Constellations

Constellations is a series of mixed media paintings created amid the genesis of the Covid-19 pandemic. The work was executed at a time when life was uncertain, the virus misunderstood, and social connections avidly feared and coveted. Our lifelines were with those we love and keeping them safe meant keeping our distance.

Similar to constellations, I believe our human attachments tether us to each other. During these trying times, however, our interdependence is at a longer range. The extra precautions I have had to take as a person with a physical disability have resulted in a separateness that has been difficult to acclimate. These paintings depict moments where the essence of  community means making connections while staying apart.  

Self-isolating has meant adjusting my habits as a consumer. I have taken the opportunity to (re)use substrates by reworking or altogether painting over pieces that have lost relevance. The result has been new pieces imbued with texture and depth originating from ‘what came before’. 

Like our skies and skins, this is a story that is not easily readable initially, but beautiful in its complexity.  It is, after all, our histories that make us human and our relationships that can make us humane.