Above are four qualities artists possess that we all must look to as we adjust our programs and events as well as our own internal methods and values. With these words as my mantra, I want to offer some actionable items and thoughts for our creative community as we each decide how we will respond to COVID-19.
1. Make Art!
Artists, the time to do your work is now. Play your love, write your feelings, draw your passions. Share with the world the value of creativity, adaptability, resourcefulness, and empathy. Lift us up. We look forward to seeing your response and your artwork at our
Kittitas County Open Show
and in the community. No doubt, artists will play an important role for us in the coming months. Your voice is important. I've been inspired over the years by an organization called
Amplifier.org
. There are a lot of really amazing things happening in the world, take heart that your art will help us as we move forward as a society. If you’re looking for inspiration, check out this You Tube Channel,
The Art Assignment
. Share what you make with the hashtag #galleryoneellensburg to find each other.
2. Learn something new.
Outside of your art practice, spend time sharpening your other skills. Consider broadening your technical, grant writing, and social networking skills. Channeling Bob Ross, we at Gallery One will be investigating a series of online workshops so that you can access these resources from your studio! If you are a resource for online platforms, please reach out to me. In addition, check out these great organizations:
I plan to watch some episodes of
Art21
, possibly revisit my audio book collection that includes books such as Elizabeth Gilbert's,
Big Magic
and hopefully some new books that
I haven’t read yet
. Of course, I have my favorite NPR podcasts like this last one about developing a creative habit on
LifeKit.
3. Take C.A.R.E. of yourself!
Sleep more, walk more, and breathe. Know that you are not alone. Locally, statewide and nationally, people are thinking about you. Here are some organizations to be aware of that are working for artists.
Artist Trust
, in addition to other resources, is conducting a survey on how COVID-19 is affecting your life.
ArtsWA,
the Washington State Arts Commission, is compiling a list of resources and up to date recommendations.
As everyone in our community, we are feeling the impact of COVID-19 and doing our due diligence to be thoughtful and responsive. Please visit our
Facebook page
and
website page
for up-to-date information on schedule changes. Please support what we do through a
membership
. I welcome your ideas and resources you might have to offer for us as an organization and for our artists.
With C.A.R.E.,
Monica Miller
Executive Director
