Creating in the Time of COVID

Many in our community have used their creative and art-making practices as a source of healing and self-expression to process experiences in quarantine during the COVID-19 health crisis. These creative explorations consist of a diverse array of mediums and subjects, each capturing the artist’s thoughts and experiences. 

Paper Doll from the Film "Goodbye Rebecca & Eileen." http://sarahhill.org/Goodbye-Rebecca-Eileen

Creators of La Raya Fanzine and lesbian couple Ida Galván and Jara Perdomo describe this work as “a comic strip about how Jara used to dream about going to the supermarket before the lockdown, and now, she can't dream about anything.” What are you drawing hope or strength from right now? “We think that the pandemic too, will pass eventually. We focus on our daily routine taking a ‘stoic’ approach. Working, cooking, enjoying our time together, working out, etc. Not thinking about anything too much (or trying, at least). We try to focus on the positive things too: more time together, not catching the virus, our family are ok...Like Lady Gaga said to Ariana Grande: ‘We wish we were dry, but at least we are alive, so.... rain on me.’”

“People have experienced similar and worse circumstances before, and I know that if we emerge safe and healthy, we will be able to survive these conditions just as many folks from the past were able to do as well. Lots of times I think about my ancestors-- what they lived through and experienced-- and it gives me hope and strength.” Rachel Pitkin

"[The pandemic] has impacted everything from my job, to my mental health to my relationship. I haven't seen my partner in 3 months. My art gigs have been canceled and I have been working about 50+ hours a week. I need a vacation." What are you drawing hope or strength from right now? "My ancestors." Felicita Maynard

“The resilience and creativity of Queer and Trans people of Color will continue to be something I am in awe of. Witnessing the ways artists and creatives have showed up to share work and encourage hope during a global crisis has given me strength to share my own art [...] This year with most large events being cancelled, I worry about the message to LGBT folks who won’t get their experience. I decided to create an image to remind us that no event, corporate or otherwise, will ever validate the beauty and pride of who we truly are. No Parade, Same Pride.” Chanel Manicato