While we’re either in mandatory lock down or we’re choosing to do so voluntarily, during the Coronavirus pandemic, we can choose from an array of opportunities to pursue indoor activities to improve ourselves. I recently posted a discussion on Facebook asking artists what they are doing now. I was delighted to receive many replies from artists around the world. In this article artists share positive ways they are using time in isolation to improve their lives, art and careers.
I encourage you to visit the artists’ websites to learn more about them. And, please follow me on Facebook.
Positive Posts by Artists on Facebook ~ Part II of a Series
Barbara Rachko, NYC, NY artist, shared, “Renee, I work very hard so have decided to take a temporary break from art. On sunny afternoons now I sometimes go for two-hour walks. (I can tolerate my 700 square foot West Village apartment for only so long). I‘m using this time to observe, to photograph, and to think. I am noticing so many positive environmental changes: ”the city that never shuts up” for once is quiet (instead of traffic, I hear geese honking as they fly over the Hudson), the air is clean and fresh (I breathe deeply testing for the usual CO2 smell and it’s gone), the skies have turned deep blue since there’s no smog, etc. Nature is restoring balance and healing itself. New York has rarely looked more beautiful! The change and how fast it has happened are stunning. I cannot help but think that we humans are the real virus. barbararachko.art
Smita Srivastav wrote “Namaste from India. Thank you for asking. I have always been a home loving person. These times have given me more time with my family. But I squeeze in sessions of painting. Recently I painted a watercolor named “Pink Roses for Hope” to uplift the mood. Hobbies like painting keeps us positive and happy. Planning to start oil painting today. Meanwhile I do lots of sketching practice. Prayers for everyone to be safe and healthy. smitasrivastav.in
Puneeta Ranjan from Pune, India, commented, “In these uncertain times , it becomes very important for artists to inspire people to keep their hope and faith alive ! That is the gift we have and also our calling . I’m using this time to create works on quarantine , aesthetics and solitude . I share these on social media to bring out the feeling of solidarity and joy . I am also reading Artists’ biographies, browsing museums , learning different techniques, reflecting and thinking a lot and penning down my ideas.
Keith Morant is from New Zealnd. The artist wrote, “We are in total lockdown and life in New Zealand is a little strange. For me though it is not so different. Working every day on new projects in my ‘Nursery’. Here is my latest large canvas: MORANTIVIRUS.” morantart.com.
Catherine Trezek explained, “I’m taking this time to do some inner reflection on what drives me, and to update my artist statement. I’m always trying to update it, but this time, rather than just clarify ‘my statement’, I’m reassessing ‘myself’. Digging deep into my thoughts during inspiration and how they emerge into my process. I’m discovering that I’m trying to force myself into an ideal that I have created for myself, rather than understanding what ‘really’ drives me from within.”
Linda Watson shared, “Aloha from the Big Island of Hawaii. I am using this time to update my website. I have also returned to oil painting and I am trying new ways to add texture and different elements. Stay safe and thank you for all that you do for artists everywhere.” lindaswatsonartist.com
Agnes Jorgensen reported, “I have been working diligently with an amazing web developer, Katie Ayres to redesign my website. I am excited that we are now days away from the launch. While going through this process of sorting photos and articles, I realize moreover the community of people, family, friends and clients who have supported me along the way. This uncertain time has allowed me the time to reflect, to be thankful and Grateful for all the wonderful people in my life.” jorgensenart.com
Renee McGinnis told us, “I’m home schooling my kids here in Chicago, cooking a lot and much housework. I guess I’m laid off for now. When I do paint, it’s with urgency.” reneemcginnis.com
Cynthia Lizardi wrote, “I just stopped work at my son’s daycare (temp closure) so I have been trying to set a new structure for us. Morning time with breakfast + Mickey Mouse followed by painting with mommy in her “painting room”. I hope to record and stream painting to share for a nice break from all the doom and gloom in our newsfeeds.” cynthializardi.com
Frank Juarez announced, Hello Renee. I created The Art Heals Movement. The Art Heals Movement is one way to stay connected with others remotely in this time of need, comfort, and healing. With an increase in cancellations throughout Wisconsin and across the globe, I cannot imagine life without art, openings, studio visits, etc. The unknown is nerve-racking. So, instead of thinking about the things we are discouraged or cannot participate in, I’ve decided to put as much art into this world as possible. artdosemagazine.com/the-art-heals-movement
Jude Pittman stated, “I’m painting everyday. In the afternoon I listen to news and commentary to stay informed. Also, I’ve been sharing a lot of art in social media and looking at other artist’s work. judepittmanart.com
Marleen Pauwels wrote, “Since we are in complete lockdown here in Spain I have been working non stop. In the morning, I do a lot of sketching, gesture drawings and sometimes listen to one or two tutorials that I find interesting. Afternoons are for painting and in the evening, trying to keep up my social media art network. Although not intentionally, my work reflects the isolation right now.” marleenpauwels.com
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