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. Meet the Chinese designer Sean Suen who is redefining notions of masculinity, blending it with elements of tradition while focusing on innovative shapes and fabrics. Guided by his own emotions and his experience as a man in an ever-changing society, Suen delves into menswear with a sociological point of vue. Discover how he is spending his days lately.

How has your daily life changed since lockdown began?

Mobility becomes slower and slower, also I have done more and more meaningless thinking. Without travelling I am quite used to staying home all the time, but this time it’s different, it’s not by choice, I’m forced to – that has an affect on the mind. Also one does not really know when will this crisis will end.

Have you had to rethink the way you create?

There is not much change in my way of creation, I am always by myself in the early stages of creation but the creative intent will change.

Did you realize anything in particular during this time?

Because of having a lot of time to observe and think, it is clear that everyone (including myself) really lives in their own narrow circle of life now, and our philosophy and values are imprisoned by this. It’s hard to see the outside world and especially when we’re unwilling to see it. The Internet age has exacerbated this.

Do you feel more inspired or paralyzed by the lockdown?

There have been lots of ups down and mix of feelings. I’ve had overall more feelings of being down (a paralyzing feeling) than feelings of up (feelings of inspiration). But there have indeed been inspiring times during this quarantine and it’s very different from other times.

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

I try to paint more, I used to study fine art when I was a kid.

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

I understand this world may change suddenly. I recognize that everyone needs individual thinking.

Are you worried?

Yes, I do feel worried, a lot.

How do you see life after this crisis?

Everything will go back to normal. I think it will not change too much, perhaps in a deeper sense yes. However, life goes on, people will again become busy with work and busy with everyday life.