In the midst of closures and personal loss, Cat Lamora is making some very responsive paper art

In our self-shot video series COVID Residencies, we're checking out how artists are adapting their practices in isolation, whether it's diving into different processes or getting lost in their sketchbooks.

In their episode of our new series Paper Cuts, artist Cat Lamora talked about an experience with their grandmother at the airport and how that translated into an epic paper installation. Now, they're turning their attention to the current day, and documenting all the fears, loss and quasi-funny moments into more paper works. 

Since COVID-19 locked down the city, Lamora's shared Northern Contemporary studio space has been closed, their solo exhibition has been cancelled, and their partner has lost their uncle to the virus, creating a complex set of emotions and circumstances to negotiate every day.

So, in this video, you'll see Lamora making the works that are allowing them to understand and process this situation that's new to all of us. And, Lamora says, "Art feels especially important today because it's an articulation of our reality. And our reality is COVID-19."

Follow Cat Lamora here and keep a lookout for the stories we're bringing you from other artists in isolation as part of COVID Residencies. Stay safe, friends!

CBC Arts understands that this is an incredibly difficult time for artists and arts organizations across this country. We will do our best to provide valuable information, share inspiring stories of communities rising up and make us all feel as (virtually) connected as possible as we get through this together. If there's something you think we should be talking about, let us know by emailing us at [email protected]. See more of our COVID-related coverage here.