COVID-19 has had a huge impact not only on my daily routine, but also my son’s, which is why I have chosen to explore the theme Mothers Who Make In Lockdown.
Like many freelance artists when lockdown began so did the postponement of my work. There was a cascade of emails, phone calls and a lack of sleep on my part. Trying to make some plans, strategies, applications, anything to salvage projects mid-way or dear to my heart. The outcome, of many, still unknown and the re-purposing of activity is getting harder by the day, week, months…
These are unprecedented times. Home schooling was NEVER on the cards for my son and I. However, it’s happening! Year 6, transition time, the final year trip to France, the celebrations, the tears, fears, memories of infants and juniors all stopped. Hugely traumatic for my son and undoubtedly the cause of many sleepless nights, tears and tantrums.
The producer, in me, began to see the need for a positive and active lockdown routine. I set about planning like I would an arts project, although this one had no budget but a lot of time and capacity to invest!
As the facilitator of Mothers Who Make Liverpool I have moved to zoom sessions, with the group, as the need for connection, bonding and advice is greater than ever. These sessions are enabling me to feel I’m achieving, however small, as a mother and maker.
Through images and words, my RISE Together commission piece documents the daily routines of women. Hopefully sharing with others, especially mothers, the strength we have… even if we have to dig even deeper than ever before!
About Claire
Claire is a producer, project manager and arts consultant who works with artists, companies and venues on development, strategy and sustainability. She facilitates the National initiative Mothers Who Make Liverpool alongside Tmesis Theatre and venue hub, Unity Theatre.
Twitter: @cbigley02 / @MwmLiverpool
RISE Together on BBC Radio Merseyside
Want to find out more about the RISE Together programme? Culture Liverpool’s Head of Arts & Participation and RISE curator, Alicia Smith, took part in the below BBC Radio Merseyside interview with Jermaine Foster. Just press play and skip to 51.50 to catch up now.
