Isolation Arts Cafe opens for art, poetry, music, photography an

Like many others, St Albans Arts Team were dismayed at having to cancel upcoming events and projects due to the Coronavirus epidemic; We realise how important the arts are for collective wellbeing within the community – for creatives and audiences alike – these spaces where we connect, communicate, debate and display. Some of us have family or on-line networks around us to whom we can turn, but others not so much. Whilst the team has now been furloughed, we are using our free time to run Isolation Arts Cafe.

Whilst we need to support the NHS and those in high risk categories by isolating, that isolation itself can be challenging to both physical and mental wellbeing. With that in mind we determined to set up an online venue/gallery where folks could meet, share, create and perform – Isolation Arts Cafe. In these times of lock-down, Isolation Arts Cafe is a space where people can share their creativity and collaborate creatively with others. Whether from St Albans District, elsewhere in the UK or from another corner of the globe – all are welcome to drop by and share photos, poems, paintings, videos and more.

The response has been amazing with with hundreds of people sharing artworks, poetry, music and photography along with tips for others to hone their skills during lockdown. We are having weekly virtual gigs and currently setting up a special daytime gig for beaming in to a local care home. We have also had artists sharing from around the globe; Canada, Germany, USA...

The Cafe is also a space to share opportunities; workshops, tutorials and challenges and our online performances from local and inspirational singer-songwriters. Also the cafe is a place for artists to share we will try and signpost folks to other interesting virtual arts happenings and opportunities.

Come and join us at https://www.facebook.com/groups/831355164015722/

For more information visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/831355164015722/