ARTIST HOPES WORK CAN DRAW MORE SMILES FROM MUIR RESIDENTS AFTER LOCKDOWN LOWS
AN ARTIST has developed a keen eye for colour during COVID-19 by using his work to inspire others and improve his own wellbeing during isolation.
Muir resident, Peter Hodgson, says his art has helped him to see the brightness beyond COVID as he injected more colour into his work to help overcome the challenges of a depressive disorder and anxiety.
Some of the Bradford College student’s work is being displayed in the city’s Royal Infirmary as he sought to inspire medical staff and patients during the pandemic.
And he hopes it can also raise more smiles for Muir residents as lockdown restrictions start being lifted across the UK.
“Art helps me cope and hopefully it can make others smile too,” said Peter (pictured), who is studying for a degree in Visual Arts.
“It has been giving me focus and is a nice distraction from things that have been happening.
“COVID has played a part in my artwork this year but I also like nature and have been trying to put more of that into my work.
“Previously my work was quite dark but it’s different now.”
Pieces of Peter’s work include a colourful tile mosaic portraying a doctor in PPE giving the nation the thumbs up, and a freehand drawing of a girl in PPE mask reaching up towards an everchanging tree.
Peter has also used water colours to illuminate lockdown isolation and has also begun loom weaving as part of his research into Bradford’s textile industry, resulting in even more colourful creations.
Now he is trying to get more of his work noticed after the end of year gallery usually showcased as part of his course was twice cancelled because of COVID, having also been featured recently on BBC Radio Bradford.