Artists based in Long Beach found new ways to showcase their artwork during the pandemic by building online and social media presence.
Long Beach art museums have put a hold on reopening because of COVID-19 regulations. This has forced artists to find innovative ways to get their art seen by the public.
Christine Nguyen, a Long Beach artist, said “I have recently done some IG live virtual studio visits with the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art and recently an IG live talk with curator of the Long Beach Museum of Art, Paul Lloya, in their downtown space with my installation in the background.”
In addition to online events, artists have also found the importance of building their online presence; especially their social media.
“I have been trying to update my website since the pandemic and be more active on social media,” said Nguyen.
Due to all museums and installations coming to a halt, artists have also had to adapt where they create their art.
Most artists have their own art studio or space. Elyse Pignolet, a Long Beach ceramic artist said, “I transformed my bedroom into a painting studio and my ceramic studio is not near my home so it’s been difficult to find the time to go there.”
“Early last year, in March, I was doing a lot of work on paper and I would go to my studio and make as much work as I could then bring it home and be with my kids while they’re in school,” said Pignolet.
It has been difficult for artists to get their work seen by the public due to COVID and many of their projects being put on hold.
Fortunately, these two artists have public art installations located around the Long Beach and Los Angeles area that are free.
The Long Beach Museum of Art has also held and will continue to hold Instagram live chats with artists to get their artwork shown to the public as well.
The pandemic has affected many artists and forced them to adapt. Christine and Elyse advise young artists to keep creating and keep up the hard work during the pandemic.
You can check out Pignolet and Nguyen’s art by visiting their instagram pages and websites.
https://www.christinenguyen.art/
https://www.instagram.com/seamoonshe/