The (positive and negative) impact of Covid-19
The DCMS Commons Select Committee is calling for written evidence on the impact of COVID-19 on any DCMS sectors by 19 June 2020. The Crafts Council will be submitting evidence.
The Culture, Health and Wellbeing Alliance has published the findings from a survey of culture, health and wellbeing organisations and practitioners about the impact of Covid-19 on their work. Nearly half feel somewhat or very optimistic about the future of their work.
a-n has surveyed 4,000 artists and curators and found that that the practice or career of 93% of respondents has been affected by the outbreak. Craft and applied arts and performance practice appear to be impacted more than curators, digital and project managers.
NEMO, the European museums network has mapped COVID-19’s impact on the museum sector and finds that although the sector is experiencing financial setbacks, it is agile and able to adapt to the new (digital) normal. NEMO’s report includes recommendations for immediate, medium-term and long-term strategy on economic support, investment in digital cultural heritage and making museums fit for crises.
It’s good to craft!
The International Arts + Mind Lab: The Center for Applied Neuroaesthetics explores how the acts of baking, knitting, and gardening share characteristics that make them well-suited for self-care. These activities all help to improve mood and lower stress.
“The effort involved in ‘making something’, the multi-sensory engagement, repetitive actions and anticipation of satisfaction from the rewarding final product are related to release of neurotransmitters, like serotonin and dopamine, that promote joy and well-being, while also reducing stress hormones like cortisol,” says Dr. Girija Kaimal.
And - frequent arts participation and cultural attendance is associated with lower levels of mental distress and higher levels of life satisfaction.