In March 2020, the threat of a global pandemic became a reality for Hawaii with the governor’s announcement of an islands-wide shutdown. The following months were characterized by isolation as well as social upheaval, as COVID-19 lay bare the ways in which America’s economic, social, and political systems are broken. Essential work. Systemic racism. Mental health. Uncertainty, anxiety, and grief, became prevailing sentiments for many. 

How does society collectively process trauma and turmoil? What is the role of art and artists in response to global crises? How does art help us to process, reflect, and respond to transformative cultural moments?

Arts & Letters Gallery and Jamie Jackson Design presents, THE COVIDIANS, a new body of work by Hawaii artist, Christopher Reiner, reflects on and responds to the COVID-19 crisis.

Working between painting, sculpture, and assemblage, Reiner utilizes obtanium – primarily found and recycled objects and parts, which are cataloged, and meticulously in his studio – as his primary media. The mask, one of the potent symbols of a pandemic, appears in each work.

Christopher Reiner was born in Annapolis, Maryland and raised on the island of Oahu and maintains an art studio and workshop in Waimanalo.  Reiner received his BFA from the Ringling School of Art and Design in 1995. His work often provides commentary on social, cultural, political and economic issues happening locally, nationally, and globally.