Birdsong Held Us Together

This print is a striking example of Himid’s work. The print’s imagery and colours are inspired by batik fabric designs and patterns. The work was inspired by the first lockdown in March 2020: ‘Spring 2020 arrived, and all of us were locked in for most of the time. Luckily the weather was good, the sun shone almost every day. We went out, on our own, and walked near sparkling rivers and in among elegant trees, along empty streets and in nearby parks. We encountered people on these outings who we didn’t know but we smiled and greeted them politely. We missed meeting our friends and going out in groups to buy things in familiar shops. Some people felt quite lonely, others didn’t mind too much, but luckily the birdsong held us together.’ Lubaina Himid CBE, 2020 - Lubaina Himid CBE, BIRDSONG HELD US TOGETHER – The Hepworth Wakefield Enterprises Ltd.