To art enthusiasts, collectors and supporters.

To gallerists, curators, directors, managers and admin officers.

To art suppliers, framers, carriers, and restorers.

To art lecturers, tutors, teachers, arts writers and students.

To auctioneers, auction houses, art specialists and appraisers.

To art dealers, advisors, valuers and consultants.

Together we are facing the perils of the COVID-19 virus, the impact of which is having an immediate knock-on effect across our sector.

We all know in our hearts that the virus will eventually be defeated, but in the meantime, we need to do what we can with the tools and expertise we have to support our industry.  Collaboration, partnering, sharing of resources, and hey, even ideas, will go some way to averting complete amelioration of our chosen profession. 

For many of us, the loss of interaction with our clients, collectors and colleagues will be initially, strange and even disconcerting.  Send a text message to a colleague; phone a client; send an email to a collector, above all, stay in touch and know that all of us, in amongst the bravado of some, are fearful of what the future holds.

The economic impact of the virus is and will continue to be profound, and will affect most of us, with small businesses and sole proprietors, which permeate much of the arts landscape, remaining particularly vulnerable.  Whilst some government assistance has been announced to cushion the fall, mostly for public institutions, there will be a shortfall. 

With the latter in mind, we need to bravely reach out beyond our usual and comfortable spheres and seek support of the arts via different and perhaps, unique channels.

Which is why I will support anyone who is brave enough to politely ask:

·       you to keep your magazine subscription;

·       you to consider buying an artwork;

·       you to visit their online gallery and stockroom;

·       you to subscribe to their newsletter

·       you to buy a self-published catalogue;

·       for an introduction or referral; and

·       for help – with anything….

Stay safe.  Stay well.  Stay connected.

#art #contemporaryart #livewithart #DontCancelCreativity #stayconnected