SHIRA GOLD
Bare Essentials

Bare Essentials, is a series of composite portraits of commonplace items made valuable through the threat of scarcity. The work interrogates patterns of human behavior and consumerism as they were affected by Covid-19. Before the pandemic, many of us took for granted the products we used every day, assuming an endless supply of toilet paper, paper towels, tissues, masks and other disposable goods.

As the world shut down, panic purchasing caused these goods flying off the shelves into the homes of those hoarding against imminent disaster. This abrupt shift in purchasing habits laid bare several uncomfortable truths about our culture of consumption while shining a light on the vital work of vulnerable workers tasked with creating the materials of our basic comfort.

Author
Photography has always been the antidote for Shira Gold’s unquiet mind - a visual expression of subjects that defied verbal articulation and a lens in which she can see the world through new eyes. Shira utilizes still life and landscape as metaphors for themes common to us all and often left unspoken… grief, identity and change. Stillness, negative space and minimalism are consistent characters that have become hallmarks in Shira’s work, providing visual respite and a means to focus on intention and simplicity.

Shira’s work has garnered her recognition through various international awards, in noted photography publications, and in exhibitions through North America and Europe. She currently lives and works in Vancouver, Canada.

Website
shiragold.com

BACK TO GALLERY