‘Lovedown’ painting

• I WAS shocked and saddened that a peaceful “Lovedown” camp in west London was broken up by the authorities.

It seemed to be inhabited by gentle, liberal, utopians. They are very afraid of any ugly draconian measures against the right to protest.

They argue that masks and social distancing have, to a degree, dehumanised us. We can’t see each other’s faces, we can’t touch.

As for the Covid-19 vaccines these, unfortunately, have been rushed. The problem with “big pharma” is its nasty obsession with money. Science is not enough on its own, when compassion is not added.

Local people, feeling neglected in this crisis, appear, in fragile solidarity, to have donated food to the camp. I was temporarily “camp artist” and here (detail) is one of my paintings.

ZEKRIA IBRAHIMI
Mackenzie Close, W12