Born in the Time of COVID
David Wells
- Sitter: Kat Fraser
- Medium: Pastel on paper
- Dimensions: 73 x 52 cm
- Representation: Brisbane Artist Agency
About the artwork
This portrait represents the impact of becoming a first-time parent during COVID-19. Beyond the individual subjects, this artwork is a statement of solidarity with the many families whose impending birth progressed regardless of lockdowns or restrictions. Rituals, including baby showers, were overshadowed, villages were kept apart, but joy perseveres in isolation.
About the sitter
This portrait focuses on David’s wife, Kat, and their newborn child during the COVID-19 lockdown. Normally confident and assertive, Kat’s best-laid plans as a first-time parent required rapid re-imagining within a pandemic. COVID-19 proved the catalyst for unexpected complications, which Kat has faced with determination, and more vulnerability than wished for.
About the artist
David Wells is an eclectic artist having worked professionally as an actor, graphic artist, web designer, circus and street performer, musician, children’s entertainer and visual artist. He has exhibited extensively, and has been awarded over 30 prizes for his art.
“When putting your heart on your sleeve, it is gratifying to see the artwork turn out how you hoped it would and humbling to see it resonate with others.”
Behind the scenes
For my first major work as a father, I knew I wanted to create something deeply personal expressing the importance of this next life chapter.
The process was challenging in finding a working rhythm within the sleep deprived chaos of a new family.
When putting your heart on your sleeve, it is gratifying to see the artwork turn out how you hoped it would and humbling to see it resonate with others.
