Online Art Exhibit: Youth and Adult

At the beginning of March of 2020, Whitley County Extension Fine Arts was looking forward to months of vibrant arts programming. This all came to a halt with the uncertainty caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. With social distancing, stay at home orders, and the closing of all non-essential businesses, Extension Fine Arts had to become even more creative in program implementation. A program planned for April that the arts program was very excited about was the “Artist of the Month” art exhibit, showcasing a local, up and coming artist.  He had been working on his pieces since last summer in preparation and was so excited to exhibit his work for the first time.

When the Fine Arts agent, Cortney Moses, broke the news of his show cancelation, he replied that “maybe he could put some pieces online.” Later that week Moses was approached by Fine Art Assistant, Mawnie Belcher, with that same great idea. Belcher had been brainstorming ways to showcase his work along with other talented artist in our community. She was planning two online art exhibits, one for youth and one for adults. A youth exhibit would be important because many of the youth were unable to display their art in school Open House events.  

Belcher and Moses worked out the logistics. Belcher put out a request for submissions on the Fine Arts Facebook page. The requirements included submitting 3 pieces of art work, a biography of themselves, contact information, and whether or not their art was for sale. The program received tremendous community response from local artists, professionals and hobbyists alike. Participants ranged from ages 3 and up. Belcher compiled, edited, and presented the art and artist information in a tasteful and professional manner. The videos were posted on Facebook and sent out through the Fine Arts Extension email list, reaching over 800 direct contacts.

Because of this Online Art Exhibit, the local community were viewing Whitley county artists virtual arts work in their homes. This also gave the community the opportunity to purchase art, straight from the artist. Many of our viewers were surprised and amazed of the talented artist we have in our area. Our community has been enriched through a virtual Art Exhibit connecting local artist, friends and family in a time of isolation.

As Belcher finalized the Art Exhibit she emailed the artist, sharing with them how their art had affected her, personally. Belcher felt their art was uplifting, innovative, brave, clever and stimulating.  In response, one artist wrote, “your words filled my heart this morning and brought a flood of memories in creating that special piece. Your email has unearthed emotions that I have been suppressing for a while and I can say it’s good to feel again.”