Zoom during pandemic
Art is an instrument in the war against the enemy. Pablo Picasso
We joined over the Internet to talk about our experiences as artists in this uncertain time.
The collective tragedy of the COVID-19 pandemic has made us feel humbled and small. The waves of emotions and the immensity of the catastrophe feels too big to express. “Who am I to think that I could portray the scale of this tragedy?”
Maureen and Kaitlin shared how debilitating their inner critics are. In this time of the pandemic, the inner critic is loud, taking advantage of our weaknesses. It’s hard to tell that inner critic to be quiet when she sounds so convincing. When we feel like we are coming apart at the seams, the inner critic is there to keep us from doing anything risky - especially art.
We are grateful to be safe, well-resourced, and with our loved ones. And we know that this is a privilege. We realize that people are suffering. Ana said, “How can I make art when others are in pain?”
But, then Ana remembered that when words fail, that’s when we can and must use images and music to communicate.
Kaitlin is journaling about her experience. She confessed to feeling a bit childish or self-centered about her writing. But, recently she reached a turning point and she found that she could, “turn the Particular into the General. The best storytelling and art is about personal moments.”
Kaitlin suggested that we can honor our personal experiences. When we sit and tell our stories, they become meaningful. People need stories. And sharing our own story helps us feel less alone. It gives our lives context and beauty. Kaitlin also recommended, “Be gentle with yourself,” she said. “It’s nice to be nice to yourself.”
And, yes, we need to be seen. That is what the Art Junket has always been to us - a supportive and positive place where we could honor our personal journeys and our art. Now, more than ever, we need a community to motivate us and bear witness to our originality.
I spoke of the need to express our creativity as a kind of wellness practice. Brené Brown wrote: “Unused creativity is not benign. It metastasizes. It turns into grief, rage, judgement, sorrow, shame.” (Brené Brown, The Gifts of Imperfection: Let Go of Who you Think You’re Supposed to Be and Embrace Who You Are. 2010.)
As artists in this uncertain time, there is one thing we know for sure - we need each other. Unexpressed wounds fester and shame grows like mold in the darkness of our thoughts. We need each other.
Thank you for being our audience, for inspiring us with your creativity, and supporting us with your feedback. We miss you. How are you doing?