Closed galleries, canceled shows, distracted collectors, shelter in place orders, and (at least for me) paper towel shortages are some of the unprecedented challenges that we artists have to deal with during COVID-19, a.k.a. coronavirus. While it may look grim, there are things to consider doing to help mitigate the situation. Below I offer some advice for artists during a pandemic.

Slow Ride-Take It Easy

I recently had the incredible privilege of being the featured artist for what is arguably the most prestigious wildlife art show in the world. Receiving the announcement was an absolute thrill, but it came the pressure of deadlines, marketing, inventory lists, television interviews, travel, framing, not to mention finding a balance between creating work I loved and meeting the show’s expectations. Success can come with a cost, and sometimes that cost is a negative effect in your creativity.

While the current situation is very concerning, it may offer an opportunity. The whole world is on pause. Take this time as an opportunity to dig deep within yourself and further harness your artistic voice. Do that painting you always wanted to do but were never sure if the gallery would want it. Try that medium or subject matter you’ve always wanted to try. Now is the time to experiment and see if there is another side to you art that’s been chained up by the hecticness of schedules and sales.

The Best Is Yet to Come

Build up an incredible inventory of work so that when the market does come back, you have a fresh body of strong work to take out there. I think that masterpieces come when an artist removed outside expectations and immerses him or herself into their work. Take time to enjoy what you are doing and let your best work flow from that enjoyment.

Reach Out and Touch Someone-Sort Of

Collectors may not be able to see you at a show, but don’t let them forget about you. Call them and ask how they are doing. Don’t try to sell them anything, just be genuine and speak to them like you would a friend. If artwork comes up talk about it, but don’t force the subject. This is a good thing to do regardless, and it will keep them thinking about you. Who knows, they may want to buy something to hang on their wall during their confinement.

Advice for Artists During a Pandemic-Take It Online

If your show was cancelled, consider having it online or suggest your gallery have an online show. During this time social media is more popular than ever. Build up excitement by showing one painting a day and pointing them to your website or blog. Tell the story about each painting and give them escape from their confinement. Don’t forget to send out regular E-newsletters showing collectors your latest work. Keep them thinking about you.

Team Up

There is strength in numbers and now is the time when artists need strength. Many great things have come about through groups like The California Art Club, The Salmagundi Club, The Cowboy Artists of America and others. Perhaps there is a certain artist niche that could be represented by an organization of artists to promote it and raise awareness. One of the latest iterations of this concept has been the success of the plein air movement. If you have time and organizational skills, this may be a good time to get something started.

Don’t Stop Believing

The best advice for artists during a pandemic is don't give up. What we are facing is unprecedented. But I also like to think that perhaps this is a type of reset that will prove to be positive for artists. The smartphone and the internet have drastically changed our culture. And while these things have provided new opportunities for artists, they have also had a negative impact. The constant distraction and instant gratification of online electronics have turned the culture’s attention away from fine art and more toward their Retina screens. I like to think that after weeks or months of confinement with nothing but the internet to provide escape, people will come out of this with a new longing and appreciation for real beauty. This can only help those who have committed themselves to creating real things of beauty.

Please leave your comments or questions below and don’t forget to subscribe. Having doubts about your work? You may find this article helpful. Also, visit my website at www.JasonTako.com and see video demonstrations on my YouTube channel.

Jason Tako is a nationally known fine artist who specializes in western, wildlife, plein air, and Historical Native American subject matter. He spent his learning years sketching the wetlands and wooded areas of rural Minnesota. He has been featured in Plein Air Magazine and Western Art Collector Magazine and he was the Featured Artist for the 2020 Southeastern Wildlife Expo. See his work at www.JasonTako.com and his demonstrations on his YouTube Channel.