In the days since COVID-19 was declared a global pandemic, events have been cancelled and resources have become scarce. For artists and arts organizations, that often means a dangerous loss of funds. Some are struggling with how to move forward during this time of uncertainty.
Many of us may not be personally vulnerable to the worst symptoms of the virus, but we all have loved ones who are. We all bear the responsibility to slow the spread of COVID-19 by following advice from the CDC to wash our hands often, stay home when we can, and practice social distancing until the danger has passed.
As state captains for Americans for the Arts, we are asking creators & arts organizations who are affected by this crisis to fill out the Coronavirus Impact Survey. It is designed to collect information about the financial and human impacts the pandemic has had on the creative community. The results of this survey will help us better advocate for artists and organizations at the local, state and national levels.
A wealth of online resources for the creative community can be found at the COVID-19 Freelance Artist Resources page. We also recommend the Artists in a Time of Global Pandemic webinar by Howlround.
Resources for advice and assistance:
U.S. Small Business Administration Disaster Assistance in Response to the Coronavirus
Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism
Hawaii Department of Labor & Industrial Relations
Creative Capital List of Arts Resources
Americans for the Arts COVID-19 Resource & Response Center
NEA COVID-19 Resources for Artists and Arts Organizations
Arts Education Partnership COVID-19 Resources
Fight rumors by checking official resources:
State of Hawaii Department of Health
Honolulu County (Oahu) Resources & Information
As artists, we disperse ideas and create communities. If you are able to teach or share your art online, please do so. Let's use our talents to spread the word on how to keep safe and sane during this crisis. Take care of yourself, your family, and friends. Keep your community in mind, and remember that we are all in this together, on these islands in the middle of the Pacific.