Going Virtual

The Leland Cultural Art Center hosts a Spring Art Market every year, where local artisans and craftspeople can showcase their work and the public is able to browse and purchase accessories, fine art, home goods, and more.

This year, however, the event is going virtual to allow artists and the public to interact from a safe distance while helping to halt the spread of COVID-19.

On May 2 starting at 9 a.m. LCAC will share artists and their websites, Instagram and Facebook pages all day.

Cultural Arts Manager JULIANNE SCOTT and Arts Administrative Specialist KIRSTI ARMSTRONG at the LCAC share details on the virtual market, including how to “attend” and the importance of art and artist support during difficult times.

WILMA: Why did the Leland Cultural Arts Center decide to host the virtual market?
Scott: We decided to get creative to provide artists a platform to sell their works instead of simply canceling this event. During this strange, unpredictable time most people are all spending more time online. In order to help the artists continue to sell their work, we decided to shift our would-be canceled market into a virtual market.

WILMA: How does the virtual market work? How can artists participate?
Armstrong: People interested in “attending” our virtual market can follow along on our Facebook and Instagram feed throughout the day on May 2. We will feature a variety of artists as the day goes along and include links to the artists’ pages so that they may see what the artists have available. There will be everything from handmade cards, jewelry, pottery, and more. For our typical Art Markets at the LCAC, applications are available about 2 months ahead of the event and we invite as many artists as possible to apply. We jury applications to make sure we provide variety and quality to the community. This Virtual Market is a little different and we currently are no longer accepting applications. If you are an artist interested in participating, please check online to find out information about our next Art Market.

WILMA: What is the goal of the market?
Armstrong: Our goal with this year’s Virtual Spring Art Market is to spotlight local artists and hopefully support them through connecting the artists with potential shoppers through our social media outlets.

WILMA: How has the art center been connecting with the community and artists during COVID-19?
Armstrong: Throughout this difficult time, especially with our doors being closed, we have tried to connect with our community through social media as well as sharing all different kinds of virtual activities to help keep everyone busy and their spirits up! Having the support and understanding from our community during this time has made the decision to take our Spring Art Market Virtual this year a no brainer! We are working every day to serve these artists and our community.

WILMA: How can art help people cope during this time?
Scott: Artistic expression can help people cope with things they are experiencing, whether on a personal or global scale. Finding a creative outlet to express your feelings or ideas can help to relieve stress and to connect with other people. Sometimes, what you create can speak to the soul of another human and that can lift your spirits to know you’ve reached someone with your art. Dance, music, and poetry can cause a viewer or listener to get chills because the experience is so emotionally powerful. Sharing your artistic passion with others can help your passion to grow and connect you to with other people in a unique way.

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