This Matchstick Animation Helps People Understand the Importance of Social Distancing

 

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By now, pretty much everyone knows the importance of “social distancing” while we attempt to slow the spread of coronavirus. However, if you’re not exactly sure why it helps, perhaps this video created by LA-based artist Juan Delcan and his partner Valentina Izaguirre can help. Titled Safety Match, the now-viral animation shows a single line of burning matchsticks, until one matchstick steps out of the line, effectively breaking the chain and stopping the fire (aka the virus) from spreading.

The animation was inspired by a similar, viral image, showing a row of burned matches with one match removed from the line, resulting in all of the other matches being saved from the flames. Delcan and Izaguirre have actually been creating animations of matchsticks for some time (Delcan directs and Izaguirre builds the sets). While their other animations depict lighthearted scenarios, the Safety Match video shares an important message. Delcan posted the video on Twitter earlier this week with the following caption: “Do your part and stay home. It’s all we can do.”

As of writing, the video has over 800,000 views on Instagram and over 3,500 shares on Twitter. Even TV personality Katie Couric and actress Olivia Wilde have shared the video, in a bid to better inform their followers.

Watch the video below and check out more of Delcan and Izaguirre’s animations on Instagram.

Want to learn more about how you can help stop the spread of coronavirus? Here’s how “flattening the curve” saves lives.

This animation by Juan Delcan and his partner Valentina Izaguirre shows the importance of social distancing amidst the coronavirus pandemic.

Here are some other animations from their portfolio.

 

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A post shared by Juan Delcan, Valentina (@juan_delcan) on

 

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A post shared by Juan Delcan, Valentina (@juan_delcan) on

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Juan Delcan, Valentina (@juan_delcan) on

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Juan Delcan, Valentina (@juan_delcan) on

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Juan Delcan, Valentina (@juan_delcan) on

Juan Delcan: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
h/t: [designboom]

All images via Juan Delcan.

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Emma Taggart

Emma Taggart is a Contributing Writer at My Modern Met. Originally from Northern Ireland, she is an artist now based in Berlin. After graduating with a BA in Fashion and Textile Design in 2013, Emma decided to combine her love of art with her passion for writing. Emma has contributed to various art and culture publications, with an aim to promote and share the work of inspiring modern creatives. While she writes every day, she’s also devoted to her own creative outlet—Emma hand-draws illustrations and is currently learning 2D animation.
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