By Claire Voon
Artists are sheltering at home, and despite the disruptions to their lives and limited access to materials and space, many still feel an urge to create. Some are making works that respond directly to the coronavirus pandemic; others, now with unexpected spare time, are realizing suspended projects that have nothing to do with the developing global crisis. We spoke with seven artists about how their practices are helping them find solace and meaning in this period of uncertainty and paralyzing anxiety.
Between nursing a four-month-old, homeschooling a four-year-old, and caring for her husband, who has COVID-19, Francesca DiMattio has still found time to create. DiMattio, who is best known for her complex ceramic sculptures that marry sundry cultural and historical references, has been spending five hours a day in her home studio in Hillsdale, New York. With her husband self-quarantined in his own studio, both kids join her. While carrying her infant daughter in her arms, DiMattio has sculpted a chandelier and has been creating grids made of painted tiles; she’s also been building porcelain cups and dishes with her son, who glazes the vessels in cobalt.
The quarantine period has compelled DiMattio to find teaching moments in everyday challenges. “Both requiring your hands and attention, motherhood and one’s studio practice are in direct opposition to each other,” she said. “I have been determined to find ways for them to enrich one another.” Recently, she began working on a new project, making frames out of materials such as Legos and nails to construct a family tree and visual pet cemetery. The process has inspired her son to experiment with techniques, but it’s also helped DiMattio cope with her anxiety and fear.
“I have never really appreciated how much I needed art for my mental well-being,” DiMattio said. “Working has been centering. Completing something when everything else feels so up in the air is grounding.”
