Dance Me to the End of Covid-19
Here we are after 26 days of stay-at-home orders in California. Measuring time seems useless as the hours and days start to blur, and planning for the future feels impossible. Usually when I am writing these blogs, I try to focus on topics that I personally need help with – and at this time it’s MOTIVATION.
During the first two weeks of isolation, I was taking it in stride. Putting on a brave face and following orders to keep everyone safe. Then my energy dramatically decreased as the bad news kept coming. My body now aches from the chronic stress of maneuvering this new reality.
For people in creative fields, the loss of work and opportunities creates even more insecurity and pressure. Now, on top of all the hustling they normally do, artists have to find new revenue streams, learn new technologies, apply for more grants or unemployment. Covid-19 has caused a financial and cultural crisis to accompany the pandemic with no certain end in sight. (some photos I snapped in SF last week)
So how are we to cope?
There are a million memes and bits of advice out there. I hesitate to add to the cacophony. But even if it’s just for my own sanity, I will share what has been working for me…
1. Start Fresh
Wake up reasonably early, open the shades to catch the first rays of sun and listen for birds chirping. I am always inspired by nature’s reminders that each morning we have the chance to start again. If you tripped up yesterday and feel regret, forgive yourself and move forward.
2. Set A Goal
Just one win – that’s all you need each day. Don’t make a list. Just ask yourself, What is one thing I can realistically achieve today? Maybe it’s just a chapter in a book, or organizing your studio. Long-term planning is beyond our reach at the moment, so focus on the next 24 hrs.
3. Assess Your State of Mind
In addition to my morning stretch, I’ve added a few minutes of meditation. Find a private corner of your house or studio, play some spa music and concentrate on the light behind your eyelids. Let go of thoughts, concerns, and deadlines for at least 5 minutes. Determine how you’re feeling on a scale of 1-10. If your number is low – go easy on yourself that day.
4. Find Resources
There are so many lists of links for loans and grants, it can be overwhelming. And when you consider how many people will be applying for help – more disheartening. My advice is to be strategic. Don’t waste time chasing unrealistic opportunities.
If you’ve had performances, exhibitions, classes or paid events canceled, emergency funding might be for you. Or if you are ill or caring for someone who is. Here are two of the best sites I have found for rounding up relief:
Artwork Archive Covid-19 Resources for Artists
Common Field (open document with links)
Studio photo of Flowers for Sick People by Tucker Nichols
5. Go Virtual
If you’re not eligible for emergency funding grants, you may want to start your own GoFundMe campaign or host an online sale of available art.
Here is one list of viable ways to sell your work online. It may take a few days to set up – but now is the time to do it. Even something as informal as an email to friends and family asking them to purchase work is a totally kosher thing to do in these uncertain times.
One inspiring idea is artist Tucker Nichols’ Flowers for Sick People. Tucker has offered to make drawings of flowers for “anyone who could really use them” and deliver them for a small donation. Click photo above to donate.
6. Dance, Laugh, Play and Dream Big
A sense of humor will get you through most anything. I adore the creative ways people have used their time at home to entertain each other. Whether its making TikTok videos with your teens or recreating famous artworks with your dog – take your mind off the news for a while and feed your soul. These past weeks I’ve held a solo-dance-party every day at 4:00. (see playlists below). I use headphones so as to not disturb my coworkers and spend 4-5 songs dancing like a maniac.
Finally, it’s ok to be happy and joyful and optimistic for the future. Daydreaming should be part a of your routine. Once we get out of this ditch, the road ahead will feel like a roller rink. What’s your disco fantasy?
