Adapting the Arts

Arts organizations across the globe are facing harsh realities as a result of COVID-19. Most devastating will be the loss of sustaining funds. The Arts rely on community interest, support, and investment. But with their doors closed to the public, how can these organizations encourage community engagement when what they are able to offer the public is limited, and their communities don’t have disposable income to spend on the “nonessentials.”

For artists, their work has never been “nonessential,” it is a fundamental part of who they are. Even at a time when the primary concern is making sure the most basic needs are met, people are still creating. And there is an audience to be found. Thousands of people are tuning into livestreams of living room concerts, watching Shakespeare plays on Youtube, and virtually touring museums all over the world. But it’s no small challenge for many arts organizations to adapt to a virtual landscape.

At Arts Center East, we are pleased to continue to bring art to the public. All the artwork accepted into the Academic Artists Association annual exhibit can be viewed online. The upcoming juried multimedia exhibit, New England Charm, is accepting submissions online and the resulting exhibit will also be accessible on the website. Photos from past exhibits are also online in the Virtual Gallery. And while viewing exhibits this way doesn’t have the same feel as visiting the exhibit in person, we are proud to still be an arts destination.

Even some of our teachers are embracing virtual classes. Jane Penfield’s Pastel Painting classes have moved online, with great success. Her students shared some feedback with us:

"The video sessions were just wonderful and incredibly helpful. Jane, you are an excellent teacher. So interesting to see your process. The intellectual decisions based on knowledge and experience, and the artistic intuitive choices that set each artist apart from the other. If nothing else, I am learning and growing."

"I think you have conquered teaching on zoom. What a wonderful format which obviously compliments your weekly lessons and individual attention you provide to each of us. It is a pleasure to be part of your class."

"The video demonstrations are great! It's like being together in class again."

And this online format has allowed us to engage with students from across the country, since they don’t need to drive to the Arts Center to participate. Many of our Artist Members too are sharing their creativity with one another online. Facebook groups have allowed artists to share their work and exchange feedback while remaining safely at home.

In order for Arts Center East to keep adapting, we do need help from the wider community. If you are able, please make a donation to our GoFundMe campaign to keep Arts Center East a thriving arts destination for all.