HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Even though we can't see them in person, local artists are still there for us to keep us engaged and entertained.
Many local musicians are performing online and providing virtual tip jars, visual artists have their work online for you to see, and performers have moved their dance and theater performances into virtual space.
ArtsHuntsville.org has resources for artists and the public looking for assistance or entertainment during the COVID-19 crisis. They're also spotlighting local artists on their Facebook page.
During a news conference on Saturday, Arts Huntsville Executive Director Allison Dillon-Jauken encouraged the public to support local artists through virtual tip jars, just as they would in a restaurant, club, or bar. She also urged patrons with tickets to events like the ballet or symphony to consider those tickets a donation to the organization as a way to continue their support.
"We encourage you, if you have a birthday coming up, an anniversary or if you're simply need some retail therapy to get through this, visit these artists online. They have work available or they can create a new commission just for you right now," says Arts Huntsville Executive Director, Allison Dillon-Jauken.
#Panoply2020 has moved online for a virtual festival featuring different artists and performers daily.
Tangled Strings Studios is hosting Couch Tour 2020, where you can see some of the Tennessee Valley's best musicians from the comfort of your stay-at-home refuge. Click here for the schedule. You can also donate to musicians online.
HuntsvilleMusic.com has a list of online music shows plus a virtual tip jar for local musicians. Check out their menu of upcoming shows.
Purple19 is another place to find local music and performances online, as well as resources for artists.
Want more? Artists are posting their links and performances on Huntsville Musicians Go Livestreaming | Coronavirus Relief.
Meet a wide range of visual artists online at LoweMill.art. Lowe Mill is a Huntsville treasure and the largest privately owned arts facility in the country. It's physically closed to the public, but it's virtual space is wide open.
Some artists are also creating activities to keep you occupied while you're home. Timbrook Toys is one, and they've made a series of #craftingthecurve activities, suitable for all ages and experience levels.
Check back for more links as more local artists take their work online.
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