Born in Nikolaev city in Ukraine. Drawing, painting.
My partner and I were forced to spend 6 months in almost complete isolation in a foreign country…
Vadym Lipskykh
When the first news of the virus in Wuhan appeared, I was in China, in Shenyang city. I worked as an art teacher at Xing Chen School. At the end of January 2020, the entire city was already closed for quarantine . The teaching was transferred online.
My partner and I were forced to spend 6 months in almost complete isolation in a foreign country, conducting lessons and communicating with students online. During this long period, works were often drawn from photographs from previously accumulated material.
The Chinese took the situation very seriously, adhered to all security measures and the city seemed deserted. Further, the quarantine was relaxed and during this period I was able to visit the fishing island of Xiaolu in the yellow sea. Some motives have become material for sketches.
Upon arrival in Ukraine, I got sick with this virus. For me, isolation in Ukraine and in China are different things. In China, I felt total loneliness, which I do not feel at home, where I have more opportunities for communication and movement. I hope the world will soon overcome this virus and return to the previous rhythm of life.
The pandemic made me find myself for a very long period of time alone with myself, with my thoughts. It was morally very difficult to be in a foreign country on self-isolation.
Sketch made while living and working in China. As a foreigner, I was very interested in Chinese characters and culture.
This type is the chef at the Xing Chen art studio during a break.
This sketch shows a shy sailor. Xiaolu Island, Yellow Sea.
Art project #365daysafter