Link 1: Connection, submitted by Stephanie Sabins

Link 2: On My Mind, tempera and acrylic on cardboard submitted by Anna Schachter

​Artist Reflection: Especially during this challenging time, we rely upon our connections with one another. Whether forging new connections or strengthening existing connections, it's been important to be able to give and receive information and support. Our brains work in a similar way, building new connections, bulking up existing connections, and even paring down unnecessary connections in order to form a neural network tailored to our needs and experiences. I painted a network of neurons passing signals to one another, representing how we are reaching out and connecting -- especially now. And, neurons are even good at physical distancing, as they don't touch, but rather send signals across gaps called synapses.

 
 

Link 3: Psalm 121, Reflective Hope, mixed media composition of acoustic and electronic instruments 
​submitted by Behzad Dayanim

​Artist Reflection: My first impression of the artwork evokes images of neurons in the brain sparking and activating, perhaps due to stress and/or excitement at the many new things it is encountering. It also triggers a sense of mindfulness and seems to illustrate being reflective/contemplative coupled with a desire and hopefulness that comes from connection with others. There is a certain feeling of electricity and movement in the work as those bright spots seem to have extended arms reaching toward each other, dancing perhaps? This seeming contradiction led me to a piece I composed based on Psalm 121 which is both reflective and hopeful. My composition aims to mesh these two ideas in a sonic landscape that evokes both desolation and hope. The ethereal voices and vamping piano are meant to set a tone of mindfulness and reflection while the more uplifting refrain builds a sense of momentum. I think this represents a lot of what I’m feeling during this time – at times, somber and reflective, but also immensely grateful and hopeful for what is on the horizon.Link 3: Float on, digital painting submitted by Marriah Vengroff

​Artist Reflection: I was inspired by the calming colors and the feel of the piece I received. And the name "Afloat" made me think of trying to float on through a situation with so many unknowns, and finding the sparks of light and beauty along this unchartered path.

Link 4: Hope builds through connection, acrylic paint, water soluble pastels, tempera paint sticks, and matte gel medium on acrylic paper submitted by Alisa Kotler-Berkowitz

Artist Reflection: The musical notes, while separate, need to connect with each other in order to grow stronger as the piece evolves. I endeavored to create the same feeling - with the pieces of art separate, but connected by needing each other to create the piece as a whole. When we come together we create beauty and hope. When we come together - even while physically separate - we can give each other energy and strength through kindness, generosity and thoughtful support.

Link 5: Missing the human connection, black patina copper wire and rubber cord submitted by Wendy Segal

Artist Reflection: I made this jewelry piece from black patina copper wire and rubber cord. In the previous work I saw the repetition of similar shape and style (like humans) and all the spheres encircled together but not able to touch or connect. My response resembles a body enveloping another and is hollow because we cannot connect like this the way we used to.

Link 6: Across the Social Distance, mixed media collage submitted by Becky Price

​Artist Reflection: I was intrigued by the line drawing nature of the jewelry piece and the idea of connection and space. I was inspired by the previous link and by the Margaret Atwood quote to make both faces out of one single piece of string to bridge the distance between the two canvases.

Link 7: The distance between is unequal parts perception and perspective, light and shade, 
​submitted by Stacey Moriarty

​Artist Reflection: I found the images in the previous work as compelling as the accompanying words, and both profoundly melancholic. The idea of "being" in two places at once, while not physically moving freely, calls into question one's perception of social distancing. What does space mean and can you find a balance between here and there? The patterns (light and shade) behind the faces further obscure what is real and what is perceived space.

Note: The artists did NOT see the reflections written by the previous artist, only the image of the work and the title. The reflections were revealed only when the chain was complete.

Feeling inspired? Create your own artistic response to this chain and share on instagram #translations2020.