What is the future of ART ?

The moment everyone starts believing in the democratization of Art, is the moment the whole world shuts down. Closed bars, museums, art galleries. Cancelled festivals and every artistic performance. Everything based on a human gathering is now prohibited and considered extremely dangerous, due to pandemic contagion threats.

Almost like a sad sarcastic joke. Yet it happened. A joke among many others that we all had to deal with in real life this time. And for the first time in the known human history. Yet once again, afraid from the unseen. Art is one from many industries that are dying slowly and nobody is raising a single word about it, not even to mention funds.

How long can humanity survive a global depression ? Is it even okay for artists to keep on performing their Art during this pandemic ?
Let's say they decide not to. How many of them will actually receive funds to survive from their government ? Not much. When we really think about it. It is just a matter of time until they start selling their gear for survival matters. Only the rich can survive and stay responsible. Art is not only a hobby, it is a full global industry that all humanity is part of. So there is no ending in sight yet... But only an obligation to evolve.

Are all performers going underground ?
Certainly not. Going underground looks like the new trend. More and more artists are choosing to maximize their profit. As more independent artist distribution services become available. It can somehow be a getaway from a system that has failed them. Yet is it the wisest decision to make during this pandemic ?

There are many possibilities that might help artists reach their audience and fans. Going underground after a surface experience is not one of them.

Depression, fear, panic, and paranoia are the main factors that keep people from entertainment and spending money on Art. As it it considered as a luxury. Exactly as it was perceived hundreds of years ago. The tools to make art cost money, and the priority goes to food storage and health supplies. The reasons behind the propaganda created around every pandemic in every country can be discussed. But sometimes, it is the fastest tool to stop the people from gathering when the contagion is made through human contact.

The first possibility is to overcome these feelings, with the consumer. As an artist, during this crisis you should definitely stop feeling like a fallen angel, and use your art as a product. Instead of working alone, learn how to work with others on improving your performance. Learn new ways on how to make it accessible to people without having to go to a venue. Make your art derivable. Collaborate with other artists around the world and try to create something new. The whole world is waiting for innovation.

The second possibility is to go Digital. It can be streaming, selling art, opening an e-shop, or teaching your art to others.
Having a professional website and is no longer reserved for signed artists. If you are independent, you from all these people should have a presence on the search engines. This is not the time to be unknown and hidden and rare. This is the time to go out from your circle and be open to global circles. Creating a global network on internet can attract many opportunities to your window if you stop waiting for someone to knock on your door and ask you to come perform at a venue. Even festivals are going virtual.

The third possibility is to find another job. Everyone can change their life if they need to. You have the right to be wrong at some point. But you also have the duty to respect your Art. Don't just let go of what you are passionate about, don't let go of your dream to make your art reach all humanity or at least a small part of it. If you didn't lose inspiration, if you still have that burning flame inside of you to create something totally lit. Or something that means a lot to you. You should know that you are wanted, you are one of a few.
If you think that only normal people got depressed when all of this started, you are wrong. A lot of artists lost their inspiration. Many chose to focus on other matters or start businesses. Many got fired from their jobs because of the economical conjuncture.
If you can still produce, if you produce better than ever, then you are the one to help save art during this pandemic. You are one of many.

It is not easy to hold on while the world is asking you to let go. But only you can feel the magic of your creation while creating it. If the whole world told you there is no way to make it through. Think of another way to do it.