Artist Statement: I named my piece ‘Sprout’ for two specific reasons. The first is obvious; the centerpiece of the photo is the sprout of a plant. The second is that a sprout symbolizes new growth, which is what this piece is centered around. Surrounded by sharp, jutting pieces of clay as well as harsh, bark-filled soil, a singular sprout rises among the chaos, awash with sunlight. This connects to the pandemic because it symbolizes the reestablishment of our society, as well as the slow but sure recovery from the devastation of the virus. There are also a few painted rocks that me and my dad made together last month, that say “Beware the Infected” and “They’re Coming”. Although these may not seem like they fit, I included them to make light of the situation & to show that as long as everyone remains hopeful, we can make it through these troubling times. I chose to submit a photograph because I find it difficult to explain this complicated situation in writing; I’m a visual learner, and a picture better helps me connect with and understand the piece’s meaning. When my audience sees this piece, I hope that they will feel hopeful just like I do, and maybe even laugh a bit at the painted rocks.