Interpreting the Self in Quarantine Compilation

As the coronavirus pandemic ensues and many of us are confined to our homes, our sense of self is in flux. The things which may have made us feel ‘normal’ such as access to friends and public spaces, the things which made up our daily lives, are no longer available to us. Thus, we are all reliant on ourselves in a new way. Our relationship with ourselves and our bodies is coming into heightened focus, as lockdown rids us of other distractions. Many of us are eating differently, sleeping strangely and exercising is now more of a deliberate, active effort. We are also more reliant on our own company as many of us will be isolating alone. In other words, there is no escaping the self in quarantine. Earlier this month, we reached out to several talented artists on Instagram asking them to explore the shift in their relationship to themselves through their artwork. As predicted, the artists have interpreted the lockdown differently, each pointing to something hopeful and affirming. Some artists have opted to write something to accompany their artwork and we are thrilled to share each submission with you!

I really appreciate this time we have to self-isolate. Self-isolation is offering us an opportunity to practice self-care and self-love and nourish our bodies with love and gratitude. It has also allowed me to throw myself into my art practice, connect with the arts community and explore new artists. I’ve re-ignited old passions like painting and printmaking, and I’m finding the creative process so calming. If there is anything I could recommend during times you find yourself alone, it is to immerse yourself in the arts and let your inner creativity go wild!

@yasjessie

@aliomalley

@goodstrangevibes

 I’m currently 8 months pregnant with a 2.5 year old. It’s been a wild time to reflect and a rollercoaster of emotions and uncertainties. I’ve definitely had some dark moments worrying about health, birth, and the loss of pay, but then, just like that, a small voice in my head told me “don’t forget about miracles.” And so here we go…

@mother_canyon

It does not matter if you leave isolation having changed nothing, having learn nothing. Quite literally, surviving is an achievement, maintaining your mental health is an achievement and staying the same is an achievement. By all means spend your time as you wish, but don’t fuel the culture that pressurises change. We don’t need to become better, we need to stay at home.

@klaraslaisart

My body craves sunshine.

@swiatlo.rozproszene

@lizzieillustrates

Interpreting the Self in Quarantine #2

Interpreting the Self in Quarantine #1

We hope that you feel as inspired and uplifted as we do by all of the artwork. Even in these uncertain times, creative expression can help us make sense of our strange and sometimes scary world!

All our love,

Clitbait Team x