ART IN THE TIME OF CORONA™

During global turmoil, history dictates that art and artists matter more than ever. Artistic representations created in times of plagues, wars, persecution, political uncertainty, migration and natural disasters are significant, revered and even celebrated. In contrast to the media artist’s do not report on events, they record personal experiences. The artwork put forth by these creative correspondents reflect the realities of their lives, families and communities. 

Our current media outlets and news cycles can be unreliable, biased and sometimes discriminatory. Through such instability, artists can create an escape, inspire change and restore the human spirit. The world’s unity and restoration of hope will be accomplished through the work of muralists, sculptors, painters and photographers; as they will be the ones who observe and record the world’s truth.

Artwork doesn’t have to be sold to have value; but it does have to be made and it does have to be viewed. Art made in the time of Corona is unique in that we are experiencing this world health crisis in the digital age. Even though precautionary safety measures have closed major museums and manifested exhibition challenges for private galleries; art can still be viewed, it can be enjoyed and most importantly, it can make a difference. The online art community is abundant and thriving in spite of city quarantines and social upheaval. 

My expectation during this time of unrest is that artists will find meaningful perspective in chaos and construct defining artwork. My hope is that the viewer will follow suite and recognize the importance of the contemporary work being created in this moment.

Salud, 
Yessíca Torres