Covijo-99
Series of 99 artistic face mask performable sculptures
new project started during the the first lockdown in March 2020.
The title is a mix of the word ´COVID´ and the Spanish word ´COBIJO´ which means shelter.
It consists in a series of 99 unique pieces based on the idea of masks. Initially inspired by movements of community facemask sewing groups in order to support the NHS, the project evolved into a pandemic diary that looks at the present situation- personally and globally, reflecting on human fragility, balance, the impact of social distancing and on & off lockdowns on mental health and systemic structures.
Photograher: Thom Bridge Performer: Clémentine Bedos
´The impossible kiss´ is a textile sculpture part of the series ´Covijo-99´. It is a ´mask tandem´, two masks connected by elastic ribbons with the ´social distancing´length. This piece is performed as a duo, the performers aim to get closer to each other keeping the elastic band stretched at all times. This piece puts the focus on our social connection, especially between female- sisterhood or even the bond between generations to our ancestors.
The piece is displayed as an installation, video and live performance.
Being and working in lockdown let me become a spectator in a strange way. The challenge of confinement mirrors with the voluntary confinement of the artist in the studio. With the focus on the development of artwork, I put myself the challenge of creating 99 unique pieces that explore ideas of resilience, seeking for ways of recovery and collective healing.
Developing a layered project of performance and sculpture, I collect and connect the personal and the communal reaction to this situation.
My masks respond to different aspects of the occurring events over the last year and at the same time led me to condense my practice and to draw from past to present reviewing my own previous projects, creating a reminiscence as mask,