Red Zone

As a measure to reduce the spread of COVID, the government color coded areas based on numbers of infections. Those in Yellow Zones, moderate infection rates, were free to move about within the same zone. Those in Red Zones, high infection rates, were required to stay inside their homes. The artist’s home area was at one point designated a Yellow Zone, surrounded by a Red Zone, so movement was still limited. His home area became a Red Zone and the artist was unable to leave the house. It was truly frightening as food ran out. NOTE: This painting has a very special meaning for the artist. While working on this piece, he learned that his teacher and mentor, Srey Bandaul, just passed away from COVID. The artist had to set the painting aside and was unable to work on it for weeks due to the powerful emotions.