As a student studying both a BA and an MA during the pandemic, I was extremely aware of the isolation Covid-19 had caused. Being hours away from family, knowing they aren't just down the road was difficult at times. But I knew I was not the only person going through this. I was not the only person feeling lonely. That this pain was being felt by people worldwide. It was at this moment that I didn't feel so alone- because although I felt lonely at times, I knew this feeling was shared. In a strange way, our worldwide loneliness unified us.
The 'Alone, Together' virtual exhibition was planned, designed and created to encapsulate this concept and this unusual period of time. I aimed for the exhibition to almost become a time capsule, documenting the thoughts, feelings and experiences of the public throughout lockdown and the pandemic.
As a curator, I knew this project had the potential to be a creative outlet for so many and to be something for people to look forward to. An event that anyone can be part of while remaining safe at home.
However, this exhibition is different from a typical art exhibition; and that is because I did not want just artists to take part- I wanted this experience to be available to anyone and everyone. I am passionate about community and representation and these are themes I embodied throughout this project. As I mentioned above, we have all journeyed through the pandemic together and it has affected each and every one of us. No matter your age, your background, your gender identity, your race, where you are from- we are completely unified in this experience. Therefore, I found it only right that anyone can take part, submit artwork and be exhibited in a democratic exhibition (something which can be quite rare to find in an often elitist art world).
Taking part was simple; all I asked the public to do was to make something- anything they like! As long as it represented a thought, feeling or emotion they felt during lockdown and the pandemic. The medium, topic and scale were completely up to them.
After three months worth of submissions, research, planning, sketching, collaging, contacting, designing and finalising- I am so happy to say that the exhibition is finally here! I am overwhelmed by the support this project has received from so many individuals, groups and organisations who have given publicity for the project and all of the wonderful artists who are exhibited.
I am extremely grateful and humbled that you are here viewing the exhibition. No matter where you are, whether you have taken part or not, you have made it through one of the most difficult years in our lifetime. This exhibition is for you. Thank you so much for being here.
This has been an incredible project to work on, and I hope to create another exhibition in the near future, please do get in touch and let me know if that is something you would like to see!
Remember, we may currently be alone, but we are Alone, Together.
Until next time...
Shannon Skye Robinson
Friday 9th April 2021
Thanks for the opportunity to show my work. Some great words you have expressed hear and some really inspiring work from the artists who have taken part. I would love to be included in future exhibitions you put on. Best Wishes, Richard.