Early 2020 as the global pandemic was rising I found myself stuck on the island of Lombok, Indonesia. As all air travel came to a grinding halt I had no choice but to find productive ways to spend my time stuck in paradise.  Besides putting on the islands first charity funding art show and helping produce a fashion show in a tiny rural village I also made three artworks in response to the historic moment unfolding before us. 

“Beach meditation” 82cm x58cm, limited edition photographic print /100.
Bamboo drawing in the sand at Tanjung An beach.
As the tourism industry was decimated and the once bustling beaches of Kuta became deserted it opened up a rare opportunity to create this first piece. Made from one continuous line drawing in the sand with bamboo. Lasting only two hours before the tide reclaimed the beach. 

“Toxic noodle soup” 75 x 45cm, limited edition photographic print /100
Kamila in bathtub with noodles.
This piece was a reflection of over consumerism, something the pandemic is forcing industry and individuals alike to reconcile as we move towards a post pandemic world. While this piece is obviously over consuming in nature, the silver lining is thirty stray beach dogs enjoyed a noodle dinner!

"World on fire" 60 x 43cm, limited edition photographic print /100
Steel sculpture set on fire at Seger beach.
This last piece was partially a birthday present to my partner who was stuck in paradise with me and also a warning to the world that if we can't find ways to make peace with the planet we may be forced to sit by, as the world as we know it, burns before our eyes.  This piece was also a special 2020 time maker for me as the day we set it ablaze on the beach was also the same day the protests started in America over the murder of George Floyd.

You can find out more about my work and the processes on instagram @jamesjohnwood