As the world still remains firmly in the grip of the Covid-19 pandemic, the way that we live our daily lives has changed forever. From how we work to how much time we spend seeing family and friends, the ‘new normal’ has impacted virtually every element of our lives including how we pursue our individual hobbies and interests. Like so many other industries, the arts has seen a huge shift over the last few months in how we access, create and enjoy art. Let’s take a closer look at how this important sector has had to change and adapt in order to provide art lovers with a little much-needed escapism.
Virtual art galleries
With art galleries all over the world having to close their doors in an attempt to halt the transmission of the virus, many forward-thinking institutions have harnessed the power of technology to welcome crowds of virtual visitors instead.
By taking exhibitions online, art galleries have been able to showcase their pieces to a much wider audience and attract ‘visitors’ from all over the globe. As this way of bringing art to the masses has proven to be so popular, we predict that virtual exhibitions might just be here to stay.
Buying art online
Sadly, heading to a local art gallery to purchase a new piece to adorn your wall is something of a challenge at the moment, but many with an appreciation of work from up and coming artists have been heading online to view and purchase new pieces to add to their collections.
Online sales of artwork have seen an impressive rise since the Covid-19 pandemic, with many taking advantage of the opportunity to see a plethora of artists and styles from the comfort of their living room.
Art as social commentary
As the coronavirus changes our world and how we perceive it forever, it comes as no real surprise that artists are using the topic to convey their experience through their work.
From incredible street art supporting the efforts of the NHS to politically charged pieces of work that make a judgement on how global governments have handled the crisis or artwork that depicts lonely streets that are usually bustling with throngs of people, we can also expect to see influences of the past few months creeping into the psyche and work of many up and coming new artists.
