The Art Marketplace For Art Lovers, By Art Lovers.
As Covid-19 resurgences rock the world and people are forced back into lockdown, support for the fine art community grows once again. Back during the first round of lockdowns, people reached out to local artists for a dose of community and culture that was being taken away by the pandemic. One study found that 85% of its subjects were either consuming art or making their own in response to social distancing. Art gives meaning to life, and more so than ever, people need something to take their minds off of reality. In fact, visual art is being used to instill feelings of hope and positivity in the minds of consumers, which is much needed in these unprecedented times. Consuming local art also offers a social connection between art lover and artist. Of course, you also get to see some beautiful pieces, like Doina Bundaru’s “Covid-19 Lockdown March 31st”.
There are tons of ways to get your art fix during the pandemic, even with many galleries and museums being closed. Here are Bidgala’s top 10 choices:
1. Explore virtual galleries like Bidgala’s shop tab
Since social distancing started, many art galleries have closed for the foreseeable future. This has led many artists and venues to update their online presence. Customers and general art lovers can now explore their galleries from the comfort of home, and often for free. Skipping the lines to see the Mona Lisa and being able to zoom in as close as you want - allowing you to see every brush stroke, are just a few of the benefits of an online gallery. In fact, the Louvre has recently opened an online exhibit that takes enthusiasts on a virtual reality tour of Da Vinci’s painting of the Mona Lisa and the woman behind it, Lisa Gherardini.
2. Visit the google arts and culture website
A second option is to go through the Google Arts and Culture Site. Here, street view tours of many famous sites around the world and digital copies of art pieces are available. This includes Arnold Bocklin’s 1872 painting, “Self Portrait with Death Playing the Fiddle.” This resource allows you to travel the world; stroll through museums in Russia, or see up close images of the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel!
3. Follow local artists on social media A key way to connect with both local and international artists is through social media platforms such as Twitter and Instagram. Support through following and commenting allows artists to reach out to and interact with those who love their creations. Some artists you should check out on Instagram are; Elodie G. Fira @elodiegfira, Olivier Saint-Gelais @olivierstgelais, and Tea Ttchipashvili @ttch_paintings.
4. Check out art movements like ResiliArt
Artists have always used both words and their creations to speak up for those who do not have a voice. In times of political and social movements like Black Lives Matter and Greta Thunberg’s climate change talks, many artists have lent their creativity to the cause.
Another movement that is making waves in the art community during the pandemic is ResiliArt. This movement was founded by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization, (UNESCO). Its goal is to bring awareness to the struggles of creators during and outside of the global pandemic. There is discussion on infrastructure, funding and support of artists and other creators around the world.
5. Read artist audiobooks/magazines like Apollo
Another great resource is literature about art and artists’ lives. There are tons of books, ebooks, and audiobooks available with photos and stories about art and the experiences of artists. One option is Apollo, a global art magazine with cutting edge articles about the issues impacting artists and their works. Similarly, art magazines offer a selection of short stories, articles, and coverage of the various goings on of the art world.
6. Create your own art with online prompts like Inktober
If you want to take part in the art community, it is super easy to get started. One of the best ways to dabble in the creative arts is through international online prompts, like Inktober. These prompts offer daily or weekly suggestions which are followed and posted by thousands of people across the world, including both amateur and professional artists. This is a great way to become part of the community, connect with other artists and art lovers, and see the incredible scope of creativity present in the world, even during Covid-19.
7. Read Bidgala’s blogs all about the art community
Bidgala also offers an insight into the art world through its blog, which is constantly being updated with new articles about news, supplies, artist interviews and more. There is always something new going on, so be sure to check it out often!
8. Commission/buy your own art piece
Art is meant to be shared and admired. A fantastic way to do that and support the artists is to purchase a piece. No matter what your budget is, there is definitely something out there for you. Buying a piece of art for your home or office is a great way to connect with other art lovers, show your appreciation for artists and their craft, and showcase your style. If you are looking for a specific piece tailored to your tastes, many artists also offer commissions, where you can work directly with them to have a masterpiece made just for you.
9. Donate to nonprofits supporting creators during the pandemic like the Red Cross mural project
Artists rarely have a fixed income, and quality art supplies can be extremely expensive. There are many nonprofits in place around the world that help struggling artists, especially now that Covid-19 has forced many to cancel showings, give up event spaces, and close galleries. Donating to a non-profit organization can help artists who are impacted by Covid-19 continue to create amazing art.
One such example of an incredible non-profit organization is the Mural Project. Set up through the Red Cross, it offers a place for children and young adults who struggle with mental health/development, addiction or discrimination. The Mural Project is a non-judgemental space for kids to engage with their struggles through collaboration and the designing of a mural.
10. Take an online art/master class
Finally, an amazing way to engage with the art world is to learn from those within it. Many up-and-coming as well as famous artists offer classes online that cover a broad range of topics. With Covid, online classes have become commonplace, and the freedom to explore art from your own home has been one of the benefits of moving to online learning.
The world of art is broad and can be overwhelming, even for those who have experience navigating it. The addition of Covid-19 has taken away the ability to visit museums and galleries, but that is no reason to lose your connection to the art community. There are an immeasurable number of ways to still get involved, from joining an online painting or sculpture class, to donating to a non-profit that supports artists impacted by Covid-19. Art is an amazing way to connect to others and develop culture, which is even more important than before, now that we are facing uncertainty about the future of the pandemic. Luckily, the art world is here to offer a safe harbor during the storm.
