Photography by Sarah Hickson - Arts documentary, Social Justice, Culture, Travel

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As the UK went into lockdown on 23 March 2020, the gravity of COVID-19 and its implications were just beginning to hit home. I observed my own responses in quiet solitude - from intense activity to overwhelming fatigue. From information overload, to a need to withdraw. From calm rationality to anxiety and fear. The pandemic has thrown the world into crisis, and many of us have lost the familiar structures or reference points of employment, education and regular family life. Our living rooms have become classrooms, our computer screens the portals for work and social interaction. Whilst we learn to adapt to confinement and social distancing, our doctors, nurses and carers work tirelessly, looking after the sick and the vulnerable, our frontline workers keep essential services going through the crisis, and we’re witnessing extraordinary acts of generosity, compassion and solidarity within our communities. The questions I have been asking myself in recent weeks are concerned with re-assessing priorities and building resilience - as individuals, and as a society. Many things we took for granted are currently unavailable to us. We can no longer ignore the fissures, inequalities and injustice COVID-19 has revealed. For those of us working in the arts, the months ahead are bleak. How do we best manage the uncertainty with flexibility and confidence, whilst dealing with feelings of vulnerability and anxiety? How do we prepare for a more sustainable and equitable future? I've been taking my camera out with me around my neighbourhood since just before lockdown. Having the camera in my hand grounds me, and gives me a sense of purpose. It quietens my mind, and helps me breathe and reflect. I’m noticing familiar things differently and making a series of images of my local environment during this strange time - using the limitation on travel and movement as a creative focus. I’m also doing research for projects in development - including a participatory work exploring landscape, the environment, performance and photography, and an artistic residency inspired by nomadism and nature. I’m thinking about them in new ways, staying open to new possibilities and opportunities. Staying actively hopeful. Follow me on Instagram to see my latest Local Lockdown images.

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