Viral Strain is inspired by the consequential circumstances of the pandemic outside of the illness. Over the last few years, I have felt overwhelming anxiety and emotional hopelessness because of fear of the unknown and complete loneliness due to isolation and lack of social interactions. The effects that restrictions have had on my mental health, as well as the people around me, is something that we are just now starting to see the full effects of. I have witnessed relationships torn apart because of differing views on what should be done. Vulnerable people have been protected by measures implemented from the mask, vaccine, and testing mandates; however, with each new circumstance, there is a consequence, such as the proliferation of pandemic garbage.
The show uses real and heavy materials to represent the strain of the pandemic balanced by a light-hearted stylistic approach. I have seen firsthand the challenges the younger generations face as they maneuver through daily complications. The video game reference and use of new digital technologies in my installation are significant because video games, cell phones, and social media were often the go-to sources of entertainment and information, as children and youth lived in isolation for many months. Each level in the video game represents a situation that has been a challenge over the past two years. As we move through the levels, with the potential of losing our lives, we end up back at the beginning in a seemingly endless loop.
BFA Eva Francis-Work + Leanne Read – USask Art Galleries | University of Saskatchewan