Home is where the Art Is
Herts Year of Culture 2020 (HYOC2020) is responding to the Coronavirus crisis by reminding Hertfordshire residents that whilst many events, schools and working in the office might be cancelled, creativity certainly isn’t.
Local artists and groups are finding ways to continue to deliver their creative content online or via activity packs which can be delivered or collected in line with current guidelines. HYOC2020 are sharing these resources wherever they can via social media channels and their new ‘What’s ONLINE’ section at www.creativehertfordshire.com.
A creative project can be a great way to keep children stimulated and engaged; it can alleviate feelings of stress and anxiety; it can bring people together online or it can simply be a way of passing the time.
Hilary Shade, Chair of Herts Association of Cultural Officers said: ‘We want to let everyone know that HYOC2020 is still carrying on but with a change in focus to online content.
‘We are keen to shine a spotlight on all the fabulous creativity that’s going on in homes throughout the county.
‘Creativity has been proven to improve mental health and wellbeing, which is particularly important at a time like this when things can seem overwhelming. It doesn’t have to be much, just a quick five-minute break from reality can help lift your mood.’
Inspirational ideas and activities can be found on www.creativehertfordshire.com.
Other activities to get involved with
Electric Umbrella have announced the launch of Electric Umbrella TV! Each day, people can join EUTV and their fantastic Music Presenters via Facebook and Zoom for singing, signing, fun and occasional mayhem. Shows are open to all ages (with and without a learning disability) and last 45 minutes. Weekday programmes are at 8am, midday, 4pm and 8pm. Full details and links can be found on www.electricumbrella.co.uk.
Trestle Theatre is setting a range of resources, challenges and ideas to help everyone stay creative over the coming weeks. Details are available on their website: www.trestle.org.uk/creativity-through-covid19.
Those who didn’t get a chance to visit the UHArts Plastic Matters exhibition can now do so via a virtual walkthrough at www.herts.ac.uk/uhbow/whats-on/2020-test/2020-spring-summer/plastic-matter.
Hertfordshire Music Service is sharing daily music activities and challenges on social media on twitter, follow @hertsmusic and #hertsmusicmoment.
There’s also loads of national projects taking place online giving access to a huge range of culture, creativity and heritage at everyone’s fingertips.