MADE IN ISOLATION

Describe yourself as a maker/artist/creative 

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I’m a graphic design student and it's my third year attending the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. A significant amount of my free time and my freelance work is spent and composed of drawing in graphite. I have recently been improving my skills as a painter but tend to focus on design and drawing.

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What are you currently working on?

 

I’m currently working on a graphite portrait being commissioned by my friend. I’ve also recently completed a portrait of my partner’s grandfather who’s recently passed away and serves to honor him. In celebration of Black History Month, my ART 102 class was tasked with creating a portrait of our favorite black artists. I chose to do a portrait of Amy Sherald, an amazing painter that continues to inspire me.

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Has your work shifted in response to the pandemic? How?

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My school work has shifted dramatically during the pandemic as everything is now online. Most times I find completing work can easily be procrastinated as there is no motivation when remaining stagnant in your room. However, I have found my personal projects have improved as when I do find inspiration for a project, I have ample amounts of time to work on it.

 

In your opinion, what role does the creative process play in helping us confront our “new” reality?

 

I find that if you’re able to shift your workflow into one that can thrive in the new environment we are expected to work in, the creative process can become one of comfort and relaxation. However, it certainly depends on the ability to adjust to a more isolated setting.

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Anything else you'd like to add?

 

I hope to return to a form of normality soon but only when it’s truly warranted. Having said that, I do wish to see some of the new norms we operate by every day continuing after the pandemic such as no contact delivery or occasional web meetings. Until then, I wish for good health for everyone.

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See more of Kaleb's work here.