Initially the focus of my work was the public and private self. It was an exploration of how individuals change as a result of their environment. In March 2020, the COVID-19 lockdown began in Melbourne. I could no longer observe the intimate moments of everyday life in the public. I had to turn the focus on myself and understand how the relationship with my environment had shifted as a result of this change. I focused on my private self and the moments in my daily routine.

 

As the lockdown continued, my routine developed into a continuous, oppressive sequence of events. From here, I wanted to explore my emotional response to this new repetitive life. I also became aware of the parts of my life that no longer exist as a result of the pandemic, such as travel, seeing friends, spontaneity and a sense of freedom. Many of us now long for our 'normal' pre-quarantine life back, and I think my piece connects with this need. It demonstrates the universal feeling of disconnect when each person retreats into their private routines and is unable to interact with the outside world.

 

The first part of my final is a series of detailed paintings depicting my daily routine in twelve panels. During the lockdown each small detail within this routine is amplified and becomes intense; the concept of time is blurred as each day bleeds into another, demonstrated in the unchanging pattern of the second print. The final print is a reminder of the balance that once was. Since many are grieving the parts of their lives that are no longer safe, I want to remind viewers that this situation will pass. The arrangement of elements in the third print expresses the ever-changing nature of life and that it is unnatural for things to stay the same.