Art in Isolation: A Visit to Ann Sophie Cochevelou’s Studio and Her Pandemic Masks
On a crisp London afternoon, I found myself winding through the creative labyrinth of Hackney to visit the extraordinary artist Ann Sophie Cochevelou in her studio. Ann Sophie, known for her boundary-pushing, theatrical creations, had adapted her art practice during the pandemic, crafting masks that reflected the strange new reality we all found ourselves in. Her studio, a treasure trove of colors and textures, buzzed with the energy of her unrestrained imagination.
Each mask she created was a world of its own, layered with symbolism and materials that spoke to our shared experience of isolation and resilience. From feathers and sequins to recycled fabrics, Ann Sophie’s pandemic masks went beyond mere protection—they became statements of identity, a way for people to express themselves in a time when faces were mostly hidden. I remember holding one mask adorned with intricate beadwork, its delicate balance of elegance and defiance captivating me.
Our collaboration during the Voices of East London pop-up at Bicester Village came to mind. Ann Sophie was one of the artists invited to be part of our spring campaign, where she presented a stunning installation in the pop-up store. Her work brought the vibrancy and ingenuity of East London to Bicester, engaging a new audience and inviting curiosity. Her installation, with its daring designs and eclectic style, perfectly captured the spirit of reinvention and resilience that defines her work. Seeing her studio filled with remnants of that era and new creations felt like a full-circle moment—a testament to the enduring spirit and community that art fosters, especially in times of transformation.does.
