The world may be on hold, but artists are creating more than ever. Curious to hear how photographers and artists are finding comfort in creativity, we turned to our community of photographers in Chicago, London, and Hong Kong to find out how creative expression is helping them during this time.
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Kameron Sears — Chicago
“So, I've mainly just been going through old work or shots that I've been sitting on forever and either re-editing them or finally posting them to my Instagram account. I've definitely had an urge to get out there and document some scenes during this unprecedented time, but have refrained from doing so. I've included a shot of an older lady sitting on her stoop in NYC (it wasn't taken during quarantine). The fact that she's just sitting on all alone, on her stoop, keeping her distance, represents the waiting game that all of us our feeling during this time.” Kameron Sears
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Chris Holmes — London
“This is one of the last images I took in London before lockdown and it’s one I keep coming back to due to the interpretation I can now take from it. The poignancy of a solo man a distance away from the crowd prior to it becoming a necessity. Included is a solo ray of light that we’re all looking for at the end of this seemingly endless tunnel. Looking back at images of London almost feels nostalgic, but also gives me excitement for a time where I can once again appreciate exploring it.” Chris Holmes
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Candy Lai — Hong Kong
“It’s definitely strange times and I’ve realized the meaning of creativity for me has spread across different forms. From capturing new photos or reflecting back on archived work, to more recently engaged plant care and even cooking, creativity is the everyday art where I find comfort in connecting with myself and expressing my authentic self.” Candy Lai
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Kwe Bentum — Chicago
“Being an essential worker under Illinois's stay at home order, my work routine has remained the same, but my creative pursuits have diminished significantly; January being the last time I actually undertook a creative assignment for a friend who'd been expecting in February. Finally, after three months of virtually zero artistic activity, I woke up one morning and told my partner I needed her to create some art.” Kwe Bentum
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Ari Gurdon-Lindey — London
“In these rather strange times, my candid street photography has taken a backseat. I normally find pleasure in taking shots of people, and there’s hardly anyone on the street. Living in central London that was all the more prominent. I felt a bit lost in the beginning. I carried my camera with me on my daily walks, but nothing inspired me. I found myself standing outside shop windows, checking out mannequins. I took some photos of them, and liked them. Then I took photos of empty Soho and surrounding areas. I felt like I should be documenting this unique time. Also, at home I’m revisiting old shots giving them a new look by re-editing them in Lightroom. They will most likely stay on my hard drive without being seen by anyone, but I enjoy the process and I’m feeding my creative urge this way.” Ari Gurdon-Lindey
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Ope Odueyungbo — London
“I have to admit, it’s been a little disheartening regarding the work side of things. But, I’m taking comfort in believing that this time is a small period in a much bigger journey. I always try to keep a positive mindset whilst thinking of ways I can still remain active in my creativity. Creative expression is definitely giving me something to focus on (as well as keeping me sane). And, of course, some ideas tend to not come out as I envision, but I’ve got to trust the process as it’s important to keep things flowing, to the best of my ability.” Ope Odueyungbo
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Extraordinary times and a ‘new normal’ have confronted each of us during the pandemic and lockdown. Capturing and sharing these experiences offers an opportunity for us to support each other and collectively bear witness to this unprecedented moment in time while trying to make sense of its impact on our own lives. A special ‘Thanks’ goes out to all of the photographers and artists for submitting their portraits and images. We will continue to post additional thoughts and images during the Covid-19 crisis. Until then, stay safe and be well, from all of us at Trope.