The New Normal

This photography project is a visual record of the turbulent and unprecedented Covid-19 times in Barcelona. The decisions made to battle coronavirus changed the city a lot, and it’s been both a sad and surprising journey to witness the transformation. The New Normal is a portrait of the city and its people adjusting to the new normality, trying to find a balance between the fears of infection and enjoying life, making a living.

The coronavirus pandemic has come as a major turning point in the history of mankind. This photography project is a visual record of the turbulent and unprecedented Covid-19 times in Barcelona, Spain. The decisions made to battle coronavirus changed the city a lot, and it’s been both a sad and surprising journey to witness the transformation.

National lockdown was introduced in Spain in mid-March 2020. It is when the economic activity was severely limited and all non-essential workers were ordered to remain at home except to purchase food and medicines, walk a dog or attend emergencies. The city felt deserted and unbelievably quiet. City beaches and parks closed to public access. Shuttered gates. Closed doors. Many with messages from their owners, - some matter-of-fact neutral, others hopeful, encouraging, with warm wishes. Families and businesses have been creating rainbows for their windows to cheer up passers-by and neighbors. Markings on the asphalt to remind people about practicing social distancing. Sanitizer gel everywhere.

National lockdown was followed by a new set of rules and guidelines to combat the spread of the virus. The “new normal” was the term to use.
The city did not feel or look the same. No crowds of people, empty sidewalks and tourist sights. Indoor (and outdoor) capacity restrictions, restricted working hours. Mobility restrictions. Curfew. And, of course, covered people’s faces as masks quickly became mandatory.

The New Normal is a portrait of the city and its people adjusting to the new normality, trying to find a balance between the fears of infection and enjoying life, making a living.