Newark based fine art photographer, filmmaker and teaching artist Chrystofer Davis, has been documenting the city during COVID-19 in a series titled, “Social Distancing in Newark.” Him and his frequent collaborator, Newark based artist and founder of the Nork! Project Gabe Ribeiro, have also been using their platforms to host a series of live Instagram discussions, “From Newark With Love,” on creating and documenting in Newark. Paul Robeson Galleries’ Associate Curator (Programs) Kristen J. Owens curated a selection of photographs from Davis’ series along with a brief q+a with the artist.
KO: What compelled you to begin the “Social Distancing in Newark” series and what, if anything, are you are hoping to convey?
CD: As a documentary/street photographer, I felt that it was important to capture and preserve this historical event that’s happening in our city. I created this series to spread awareness of whats currently happening in Newark and to document for future generations to reflect on. I know that in time we will move pass this pandemic, however, I believe that this will change how we will live and interact in our society for years to come.