Vogue Portugal has recently unveiled its April 2020 magazine cover that is themed around the Coronavirus pandemic.
The cover features models and real-life couple Bibiána Baltovičová and Adam Bardy, who are attempting to kiss despite having barriers between them: face masks.
In their official Instagram account, Vogue Portugal explained the inspiration behind their April 2020 magazine cover. Part of their caption reads: “2020’s freedom will be recognizable like this: in confinement. Be it within four walls, be it separated by a mask, always with a ray of light peeking from the window of a brighter and better future – with more freedom. And it’ll be recognizable today and in ten years time.”
It’s been almost a month since the World Health Organization has declared the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) as a pandemic on March 11, 2020 as reported by The Sauce.
It has forced several countries to implement lockdowns and most businesses to temporarily close. Almost all industries with the exception of those who provide basic necessities have been severely affected by the shutdowns, including the fashion industry.
However, the pandemic has not prevented big fashion brands and designers to take bold moves in either contributing to the health crisis response -such as creating and donating personal protective equipment (PPE) and hand sanitizers – or sending out important messages to the public through their art.
The face mask has become a necessity worldwide, as it serves as one of the most effective protection one can have against COVID-19.It has become so important and in-demand that there is now a worldwide shortage in the supply of face masks.
Truly, the face mask has now become part of people’s everyday life, a new normal, a sign of the times.
There’s also another cover for Vogue Portugal’s April 2020 issue with model Lily Stewart standing with eyes closed and arms crossed, seemingly oblivious to the bright light shining on her face. This appears to portray how most people are unaware of the ‘bright future’ or silver lining amid the ongoing pandemic.
As of April 2nd, 2020 the Coronavirus numbers stand at over 930,000 infected persons, over 45,000 fatalities and over 200,000 recoveries.
