"Necessity is the mother of invention" - Art Shows During COVID

The phrase “necessity is the mother of invention” has proven its worth during this pandemic. Ontario is now under its third lockdown and we are all feeling the pandemic blues.

I found yesterday particularly tough. Yesterday was my youngest grandson’s third birthday and it was the second time during this pandemic that I had to miss the celebration.

So at this point I have a choice here. I can allow myself to sink further into a funk or I can take advantage of what is immediately available to me to help keep my spirits up. Note that by this I do not mean finishing off a nearby bottle of wine lol.

There are options. Today is sunny and mild and there is a park system nearby. Spending time outdoors definitely helps to uplift my mood. I have lots of art supplies and blank canvases. I have to admit its getting difficult to find the inspiration to paint lately but usually once I get started, it does propel me to want to finish a piece and that can be rewarding and at the least, a learning experience.

So what does all of this have to do with art shows? Out of necessity due to the lockdowns, many artists, art clubs and organizations have had to move their operations online. It is forcing us all to learn new skills (whether or not we wanted to).

I am fortunate to be a member of the Don Valley Art Club. Beginning last spring in the first lockdown, the art show committee scrambled to learn how to move our biannual live show to an online venue. Since then, we are now showcasing our third online show. The art show committee has done a professional job of showcasing all the members’ work online for the general public to view and/or purchase at their leisure. All members owe this committee a debt of gratitude.

So without further adieu, Don Valley Art Club’s Spring Online Show & Sale (its 3rd online show), is now live! Over 100+ artists are showcasing up to four pieces each for your viewing enjoyment.

I do miss interacting with all of you art enthusiasts during live art shows and festivals and I am looking forward to the return of such in the near future. For now we have a great online option. With a (optional) glass of wine in hand, “I hope to see you online” at the spring show.

Cheers!

Below are my submissions and description links to the show.