A number of people have asked ‘So Lou, has the art world shut down because of Covid’. Well, I think we all shut down a bit for the first few days – if you were anything like me you took the opportunity to clear out a few cupboards and wash down your walls. But thankfully, that novelty has passed and the time has come to re-engage, to do some things we had been meaning to and perhaps even start a little art project at home. In this blog (which I am promising myself to do weekly – lets see how that goes :/), I am going to share five things you can do to keep yourself engaged in the art world during lockdown and importantly, maybe help an artist along the way.
Idea 1. Drool over Titian at the National Gallery
Sadly, I didn’t get to see this exhibition before the National Gallery closed, but I think this video “Titian, Love, Desire and Death’ presented here by Dr Matthias Wivel has to be the next best thing. Not only does he give great insight on Titian himself, but his explanation of the works is one of the most illuminating descriptions of what it is to be human that I have ever heard. I am not sure which is sexier – Titian’s nudes or this bright, insightful presenter/curator. Something for everyone here and definitely, definitely my new art crush 😉
Idea 2. Follow the hashtag artistsupportpledge on Instagram
This amazing idea was conceived by artist Matthew Burrows from the realisation that the world was going to suddenly get a lot harder for artists during lockdown with many of their usual sales channels suddenly closed (galleries, art fairs, studio shows). The idea is simple. Artists post works for sale under the #artistsupportpledge for £200 or less. Once they have sold £1000 of work they purchase £200 of work from another artist – thus sharing the love. There are some lovely things out there and it is a small but significant way we can support makers and artists at this difficult time.
Here are a selection of the works available to buy.
Idea 3. Spend some time learning to how to paint Botanical Watercolours
Each week I am going to showcase a different way of doing art at home. First up are the amazing watercolour tutorials by Billy Showell. Billy has whole website dedicated to teaching people how to do botanical water colours and there really is something for everyone here. Try the ‘Seedling’ package (free and with taster tutorials), Full Bloom Per month (£11.99) or Full Bloom per year (£99.99).
Billy Showell is a fine artist herself and you really are learning from a master. A wonderful present for anyone who is stuck at home and has always wanted to try this challenging but beautiful medium.
Idea 4. Listen to an Art Podcast
I have to admit that listening to more podcasts (maybe just one podcast) is on my Corona Virus Isolation bucket list. I am going to start my art romp through podcast land with the podcast ‘Art Curious: Exploring the unexpected, the slightly odd and the strangely wonderful in art history‘ If the example below is anything to go by, this sounds right up my street. If anyone else has any recommendations on Art Podcasts that they have enjoyed I would love to hear.
Idea 5. Find art that you will love looking at for the next 4 months
If you have been looking at a wall thinking ‘I really must get something for that’ then now is your chance. We can do a zoom call (or Skype if that’s your thing), we can discuss light, atmosphere, size and style. This costs £150 and I will send you 10 ideas for your space.
Here is a piece a client bought only yesterday. I can’t help but feel this work is going to bring her great joy and sunshiney happiness.
If you want to look at something that give you as much joy then please get in touch on 07855 803509.
Louisa Warfield is an art consultant who is currently still finding work for clients homes and sacred spaces. She can be contacted on louisa@lousiawarfiedart.com or by phone on 07855803509.