This project is inspired by personal and interpersonal reflections, which usually result in a realization that, in spite of feelings that one is alone in difficulties with mental health right now, those feelings are shared among many. It is hard to embrace that one's personal hardship is truly a function of the current state of the world, especially since the world wants so badly to move forward. And yet, the damage done is still present, whether we can directly connect it to the pandemic or not. The purpose of this project is to affirm that feelings of emotional and mental decline are normal; to remind participants that our apocalypse has a powerful influence on our wellness, emotionally just as much as physically. This project's survey and dashboard parallel Wake Forest's diligent collection of physical data, but with that same attention for the emotional.  Far from an official experiment, this is a collaborative art piece which intends to raise awareness and cultivate honesty and connection surrounding mental health.

            You were likely brought to this site from the swabs around campus, which are the physical representations of the monumental burden of the pandemic. The swab, a test in itself like this project's survey, is something everyone has encountered. 

            This work is made possible by support from the Public Art course, ART 215.