The pandemic of COVID-19 did not only pose a threat to the physical health of the population but also put many people in a position in which they had to deal with the loss of their friend, partner, or relative. The project allows us to recognize and acknowledge the loss, and it could be challenging to do in the context of social isolation. The Healing Wings project is an interesting way of honoring those lost to the disease, especially since many rituals have been disrupted due to pandemic restrictions.
For the project, an artist Josh Switzer created a metal tree to be installed at the Agave Artist Cooperative in Mesilla, New Mexico. The tree was intended to hold the clay figurines made out of clay, which was painted in memory of people lost to the pandemic (Cook). The project was a great healing experience as people were invited to come and paint the wings and share memories of their loved ones (“Healing Wings Project”). The wings were offered free of charge so that anyone needing an artistic outlet for their grief could come and participate (Romero). This way, people who have had similar experiences could unite into a community and, through a collaborative effort, release their inner pain and create something beautiful.
Projects like the Healing Wings are essential to strengthen communities that have gone through adverse times. Art can be an excellent creative outlet for grief, while the created pieces represent the loving memory of the individuals who passed away. The COVID-19 pandemic has separated many people, so it is important to rebuild the sense of trust and understanding within communities so that their members can cope with their struggles and support one another along the way.
Works Cited
Cook, Mike. “Healing Wings: Processing Grief Through Art.” Las Cruces Bulletin, 2021. Web.
“Healing Wings Project.”Agave Artists. Web.
Romero, Leah. “Healing Wings Project Helps Residents Process COVID-19 Grief Through Art.”Las Cruces Sun News, 2022.