Helen Cooper - UK

Remembrance

Title
Remembrance
Artist
Helen Cooper - UK
Location

Wirral, UK

Panel ref
14-4
About

Before making my Covid Chronicle panel, I spent time reflecting, drawing and making samples. Like many others, I felt traumatised by the pandemic. I wanted to capture it all, its past, present and future. Eventually, my reflections led me to choose the Poppy, with its link to remembrance and its enduring connection with the landscapes during the First World War. I learnt that the poppy is perceived as an everyday symbol of resurrection and consolation and in Eastern cultures, of love and passion. For me, therefore, I felt this flower captured the spirit of key workers; their endurance, courage and generosity of spirit. Throughout the pandemic, I likened these people to foot soldiers as they cared, nurtured, treated, and even died for the sake of others. I wanted to honour them. Alongside the flowers, I decided to incorporate the poppy’s capsules, with their black seeds discharging into the void. I felt they symbolised hopeful new beginnings; a metaphor for the vaccines. However, I am also aware that the seeds can lay dormant in the ground, rising again in the future; a reminder that we cannot rest on our laurels and take health for granted. A reminder of a changing future.

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The Future of The Covid Chronicle:

The Covid Chronicle is available for sale / exhibition by arrangement. The proceeds from the sale of the entire work would be in aid of MIND.  Please get in contact for further details.
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