Lauren Baldwin

I began making these images as a log and reflection during the early stages of the Covid-19 lockdown in March. I collected newspaper cuttings that stood out to me. I then began to think about the exhibition and realised that Corona was dominating my thoughts and that I could not think clearly about other matters. I did not have the headspace to start an art piece reflecting on anything else.

I then thought about the children I have taught who come from homes, which are abusive, neglectful or who live traumatic lives. Thinking about how the trauma of Covid-19 has dominated my thoughts, I thought about children in my class who I have expected to engage, learn and progress at school whilst traumatic home experiences dominated their thoughts. Becoming increasingly aware of how impossible this is and how when living with trauma and anxiety, they dominate.

I have continued to make these images during this pandemic focusing on themes that seemed important and relevant as an Art Psychotherapist: vulnerable children, domestic violence, vulnerable key workers, vulnerable groups, bereavement, mental health and loneliness, London and the economic effects.

The pandemic has also highlighted the vulnerability of the BAME community, with people from different ethnic backgrounds being worse affected. This has linked with discussions on the course and my increasing awareness of oppression and white privilege.

The impact of America was included too and although it is slightly separate from the others, I have found American news disturbing and at times distressing and you cannot escape it.