Sheffield’s Millennium Gallery has launched a new exhibition called the Pandemic Diary, showing a collection of artworks created during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Phlegm, a Sheffield-based artist, illustrated his observations of daily life during the national lockdown.
David Johnson, a visitor to the exhibition, said: “I saw the pandemic diary online when it was published in 2020, so it’s nice to come to the gallery and see them all collected.
“I’ve met the artist before, and he said that some people find the figures very scary. I find them quite friendly.”
Phlegm spoke about finding a “simple way to keep making artwork”, and “document the daily changes at home and what he observed when he went out” during the COVID-19 lockdown.
He said: “To have this very personal collection kept together in Sheffield couldn’t be more perfect. Sheffield is where I started and found my voice as an artist and it will always feel like home.”
The artist later on elaborated his thoughts about the collection of the Pandemic Diary.
“Seeing it now in one space with time past to reflect on that period feels very emotional.”
“It felt cathartic and people’s responses when I posted online really helped me through that period.”
“It’s rare to have a subject matter that transcends geography like that.”
Kirstie Hamilton, Director of Programmes at Sheffield Museums, said: “Phlegm has become renowned for his singular depictions of imaginary creatures and impossible worlds, often irreverent and touching reflections of the many common experiences we shared at a time when we couldn’t be together.”
The exhibition will be open until the 7th of July. More information can be found here.
