Due to the Covid-19 restrictions, people stayed inside for lengthy periods of time, which can have a negative effect on mental health. Listening to music is proven to have a positive impact on mood and this is what inspired Charlotte Dales paintings, which celebrate singers from the 1970s to who Dales has a personal connection. For Dales, the positive and upbeat music of this era is a huge help in testing times.

Dales is deeply inspired by social activism movements and feminism, and likes to use her voice in her work, even if it does “ruffle a few feathers”. She created a colourful digital comic on body confidence to encourage herself and others. She has also made political statements through embroidery and digital design, in her ‘Eat the Rich’ project. In the future, Dales plans to continue making art that is important to her.