WANTED: Your Ideas on How Artists & Creatives Can Thrive While Sheltered in Place

Wow! So much has changed in recent weeks.

Our normal, predictable lives have been turned upside-down.

People in the performing arts in particular (musicians, actors, venues, and those who support them) have seen their livelihoods disappear.

Yes, these are challenging times.

It’s also a time when we can let our creativity shine!

In my view, artists are better equipped than most to find solutions and think beyond the normal.

Here are some silver-lining thoughts about ways artists can respond to social distancing and self quarantines.

But, most important, I want YOUR IDEAS on ways you are staying active and continuing to create — and hopefully earning some income too.

What innovative things have you seen other artists do?

Please leave a comment below after you’ve read this!

I plan to compile the ideas and share them through a series of podcasts and blog posts.

I’ll start the conversation …

The obvious thing, which we’re already seeing, is for performers and presenters to deliver their goods online. Using tools like Skype, Zoom, Facebook Live, Twitch, and YouTube, creatives can still serve their audiences, and even request payment or tips during live broadcasts.

I did this very thing last night. I host a monthly improv comedy show with five other performers. When the venue had to cancel its events, we didn’t just throw in the towel.

Instead, we did a live show on Zoom. I already had a paid account. Each performer logged in remotely from home. About 40 people watched live and we generated more than $200 in tips.

It also opened my mind to a whole new way to share this amazing (and hilarious) art form. It’s something I may even continue doing after everything returns to “normal.”

Another way this has affected me is with my Music Marketing class at a local university. For the rest of this spring semester we’ll hold classes online only — also via Zoom.

Be prepared to see a LOT more of these live offerings in the weeks and months ahead. AND, do your part to support your favorite performers and teachers!

But what else can creatives do to continue sharing their talents and get paid for it?

What unique spin can be put on these live virtual events?

Again, leave a comment below and add to the conversation.

Beyond the business use of these streaming tools, what innovative ideas will emerge to connect people in real time?

Already I’m seeing Facebook watch parties growing. Netflix has a Chrome extension for watching movies and shows remotely with friends. It also allows viewers to chat in real time.

How else can friends gather online?

How about online trivia nights, costume parties, poetry readers, or paint parties?

While a lot of the focus is on being sequestered at home, what about small groups of people who meet outdoors?

As long as everyone agrees to remain six feet apart, could you organize a nature walk or bird watching group?

These are just a few of my thoughts. I would love to hear yours.

Please leave a comment below.

Hang in there. Together we’ll get through this!