Items

• 
  2020-02-01

  Ioana Juravlea's Experience

  I remember when I had just finished school on an early February day and I went to Whole Foods before going to work to buy some lunch. I was watching Tik TOks on how bad the disease was spreading in China and how they were building makeshift hospitals to handle it. As I waited to checkout I thought to myself and was hit with a rush of fear. I called my then boyfriend and asked him if we were being ignorant by trying to ignore what was happening. Shortly after that I watched another video with a deeper explanation and the person states, " These are the good times, everything is about to change for the worst." Although I was scared, I could not ever imagine how bad it would actually get.
• 
  2021-02-20

  Life Frozen, Caught in a Web, Safety Arrested

  It was an August afternoon, the sidewalks I walked were abandoned. I passed this safety light on DePaul University’s campus, which based on the spider web delicately entwined within, had not been touched in some time. A bug is trapped in the middle by a force they couldn’t see, till it was all too late. This bug and I were clearly friends. My life, like theirs, had been frozen in place. Everything I aimed to do, suspended for another time. Helpless to do anything, and worst of all, even seeking safety and refuge in friends and family, made a risk.
• 
  2021-02-18

  Watching My Baby Cousins Grow Up On Zoom

  At the beginning of the pandemic, when everything went into lockdown, my uncle started weekly family Zoom calls on Sunday mornings. Through these weekly calls, we actually saw each other more often than before the pandemic, and they became a nice time to check in with everybody and share stories and what's going on with our lives. My favorite part is seeing my two baby cousins, both of whom don't live near me. When we started, my youngest cousin was four months old, and through Zoom, we have watched her learn to walk and we celebrated her first birthday together. My other baby cousin loves to talk to the family and share her toys, clothes, and food through the screen. It is all very cute, and I am grateful for the family time I get to have through Zoom.
• 
  2020-09-25

  A City Once Busy

  I once used to walk this street on my way to work at a restaurant. I always loved how busy it was, seeing the streets overcrowded with people who had places to be. When I lost my job because of the pandemic in March I had to go home for 7 months. At the beginning I think we all thought that things would have turned around by the time the leaves started to fall. When I came back, I went downtown to visit the restaurant I had once worked at. The restaurant was boarded up still and the streets were mostly empty, and I felt kind of empty too.
• 
  2020-09-01

  Essential Workers

  When I think about this past year, what first comes to mind is my food service job. Then, I think of my coworker Alex. For almost a year we worked together and she ended up being a great friend. At the end of the summer, she quit to find a better-paying job. In this picture, we were goofing off at the end of our shift, cleaning the bathroom and listening to music. It was our last day together and we wanted to end on a good note. Food service has definitely been a challenge during this pandemic, but I’m grateful I got to work with a friend through most of it. I definitely miss her :)
• 
  2021-02

  My Grandmother Watches Over Me

  Beep. Beep. Beep. I open my eyes and stretch. I smack that snooze button. The eagle stars at me. During these Covid-19 days, I’m able to spend time thinking about memories. Eyes close; I see darkness. I walk into my Grandmother’s house. A room has the eagle statue and a large window to see the birds. The eagle stars at me. All of a sudden, I am around family members at my grandmother’s memorial service. Beep. Beep. Beep. I open my eyes and stretch. I smack that dismiss button. The Eagle stars at me. My Grandmother is watching over me.
• 2021-02-09

  Puzzling Pandemic Pandemonium

  A freshly opened, hardly touched puzzle. In a time where there’s nothing, and yet too much going on, I clear my head by putting together an image I connect with, and the exuberance of finding pieces I’ve lost at my feet. COVID-19 brought numbing boredom to a new height, along with finding new ways to challenge myself and my family members. March of 2020 brought the first puzzle, and it’s been a fluctuating number both of pieces and images that include big cities and paintings ever since. I’m piecing my world back together one jigsaw at a time.
• 
  2021-02-16

  Creatives Meet in The Cloud

  During a pandemic, creatives continued to collaborate online through the platform Zoom. In this picture, Jackson Scoggins, William Way, and I (Spencer Bolding) meet and discuss the beginnings of Jackson’s new magazine about a local record label. We spent our first semester interviewing key characters in the creation of Dolfin Records over Zoom, often having to explain the mechanics to those new to the program. After a series of recorded interviews, we put together an in-depth timeline of the beginning of Dolfin Records that will go into our first issue. Creatives will always find a way to create. #HST269 #zoom #localmusic #Dallas #Dolfin #zine #DIY #musicians #art #deepellum #pandemic #creative
• 
  2020-06

  Dear Anti-Maskers

  One common sight to behold during the pandemic was the signs posted within business’ storefront windows mandating masks to be worn to slow the spread of the coronavirus. In early June 2020 as the city of Chicago entered their Phase 3, which allowed for local businesses to reopen, some store owners used creative messages such as this one to enforce required mask mandates. The sign above, which I noticed on the Chicago Bagel Authority’s Belmont location—six miles north of the Chicago Loop—is a symbol of the city’s efforts to mask up, specifically targeting groups known as “anti-maskers.”
• 
  2020-02-18

  Green Mill Once Again, in Winter

  An image of this bar front was shared on this archive almost a year ago, on March 31, 2020, at the beginning of the pandemic: https://covid-19archive.org/s/archive/item/11917. On February 10, 2021, I passed by this bar on my way home from an errand and remembered it being shared on this archive. It looks different now, so I wanted to document it. Aside from the weather depicting a more solemn image, the next noticeable difference is in the fact that in this posting, the bar's front window is boarded up, with a most likely spray-painted tag in green ink. The boarding up is most likely a remnant from 2020's late spring/early summer protests that took place around the country in response to racial violence, which was kickstarted by the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis, MN. In addition, Green Mill also has posted a flyer in the circular window of their front door. In March 2020, the pandemic was still so new that many didn't know what to do besides close their doors for the time being. Now, in 2021, with more understanding of COVID-19's severity, many businesses have some sort of signage indicating that they are closed and encouraging readers to follow the social distancing guidelines set forth by local, state, and/or federal governments. This is most likely the sign posted in window. Hopefully, in another year's time, we'll get to see Green Mill open and lively with the sounds of jazz music, the coronavirus pandemic only a memory of the recent past.
• 2021-02-18

  My Keys to a Year in Isolation

  Starting on March 9, one university email followed another; the rapidly spreading pandemic meant that campus residents like me had to immediately find new housing. Unhappy and depressed with my dorm, I was actually glad at this chance to move. As soon as March 11th, I was already searching for a new place to live. Though I was relieved, I basically had to abandon my end-of-term schoolwork to secure an apartment. This came with consequences and I ended up taking three incomplete grades. I signed a lease on March 21, 2020. A year later, COVID-19 continued to spread and I recently renewed my lease. From top, these are my mailbox, unit, and building keys to my ~220 sq. ft. Chicago studio.
• 
  2020-11-05

  Echoing Empty Galleries

  This photo, taken at the Detroit Institute of Art, is a glimpse of the drastically different pandemic-era museum experience. Upon entrance to the museum, guests are masked, tickets are bought online, temperatures are checked, and then one can wander the silent, empty galleries. Diego Rivera’s monumental Detroit Industry Murals are even more awe-inspiring when drifting around the cavernous hall distraction-free, with only sentinel machines keeping one company. Presently, Rivera’s personal history of political conflict and pandemic-related loss ring especially true. Although museum visits have adapted, one can still experience a powerful connection to art, in a new, maybe even improved way.
• 
  2020-04-30

  Won't You Be My Stranger

  Before Covid-19 descended upon Chicago, Ukrainian Village was a neighborhood of friends and acquaintances. The threat of illness has suspended neighborly activities. The neighbor whose door this belongs to has a beagle named Molly I used to pet on her walks. Now Molly and I keep our distance, lest her owner or I get sick. It’s demoralizing not to be able to trust people, not because of any personal shortcoming, but because of the potential that one of our health be jeopardized. The status friend and acquaintance has been supplanted by temporary stranger.
• 
  2020-05-18

  Adding a family member during a somber time

  After two recent deaths of our pets and the ability to be home 24/7, we decided to foster-to-adopt a kitten. His name is Kedzie, intentionally named after the Chicago street. My family is comprised of three busy adults with varying schedules, so now we are able to spend genuine time with him. Introducing Kedzie has also brought my family closer since kittens are a lot of work!
• 
  2020-05-10

  A different way to experience restaurant dining

  During this pandemic, the food industry has had to drastically modify its usual operation to stay in business but also ensure they are practicing proper social distancing. Chef Grant Achatz's exclusive molecular gastronomy restaurant Alinea thrives on the in-person dining experience. Rather than closing up shop, he's sharing a little taste of what Alinea is all about by creating to-go meals. Photograph was taken in my mom's kitchen in the suburbs of Chicago
• 
  2020-04-12

  Windy City Records’ Curbside Pickup

  In the midst of this shelter in place, many businesses are struggling to survive. Stores that rely on small, niche markets are especially impacted. The new record store in Downers Grove, Illinois is no different. After opening their doors just under a year ago, Windy City Records has relied on a dedicated, but small customer base. This notice that curbside pickup is available is just one attempt at survival. Posted during the Illinois Shelter In Place Order#DePaulHST391
• 
  2020-04-08

  Friendships in the times of COVID-19

  During the times of COVID-19, the relationship dynamics between roommates evolve as they shift from being mere roommates to teammates in the battle of staying alive and healthy. COVID-19 demands negotiating new rules, new ways of communicating, new responsibilities, and importantly: new lasting friendships. It is interesting to see how the pandemic both tests and strengthens the bonds between roommates as we navigate responding to each other’s needs. COVID-19 has presented a series of challenges with one of the negative impacts of social distancing, including coping with loneliness. The privilege of living with friends helps boost morale and mental health as we are constantly reminded that we are going through this not alone, but together. Pictured is my roommate celebrating her twenty-second birthday on our back porch on a sunny day in April. Although it is not how she imagined she would spend her birthday, friendship and company offer a silver lining during the coronavirus pandemic. #DePaulHST391
• 
  2020-04-10

  The Only Can of Disinfectant Spray

  Since COVID-19 was declared a pandemic, finding any sort of disinfectant supplies has been pretty much impossible. With cleaning supplies running low in Chicago, it has been difficult to find any disinfectant product, or even to gather the supplies needed to make one’s own cleaning solution. In a moment of good luck on March 16, I found this can of disinfectant spray at the very back of a top shelf in the Wrigleyville Jewel Osco on Southport Avenue, and climbed up on the bottom shelf to retrieve it. I haven’t been able to find any other disinfectant supplies since. #DePaulHST391
• 
  2020-04-02

  Revisiting the Parking Lot Where I Learned How to Drive

  I currently live in Chicago with my mother, stepfather, and my four little siblings. Because of the pandemic, all playgrounds are closed and fenced off with biohazard tape (which, I find amusing). Lots of large parks are open, but these days they tend to get oddly crowded when it's nice outside. On this beautiful afternoon, we decided to take the kids to ride their bikes in the large and unused parking lot of the Basic Wire & Cable Company, a very out of the way spot where I learned how to ride a bike and drive a car. #DePaulHST391
• 
  2020-03-16

  United We Stand--Six Feet Apart

  As the threat of COVID-19 drew closer to home a few local retail businesses in Kentucky have responded through social media by producing topical merchandise designs such as this one. A play on the state slogan “united we stand, divided we fall” it is a nod to the social distancing rule of keeping six feet apart. It is also a humorous re-imagining of Kentucky’s state flag design, which usually reads “Commonwealth of Kentucky” instead of “Commonhealth of Kentucky” and normally features the two figures seen in the center of the image shaking hands. In this image, however, they stand like the rest of us, being in each other’s company from a distance. #DePaulHST391
• 
  2020-04-08

  Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear’s Daily Updates

  ○ Every day at 5pm people across the state of Kentucky turn on their televisions and tune in to Governor Andy Beshear’s daily update on COVID-19. For many this daily ritual has become a source of comfort and encouragement, a glimmer of hope. Every day for weeks Governor Beshear has come on TV to remind Kentuckians that their individual actions are powerful and their choices to follow social distancing guidelines during this crisis directly affect the other people in their communities, and reminds everyone that as “Team Kentucky” the state will get through the COVID-19 pandemic together. #DePaulHST391
• 
  2020-04-18

  COVID Aid Offer in Chalk

  The South City area of Saint Louis is a diverse, tight-knit community. It only makes sense that residents would go out of their way to assist each other during this difficult time. The residents of this home near the intersection of Arsenal St. and Gravois Rd. advertised resources in chalk writing on the exterior of the house, including a LinkTree website, toll-free helpline, and email account dedicated to helping those in need and connecting volunteers with service opportunities. There are also children’s chalk drawings of flowers and a rainbow on the exterior and of a rainbow and a pot of gold taped to the window. #DePaulHST391
• 
  2020-04-09

  Celebrate Holy Week and Easter With Us On-line

  As Easter Sunday approaches, President Trump’s prediction about crowds of people returning to mass is proving unrealistic. Saint Joseph Catholic Church in Libertyville, IL is one example of many Catholic Churches offering online mass as a substitute for in-person services. While religious services have been streamed before, and “Church TV” has existed for a long time, never have Church services across the world had to be cancelled to such a large degree and replaced by online streaming.#DePaulHST391
• 
  2020-04-09

  Trubisky Jab

  Due to the recent ban of dine-in restaurants in Chicago, this clever restaurant owner took a humorous approach to social distancing through the Covid-19 pandemic. The underwhelming 2019-20 Chicago Bears season, fresh in the minds of many Chicagoans, became the focal point of this restaurant’s attempt to promote social distancing. Third-year Quarterback Mitchell Trubisky held one of the worst QBR’s in the 2019-20 season, making himself the target of much slander and in this case, a pandemic-themed joke. In these unprecedented times, a little comedic relief can be greatly appreciated. #DePaulHST391
• 
  2020-04-09

  Toilet Paper Panic at The Local Food Lion

  As the COVID-19 spreads across the world, and the country is in a state of emergency, toilet paper is seemingly wiped off the face of the Earth. Acting out of panic, people rush to grocery stores to buy TP before it’s too late. Those who make it there in time are relieved to find a few remaining rolls of TP. Those who do not are s*** out of luck, and probably should have gone earlier. Now, friends and family have a duty to each other if they ever want to put this behind us. All joking aside, this event has caused a major shortage of TP across at least the United States. #DePaulHST391
• 
  03/26/2020

  Walgreens Prescribes “Social Distancing”

  As the COVID-19 spreads across the world, essential businesses such as grocery stores and pharmacies take precautionary measures. Following the guidelines issued by the CDC, businesses such as Walgreens request that while in (and out of) their pharmacy, customers distance themselves by at least 6 feet. Inside the pharmacy, customers distance themselves physically and socially, exchanging looks from 6 feet away that seem to say, “you are too close to me.” Tape across the floor dictates the CDC’s guidelines of what is too close. Novelist George Orwell’s writings come to mind, whose literature warns of dystopian societies. The entire Walgreens experience, from walking in, to shopping, to walking out, reminds customers of the often asymptomatic virus that anyone could have. #DePaulHST391
• 
  2020-03-21

  Unmasking Kindness

  Days before Minnesota's official shelter in place, people's homes began to transform into small factories. Turning out masks by the dozens, and sometimes even hundreds, Minnesotans answered the call for the protective headwear. Isolation did not stop people from joining together in common cause. Local businesses gave away materials, and local hospitals created drive-by drop offs for people to donate masks. Once we ran out of fabric, my mother turned to old clothes to meet the demands. Pictured above, I am modeling on of the first masks she made. We donated to family members, friends, neighbors, and also to a local hospital. We also shipped some to my brother's coworkers at the Pueblo, Colorado Health Department. In total, my mom has made around 100 masks, showing that not all heroes wear capes, but they do wear masks. #DePaulHST391
• 
  04/12/2020

  Coping Through Creativity, Part 2: A Colorful Take on Crisis

  During the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s been hard to find our footing. With widespread cancellations and closures, social distancing has become the new normal. Easter traditions restored a much-needed sense of familiarity amid the anxiety and upheaval. Annual egg decorating offered the chance to dip into creativity and focus on fun. But even these colorful creations provided a clearer picture of how we’re processing these changes. While the eggs are still dyed, they take on a different message this year and reflect the uncertain time we find ourselves in. #DePaulHST391
• 
  2020-04-06

  Coping Through Creativity, Part 1: Uplifting Uploads

  Although COVID-19 keeps us six feet apart, creativity and the 5-7-5 structure are the only limits for members of ‘Haikus for a global pandemic.’ Facebook groups like this one allow members to bridge their social distance using kilobyte-sized reflections and stories. As an online platform for self-expression and community, this page has encouraged compassion and connection in a time of fear and isolation. #DePaulHST391
• 
  2020-04-16

  “Cover Your Cough”: Work Safety at a Nursing Home in Burr Ridge, Illinois

  While nursing homes play an integral role in the medical care for many elderly individuals, they also present a significant amount of risk during the time of COVID-19. The CDC has identified as those who are most at-risk for infection as people over 65, the immunocompromised, and residents at long-term care facilities. My mom, as the Senior Director of Resident Services, has often described her fear that one of her nurses, CNAs, or residents will contract COVID-19. In order to minimize risk, she relies on reminding nursing home staff and residents of the merits of practicing preventative care. These IDPH infographics provide helpful information to prevent the spread of the virus within a high risk community so that both workers and residents can stay as healthy as can be. *Illinois Department of Public Health; sheets arranged by my mother, Karen Miller, for the staff at her place of employment *04/16/2020; The day of the projected national ‘peak,’ according to the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation on 04/07/2020 #DePaulHST391
• 
  2020-04-08

  Social Distancing at Walgreens in Chicago’s Southwest Suburbs

  Although many businesses have closed their doors due to COVID-19, pharmacies have kept theirs open. Essential workers, like pharmacists, store leadership, pharmacy technicians, and customer service representatives, have continued to work for their communities despite the potential risks to their health. As a part-time pharmacy technician, it is difficult to social distance while at work, as my job relies on interacting with my coworkers and numerous patients throughout the day. This sign serves to remind its viewer that even small errands during a global pandemic, such as picking up medications, may present a preventable health threat to all parties involved. *Walgreens Corporate; notice distributed to individual stores *04/08/2020; Posted in the pharmacy queue during Illinois’ Shelter in Place #DePaulHST391
• 
  04/07/2020

  "This Will Pass"

  It has been a common occurrence to see messages in windows, streets, and porches in the neighborhoods of Chicago. Social distancing has instilled barriers into people’s lives and these messages are a sign from others that they are with you, while we all experience the effects of COVID-19. Some of these messages are uplifting while others can be relatively nihilistic. Either way it can be seen as an expression of the anxieties that stem from this plague—there are plenty of unknowns, but messages like “this will pass” is a nice reminder that community is still present in these trying times.#DePaulHST391
• 
  2020-03-18

  Cellar Door Wine Bar

  This image is one that has been shared by a bar in the Chicago suburbs, showing thanks to people for supporting small business. I find it interesting because the business does not know that the reader of this sign has in fact supported small, local businesses. Instead, it reads like when your mom says “thanks for unloading the dishwasher” as a way of asking you to unload the dishwasher. #DePaulHST391