Olivia Crumm’s video The World is Breathing is about close looking. It presents a series of seemingly still images that are, in fact, incredibly slow-moving—a gentle breeze, receding light, a slow inhale. Through the passage of time, evident in changing light and shadow and shifting colors, the ordinary scenes mesmerize, subtly shifting from the mundane to the sublime. While viewing her work, you may become aware of your own breath slowing.

Just as Crumm had to be patient and still to capture these moments, we too must be still to appreciate the beauty in the ordinary. The COVID-19 pandemic has forced all of us to slow down, perhaps allowing us time to notice these small, profound moments.