Separation

“Human touch is a basic need and when the pandemic hit these images took on a different form but with the same message. We need our loved ones”

“One important aspect of my work is connecting through shared emotions and experiences. When I was first commissioned to make a project on Brexit my first thought was how to humanise a political subject and make it accessible to anyone.

I chose love. We can all relate to the desire to connect with others and the pain of separation conjures up a world of emotions: anxiety, rejection, fear, isolation, loss, heartache and vulnerability.

Human touch is a basic need and when the pandemic hit these images took on a different form but with the same message. We need our loved ones.

The idea of separation was no longer dominated by political borders but something more universal and terrifying. Covid separated us not just physically from our partners and families but from the world as we know it.

When reunited we clung to those we have missed with caution through the safety net of clinical protective devices; desperate to hold close those we love.”

- Laura Pannack is a photographer based in London. Her work combines her passion with psychology and social documentary.

This photo series “Separation” originally explores the angst and myriad emotions experienced by London-based couples who, as a result of Brexit, have been forced to contemplate being forced apart. With the present situation of the pandemic, this message has also become relevant for the current situation with several people being apart and having difficulties meeting because of restrictions, and hard measures.

The series was originally curated by our main media partner Are We Europe