Remember to Live (Memento Vivere) (2021)
Giclée print. Edition of 3
Finalist Ravenswood Women’s Art Prize, 2021.
Remember to Live (Memento Vivere) is steeped in the histories of still life painting, Memento Mori and the Dutch Golden Age. Lowry recasts these histories, bringing them into a contemporary context. Created in the early stages of the Covid-19 pandemic, this work draws on the concept of Memento Mori (remember that you will die) which subsequently reminds viewers to live (Memento Vivere).
Contrasting a voluptuous display of grapes, vines and figs against ants, insects, and a protective face mask, Lowry explores the early stages of the pandemic. Largely confined to our homes, donning a face mask for tentative excursions for essentials, many soon forgot the freedoms which we had previously taken for granted. The open book is juxtaposed against the domestic knife and plate, symbolising the finely balanced work from home situation into which many were thrust. Almost imperceptible, the dragonfly rests on the grapes, a symbol of change, adaptability and hope.
Just as the Dutch masters reminded their wealthy patrons of the need for prudence amongst their excess, Lowry reminds viewers that even in the midst of a pandemic, we must Remember to Live.