Social Arts
‘Art in Hard Times,´ 2020. Multi-media ensembled digitally. 36 in. x 72 in. Lives virtually.
Art in Hard Times invited 75 people, 10 art buddies, and 8 organizations to generate a sense of community and decrease isolation through artistic audio/visual recordings which comprises a massive digital mural.
Feel connected. During this time of social isolation, we have the opportunity to feel our emotions, reflect on our life purpose, and learn better ways of being. But it may be hard to do this alone in full isolation. In the project, participants have many opportunities to connect with other Guelph locals to play, engage in art making, and reflect deeply about these times.
Voice the messages of today for the generations of the future. We are living a time when large masses of people are protesting on our streets all over the world demanding justice in the face of racial discrimination and white supremacy.
The pandemic and these movements are interconnected, and many elders are encouraging us to stand up and turn this moment into a gateway for a better future.
The finished mural is today a virtual megaphone sharing stories to a wider public.
Check the Website for the project HERE.
Support Artists/Facilitators: Lori Guest, Fan-Ling Suen, Kavya Yoganathan, Joni NehRita, Shera Mekhail, Michelle Miranda, Charity Cruz, Abby Nowakowski, Ahmri Vandeborne, Alisa McRonald, Michelle Peek.
Lead Artist/Facilitator: Melanie Schambach
"As someone who recently came out and feels part of the LGBTQIA+ community, I have struggled with feeling valid in a community that I belong to. Due to internalized homophobia, our current society, and my own confidence with my sexuality I have had trouble feeling like my voice in this community is valid. As a white cis able-bodied female I hold a lot of privilege, and I recognize that my struggles within this community are far less than others. For this piece, I wanted to turn my insecurity on its head in an affirmation of “I BELONG”. These words hold me accountable, and help me to feel valid being who I am. I hope they can do the same for others. We all belong."
By Maeve