The brave new world that is physical distancing has hit the arts community harder than most, if not all, sectors.
No more tours. No more shows. No more face-to-face interaction, at least in the flesh.
To that end, the Vancouver Art Gallery is returning some semblance of human connection to the fold with the introduction of its Arts Connect series.
Launching Tuesday, March 31, the new series will focus exclusively on “online gatherings that encourage dialogue and connection during this new age of physical distancing,” according to a news release from the art gallery.
“Art has the power to connect individuals, communities and cultures,” reads a press release from the art gallery. “No matter its form, art encourages communication, broadens perspectives, enriches the mind and renews the spirit. During challenging times, art can uplift the community through enriching and culturally meaningful experiences.
The new program is free to join and weekly conversations will be live-streamed on the gallery's Zoom channel. Upon registering, attendees can submit questions and chat directly with fellow attendees during the live stream.
Art Connects makes its maiden voyage at 1:30 p.m. on March 31, when curators Grant Arnold and Mandy Ginson will preview the exhibition, The Tin Man Was A Dreamer: Allegories, Poetics and Performances of Power.
“Presented at a time that coincides with presidential and congressional election campaigns in the United States, The Tin Man Was a Dreamer: Allegories, Poetics and Performances of Power is a subtle response to this historical moment,” notes a news release from the art gallery.
Another session is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. on April 3.
A link to register for Tuesday's online webinar can be found HERE.
