Reflections on COVID-19 by @nataninotah, whose work “Don’t Bump Her” is included in the current Gas exhibition “Custom”. ❤️ #Repost @nataninotah with @get_repost
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I originally started this work back in 2016-17 in response to the events at Standing Rock. I was seeing pictures in the news of water protectors wearing face masks to shield themselves from the pepper spray being used by police to try and silence them. At the time, I was working on my MFA at Stanford and felt conflicted because my heart was with everyone on the front lines. I decided to start beading the felt masks I had in my studio that I would sometimes use when I was sanding wood or other materials for my sculptural practice. I first beaded one for myself, and then three, with my siblings in mind. After the fourth mask was completed, I thought about their compromised function and how for me they symbolized the countless number of individuals that I wished I could protect, but couldn’t for various reasons such as limited resources. Now, in the midst of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, I find that this work embodies even more powerful lessons. 1. Put your mask on first before helping others. Meaning, please protect yourself by self quarantining (if able) or practicing extreme social distancing. If you do this, you will be significantly helping to protect everyone’s loved ones (especially our elders, immune compromised, folks with mental health issues, disabilities, low income, and the homeless). If we all do our part we can help flatten the curve and start the road to recovery. 2. Use this time to give thanks for what you do have. For example, if you’re asymptomatic, get reacquainted with your breath. Gives thanks for your lungs and use them to call and check in on the people you care about. 3. After this pandemic passes, we need to continue to take responsibility for our actions and how they effect the well being of others and Mother Earth. It is literally going to take every person, village, community, city, state, government, etc. to reform our systems so EVERY living being has the opportunity to live a long and prosperous life. 4. Everything is connected. We are all being impacted by this please be compassionate and safe.❤️ Photo: Natani Notah, Making the Disposable Sacred, 2017, dust masks beaded w/ seed beads, 2.8”x5.9”x9” each. #covid_19 #nodapl
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