‘Art in Hard Times,´ 2020. Multi-media ensembled digitally. 36 in. x 72 in. Lives virtually.
How is this pandemic impacting us? People reflect on the layered happenings during COVID-19 lockdowns.
Art in Hard Times brought together 75 participants, 10 artist facilitators, and 8 organizations to foster connection and reduce isolation through creative expression during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic. The project invited people across Guelph to share reflections through audio/visual storytelling, resulting in a digital mural. Participants explored themes such as personal growth, collective resilience, social challenges, identity, and the natural world—offering layered insights into life during a time of global uncertainty.
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Facilitators: Lori Guest, Fan-Ling Suen, Kavya Yoganathan, Shera Mekhail, Michelle Miranda, Charity Cruz, Abby Nowakowski, Ahmri Vandeborne, Alisa McRonald, Michelle Peek.
Guest Artist Witness: Joni NehRita
Social Artist Lead & Facilitator: Melanie Schambach
Partner Organization: Art Not Shame, Guelph Neighbourhood Support Coalition
Funders: Canadian Red Cross, The Guelph Community Foundation, Centre for Community Engaged Narrative Arts, Canadian Mental Health Association, United Way, The Guelph Community Foundation, Guelph Community Response Fund
"As someone who recently came out and feels part of the LGBTQIA+ community, I have struggled with feeling valid in a community that I belong to. Due to internalized homophobia, our current society, and my own confidence with my sexuality I have had trouble feeling like my voice in this community is valid. As a white cis able-bodied female I hold a lot of privilege, and I recognize that my struggles within this community are far less than others. For this piece, I wanted to turn my insecurity on its head in an affirmation of “I BELONG”. These words hold me accountable, and help me to feel valid being who I am. I hope they can do the same for others. We all belong."
By Maeve