Gea Carr and Birtu Belete, daughter and granddaughter of BAD’s James Carr, have found their own creative way to bond and bring joy to others while sheltering at home during the coronavirus pandemic. With Gea’s husband David Adams joining as photographer, the pair have taken to dressing up along themes ranging from Star Wars to Grey Gardens. Gea spoke with us about what the project has meant for their connection to community and costuming as creative expression. Check out the interview and a gallery of some of Gea and Birtu’s #Quaranthemes below!

3RP: What are some of the best comments you’ve received about your efforts?
Gea Hammer Carr: We get a lot of amazing comments! We are so surprised by how many people tell us that they look forward to our posts each day. I think our favorite though was from our cousin who is a doctor struggling during this crisis. She loved our post and called it a “very nice salve after a rough week.”

3RP: Before COVID, you and Birtu have a few instances where you’ve also dressed up (i.e. Tabasco).
Could you describe what draws you two to express your creativity in this way?
GHC: Our family has always enjoyed themed dinners and parties. We have large family gatherings where people wear similar outfits and themed parties all time. We both have a background in fashion and are used to get getting dolled up. It’s kind of second nature for us.

3RP: How do you come up with ideas—is it collaborative? Do you take suggestions?
GHC: We don’t spend too much time picking the themes. We usually decide last minute but we always come up with themes together. We have taken a few suggestions and think it’s so fun that people are giving us their requests!

3RP: Which is your favorite one that you’ve come up with during Quarantine?
GHC: We really loved our safari quarantheme. It came together so organically and it made us feel like we were on an adventure. We also had a lot of fun with Coachella and Grey Gardens.

3RP: How many people have you reached with your posts—individual high # and collectively?
GHC: We received a bit of attention for this. There was a fun yahoo style piece and even a local news segment! On Instagram and Facebook we’ve reached several thousand friends and family members.

all photos ©david adams