Most of the world has been in lockdown for over a month now due to the COVID-19 crisis. A moment frozen in time, when people are faced with solitude, grief or anxiety and see their daily lives shift for the better or the worse. In this time of extreme uncertainty, we can also take the time to reflect, create and enjoy the passing of these strange elastic days. We thought it would be interesting to ask artists around the globe how their creative process has changed during the quarantine and if it has been an inspiring or rather daunting experience… with a quick snapshot of themselves in lockdown. Combine the energy of a lifelong explorer with the know-how of a textile development junky and you get Spencer Phipps, a young American designer who has made eco-conscious fashion his top priority. He navigates the fashion world with a certain distance, fully aware that it desperately needs to move beyond the clichés tied to its exclusivity and elitism, as well as its social and ecological cynicism. Spencer dreams of creating a more just and humane fashion industry, without dulling its edge or sacrificing its capacity to dream. Discover what he’s been up to these days.

How has your daily life changed since lockdown began?

I’ve been really busy actually, or at least more so than I expected.  Since I’m at home all day, I’ve started mixing everything together so I don’t even notice so much now. It can get kind of crazy sometimes: cooking lunch in my underwear while on the phone with my team while practicing handstands (I’m getting quite good now actually).  The first few weeks were really chaotic but I’ve got the rhythm down now so it’s much better.

Have you had to rethink the way you create?

Not really, I work the same wherever I am.  We are more cautious now about the amount that we are creating though.

Did you realize anything in particular during this time?

Yes, It’s been a great period for self reflection and focusing on new goals.

Do you feel more inspired or paralyzed by the lockdown?

I find it very inspiring, I find that distance and reflection are the best ways for growth.

Have you started or returned to any activities that you do not normally have time to do?

I’ve been stretching and training a lot more than usual, and cooking so much nice healthy food.  It’s been a blessing to have the time to focus on my physical health more seriously, and work towards certain goals in this way. I feel healthier than I have in a while.

What do you think you’ll take away from this shutdown?

On a personal level I hope to continue taking care of myself and pushing myself further physically. On a global level I hope that as an industry we will be more responsible in the way we work, and more kind to one another. It is the start of a new era – and we can all make this world a better place together.

Are you worried?

I am worried for those people directly effected by this disease but I am optimistic that the future will be bright. It’s an exciting time.