By Arielle Raveney
In the popular french children’s book “Le Petit Prince” by Antoine de Saint, there is a famous quote that, translated into english, reads, “it is only with the heart that one sees rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye.” In a world under quarantine due to COVID-19, the term “essential” has been used to determine the boundaries of American’s new normal. The famous words of de Saint are the influence behind this photo series; each image exemplifies an essential part of life that may not seem important at first glance, but matters on an individual level. The title of each photograph reflects the essential thing each photo captures.
“Sunshine”
Sunshine breaks through the trees on Heron trail of Spring Lake nature preserve in San Marcos, Texas, photo taken by Arielle Raveney.
“A Happy Place”
Arielle Raveney escapes to her happy place by the pond at Spring Lake nature preserve in San Marcos, Texas, to read ‘Life of Pi’ by Yann Martel.
“Financial Security”
Fresh Donuts in Lulling, Texas is open for to go orders only due to COVID-19, photo taken by Arielle Raveney.
“Sweet Treat”
Final call for the donuts of the day for Fresh Donuts in Luling, Texas, photo taken by Arielle Raveney.
“Online Shopping”
Supply trucks continue to make long distance deliveries on interstate highway I-10 during COVID-19, photo taken by Arielle Raveney.
“Baking”
Erin O’Shea, 19, bakes brownies to pass time during quarantine, photo taken by Arielle Raveney.
“Kindness”
Anonymous leaves a message to be kind on the Greenbelt trail in Kingwood, Texas. Photo taken by Arielle Raveney.
“Hello, Goodbye”
A bench decorated by locals on the Greenbelt Trail in Kingwood, Texas. Photo taken by Arielle Raveney.
“Spirituality”
From left to right, Janel O’Shea, Erin O’Shea and Mike O’Shea take part in Sunday church via an online service, photo taken by Arielle Raveney.
“Free Food”
Green Tree Elementary School in Kingwood, Texas, shares the message of their free meal initiative. Photo taken by Arielle Raveney.
