Seventeenth International Conference on the Arts in Society

Abstract

The global pandemic introduced tremendous stress into the lives of citizens around the world. As is often the case during dark times, many turned to the arts to find beauty and connection. This paper focuses on the reported experiences of an informal visual arts online group that met weekly throughout the pandemic. Data was gathered using mixed methods (survey with closed- and open-ended questions, focus group interviews) and examines how participants used the visual arts group to cope with the heavy burden of daily reality during this time of global crisis. Specific questions addressed include the extent to which the visual arts group was related to 1) the ability to cope with the stresses of pandemic life, 2) a sense of connection and belonging despite the isolation imposed by the pandemic, and 3) personal growth and self-awareness. Additionally, the project examines the perceived advantages and disadvantages of the group’s online format.