The Global Impact of COVID-19: Art, Education, and Social Change

Ongoing Challenges

The world continues to grapple with the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Headlines remain dominated by the virus, with many people losing jobs and economic crises emerging amidst widespread chaos. Social gatherings have become scarce due to distancing measures, as humanity wages war against an invisible enemy. Even after the pandemic ends, the fear of disease will linger, potentially widening the emotional distance between individuals.

Organizations such as companies, schools, and churches have adapted to this new reality by leveraging cloud computing technology. This allows them to share information and sustain daily life online, a method familiar from longstanding educational practices. However, questions arise regarding the extent to which online platforms can facilitate emotionally driven art education. E-Art, which combines emotional and character education, holds significant value. Engaging with cultural arts in virtual spaces could mark the beginning of a new industry, teaching beneficiaries the art of empathy.

Art Project Triumphing Over COVID-19: Home MuralFest

Amidst these challenges, artists worldwide have united through the Home MuralFest project. They create and share artworks within limited spaces, transcending boundaries in places like living rooms or studio walls. These pieces explore themes of inner and outer boundaries, shared online with messages of support and encouragement.

Alex Senna
Before and After Home MuralFest
©courtesy-the-artist

Brad Downey and NAME
Before and After Home MuralFest
©courtesy-the-artists

Ella Pitr
Before and After Home MuralFest
©courtesy-the-artists

Vibrant Graffiti by Chilean Artist Dasic Fernandez

Artists increasingly showcase their work on social media, with Chilean-born Dasic Fernandez being a prominent figure. Inspired by hip-hop culture, he began painting streets and walls in cities worldwide.

• Dasic at work on his mural inside the Wynwood Walls
• All Fighters Go To Heaven, Wynwood Walls & Art District, Miami
• Collaboration with Rubin 415 for Centrefuge Public Art Project in Green Point, Brooklyn
• Public Space, Landscape Architecture at Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
  photo by VIP films

Bob Ross: A Timeless Art Educator

Known more familiarly as "Bob Ross," the artist taught painting on the TV show "The Joy Of Painting" for 11 years in the 1990s. With his charismatic persona and his catchphrase "It's so easy," he empowered viewers of all skill levels. His inclusive teaching philosophy made his TV art class a successful example of emotional education. During the pandemic’s prolonged isolation, Bob Ross's episodes are available for free on YouTube, offering a chance to find peace during these challenging times.

• Watch Bob Ross Episodes
• Bob Ross Twin Peaks River/ Oil Paintings on canvas
• Bob Ross Rivers Peace/ Oil Paintings on canvas

Courtesy of Bob Ross Inc.

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