Quarantine dreams

  • Vilte Svanyte
  • Brigita Sermuksnyte

Wake up, breathe in. Do yoga, breathe out. I'm overwhelmed. Alright, let’s start. Am I in my room? Or am I still sleeping? Housebound. Is isolation only in my mind? These series of photographs were taken before the global pandemic but managed to encapsulate emotions we’ve all collectively faced. Initially, the artists explored topics such as self-observation, fitting societal standards to find comfort. Hence the feeling of this photoshoot emulates a dreamlike state and melancholy. "We could have never imagined that in a couple of months the world is going face a pandemic that would assimilate this narrative." The symbolism of staying at home, displayed in this photoshoot was exemplary not only of the physicality of self-isolation. It became a unique exploration of life in lockdown in which we had to meet our inner selves. Initially, an artistic duo explored a young person who feels constantly monitored to fit the perfect ideal, through the lens of society. It stemmed from personal experiences. The cameras represent the feeling of being constantly watched and be perfect, find approval from others whether on social media or amongst friends. The main subject is trying to create its own world as a way to escape. It is a world, where you don’t need approval anymore. Once the pandemic hit the world, everyone seemed overwhelmed trying to still stay “productive” and perform soon to realize that we don’t need to prove anything to anyone. We are all simply humans, between four walls and it’s a perfect time to meet the real you. It’s time to stop holding back emotions for a performative matter. Make the first step and say hi to the real you.