With the pandemic forcing people to stay in their homes, many are experiencing isolation and cabin fever. Human beings aren’t meant to be stuck in small apartments and crowded houses, separated from nature and social activities. They can only sigh and look out the window, as many in-person events and community spaces like museums and galleries are canceled and closed from the public. Despite the many setbacks, artists find ways to promote their work and share their talents, such as through digital platforms or drive-in showcases. They know how influential art can be in uplifting people’s moods in these trying times.
Art gives comfort
Art has healing power as it can be a source of relaxation and entertainment. Something is refreshing when you witness a work of art unfolding on a screen or the canvas. It can be as entertaining as watching a social media influencer getting gold braces for better smiles or as uplifting as hearing musicians sing in their living rooms. Art can give people the distraction they need amid troubling and harmful news, which is detrimental to one’s mental health. It can also help people see the brighter side of every event and hold onto the hope that better things will come. People can express what they’re feeling or going through, which is a form of catharsis instead of keeping emotions bottled up. It’s comforting to find people who are in the same boat as you.
Art brings people together
The digital space has been the only way people can maintain interaction and connection with their friends and family. It has become a lifeline for those living alone or away from their loved ones, especially in the front lines. Artists help in improving everyone’s emotional stability as they can bring people together with their work. During the celebration of World Art Day last April, UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay emphasized how art can unite and connect people in times of crisis. She further adds that art can remind people that they are not alone in their struggle during the pandemic. Many are using the power of art to hold fundraising events and make the needed resources free and accessible.
Art boosts productivity
Learning something new will stave off the feelings of anxiety and helplessness that the pandemic can cause. Learning art such as playing an instrument, dancing challenging choreography, and painting easy illustrations can ignite people’s creativity and productivity. Many artists are even offering free classes and templates that anyone can watch and download from the internet. It’s their way to keep everyone sane and stable during isolation. People can discover a hidden talent or develop their hobbies while getting to know themselves better. There’s no excuse for having no time to finally explore one’s interests they’ve been meaning to do.
This pandemic has shown how art plays a large role in improving people’s mental well-being. Artists spread hope and love through their talents, as they remind everyone that there is still a beautiful world out there. Things might be grim currently, but the sun will shine once again as it has in the face of great struggles and difficulties. History can attest to that.
