by artist @hanamiletic on 10/04/2020.
Here Comes The Sun
In April, My children’s primary school’s remote staff choir performed Here Comes the Sun by video link for home schoolers during lockdown.
Don’t Be So Hard On Yourselves
‘Don’t be so hard on yourselves‘: Clara Amfo speaking on BBC R1 11.51am 15/04/20.
Lockdown Days
It’s All Gonna Be OK
‘It’s all gonna be OK‘: Clara Amfo speaking on BBC R1 12.07am 07/04/20.
Send Good News
‘Send good news‘: Clara Amfo speaking on BBC R1 07/04/20.
In This Together
‘In This Together‘: @crisis_uk instagram post on 07/04/20 – “People who are homeless are being hit hard by the corona virus. Crisis is delivering emergency packages of food, tissues and hand sanitisers. We’re providing mobiles and we’re keeping our services running to ensure no-one is left isolated and in danger. Please help by donating £25 today.”
Instagram post image shows a woman sat on the ground in a coat and hat and the words:
IN THIS TOGETHER
HOMELESSNESS EMERGENCY FUND
@oxfamgb Covid-19 appeal on Instagram: “Now more than ever, we can save lives and give hope in the poorest communities. We’re in this together”.
