Social Distancing Inspires Artists

By Ashanti McClendon

    Though social distancing has put a hold on many events, it is no barrier for the creativity of our generation. Many artists are finding ways to contribute to the world from home. Using social media platforms such as Instagram to leave their mark, talented artists all over the world embrace community through their arts.

    Many writers and vocal artists are seeking exposure, and with the help of famous artists such as Jessie Reyez, a young singer and songwriter, they are able to reach other communities, as well as other creators. Reyez uses Instagram Live to perform her latest 2020 album, ‘Before Love Came to Kill Us,’ due to the cancellations of travel. She not only performs herself, but also invites others to join her live, giving them the opportunity to share their singing experience. Typically inviting about fifteen random artists to perform on her account per day, they are each given the chance to reach over a million of her fans, right through the comfort of their own homes.

Mia To plays her favorite tunes on her guitar. Photo Credit: Mia To

    Other local artists, such as Junior Mia To, are also using Instagram to display talents. Playing and singing along to songs such as ‘Pompeii’ by Bastille on her guitar or  ‘Riptide’ by Vance Joy on her ukelele, To dedicates about two hours to day simply embracing herself. She said, “I just recently started sharing my voice and instrument skills online. It’s always been a personal hobby.” The changes in society have inspired her to share her arts with others. If it had not been for the changes and mandated social distancing, she may not have ever shared her talents with her friends. She stated, “Once I get even more confident, I might join one of Jessie’s live shows, who knows?” To’s hobbies have recently become a strong passion due to the abundance of time she now has to put into creating, and she plans to take it even farther some day.

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    Not only are singers inspiring people, but dancers are making their mark as well. Professional Dancer Jojo Gomez motivates her fans to dance daily with her TikTok challenges and Instagram Live classes. If she is not teaching a combo on live, she is giving a challenge to her fans to spread to others. She is always saying that “we have to keep our bodies moving.” Many dancers look up to her for choreography tips, and basic technique skills, but she is not the only one. Senior Isaiah Gomez, a big fan of hers, was inspired by JoJo Gomez and his former coach and dance director, Alyssa Gomez, to perform on an Instagram Live as well. On April 17, Isaiah Gomez taught dance students a small hip hop combo, which included technique and vivid creativity. He expressed, “It was such a big opportunity teaching online, and a great experience to share what I and I know others love.” Many students were excited to see a dance member teach, joining his class with joy.

    Though times are different and physical connection is limited, artists are continually giving their time to keep art alive and establish community.  With things always evolving, art is determined to not miss a single beat. Whether they are local or across borders, talented artists are continuously spreading positivity even in these harder times.