So – how are we all doing? As of this writing, with public gatherings discouraged and recommended isolation periods lengthening indefinitely all I can say is – times sure are changing fast.
Certainly, no one can be unaffected by the deepening global health crisis. Some of us are more fortunate than others in terms of the relative calm of where we are living, and the degree to which we can make arrangements to continue working and supporting ourselves in a socially-distanced manner.
I have a private studio space where I am able to isolate myself (well, with my dogs…), so I find myself able to continue a lot of my work – albeit, with an unusual level of distraction and a great deal of uncertainty about the future. My heart goes out to those many, many others who are far more gravely impacted. Needs obviously vary hugely from person to person. What I can offer are a few resources that have been helpful to me, and to those around me. If any of this aids you, check back here for updates – it is apparent that we are going to be doing this for awhile…
If you’re in a position to offer donations, or are an artist in need of aid:
- Cerf+: The Artists Safety Net: CERF+ happens to be based near me in Vermont, but offers support and emergency aid to artists nationwide. Given the current explosion in need, CERF+ has announced that, for the time being, their own emergency relief grants related to Covid-19 will go to artists who are infected with the virus and in need of medical care. However, in addition to these grants, the Cerf+ website offers links to a number of other other organizations offering emergency resources.
- Vermont Arts Council: The Vermont Arts Council supports artists and arts organizations in Vermont in a variety of ways, and in this time of need is offering grants to help Vermont artists suffering financial losses due to Covid-19. In addition, the VAC website provides links to other organizations offering emergency assistance.
If you could use some artistic inspiration right about now:
- Check out the website of any artist or arts organization you’re interested in – all manner of art and performances are available online! My personal local (local-ish) favorite resource is Clark Art.
- For the theatrically inclined, Sir Patrick Stewart is reading one Shakespeare sonnet each day – highly entertaining on instagram. Thanks, Sir Pat!
- The J. Paul Getty Museum has caught on to people creatively reconstructing artworks using all manner of tools, props, and household pets – consider submitting your own best effort on their twitter. Good luck besting Madonna with Pug.
- Like opera? Wonder if you might like opera? The Metropolitan Opera is streaming one full length opera each day. We did just miss Wagner week, so sorry if Tannhäuser is your favorite thing ever – that was yesterday.
If you need cold, hard, accurate data about Covid-19 and its spread, sit down first. And wash your hands. But, here’s where you can go for the latest updates:
Now, wash your hands again.
