| | The impact of COVID-19 on Res Artis, our members, and the international arts residences field | |
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Dear Res Artis subscribers, How are you? We are now living in unprecedented and uncertain times. Like all our network members, Res Artis and the entire arts residencies field is being greatly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. By our very nature of facilitating quality international and national arts and cultural exchange, the field of arts residencies is one of the hardest hit. Necessary travel bans and physical distancing regulations have already resulted in the closure of arts and cultural organisations, dwindling of hard-earned self-generated income and the disappearance of arts residencies and outcomes. The ramifications of COVID-19 will be felt by arts residencies and artists for months and possibly years to come. But Res Artis is not just a network, we are family, and Res Artis stands in solidarity with our members and all those affected by this pandemic. There is strength in numbers, and our 750+ members across 85 countries are a collective community that is here for one another. We are also a global powerhouse of knowledge, skills and expertise. While physical distancing is necessary, we urge all members and subscribers to connect with the Res Artis board, staff and each other through our social media platforms. Links are included below: Res Artis Facebook Instagram Twitter LinkedIn Email At Res Artis we are working around the clock with stakeholders and key partners to adjust to these challenging times and ensure the sustainability of the arts residencies sector. While physical residencies can't take place right now, there is no better time to connect, learn from each other, and increase our capacity as a global think-tank. The Res Artis team are curating a suite of digital learning initiatives for our members in order to increase connection and productivity. Stay tuned for more details to be announced in our next newsletter to be sent out next week... In the meantime, our friends at On The Move and Circostrada have collated a comprehensive list of general advice, health and safety information, statements by networks, and online surveys by arts and cultural organisations that examine the impact of COVID-19. We encourage everyone to access this information and have your say. Every country and region is different, but many governments are putting in place emergency funding and stimulus packages for small business and not-for-profits impacted by COVID-19. I encourage all members and subscribers to explore funding options in your location. Despite the uncertainty and devastation, there is hope. The world watched as the epicenter of the pandemic, China, navigated through the pandemic. It is not over yet, but our colleagues at China Residencies share their tips and insights through this valuable blog. Arts residencies are literally life-changing experiences - not only for artists, but for anyone who encounters them. Arts residencies reflect the world around us, they engage diverse communities more so than any other arts sector, they bridge intercultural understanding and peace-keeping. When the COVID-19 pandemic is over, arts residencies will play a critical role in the re-emergence of national and international exchange. Arts residencies are our future. Stay safe, Res Artis Staff and Board |
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