We are in an odd place for culture. A lot of people are ignoring lockdowns and mask regulations, but realistically, we cannot all go back to going everywhere all at once. The temperature may be warmer for a lot of us, but that does not make it any safer. So, while we are all doing our part and staying distant (and home), it’s time to dig into some #CultureFromHome options. There are a lot of cultural activities that we can do from home, and it is the perfect time to embrace it!
Culture can take many forms. Performance art, like dance, theatre, and music, and traditional art, like paintings, sculture, and drawing (among many others). Culture can also be the arts, traditions, social institutions, and food of a specific group of people. And then has been no better time to explore all forms of culture like now, when we all have time on our hands!
Online Dance and Theatre Performances
I’ve shared many different dance companies and theatres that are streaming their performances online in my Online Cultural Resources post! We are spoiled for choice- from the Royal Ballet’s Anastasia to The Merry Wives of Windsor from the Globe Theatre to the Met Opera’s in New York. A lot of companies/theatres do seem to be tapering off on streaming performances for free, but there are still some out there. (It may have to do with summer- a lot of people will be outside, not watching their computers inside.) There are also paid streaming services and professional shots of productions that you can watch, as well. (I admit, I will be watching Hamilton on Disney+ on July 3rd!) We may have to keep our distance from each other, but that does not mean that the live performing arts have to cease completely!
Note: Companies and theatres- please consider leaving things online, even for a fee, for those of us who aren’t physically able to attend even in normal times!
Armchair Travel
Most of us will be at home and sans travel for quite some time. However, that does not mean that we can’t explore and enjoy other cultures! I know a few different family and friends who will immerse themselves in a different culture for a month or two, andit is the perfect time to do it. Read books written by authors of that culture, make recipes and cocktails (or mocktails), watch movies and television, find travel blogs that cover it. No, it won’t be the same as actually physically going there, but it is something! (And it might make your trip when you do eventually get there even more enjoyable.)
A good place to start could be exploring different cultures of people who live in your neighbourhood, or in your workplace, or at your school. We all need to do a better job of understanding everyone, not just a select few! Reach out to people to ask for their favourite recipes or music or movies. Given how isolated we are, it gives you a reason to reach out and make another connection! Discover a new culture and take the time to enjoy it and immerse yourself, and cultivate some of your personal relationships while you are at it.
Creating Art
This seems very obvious, but there is something wonderful about creating your own artwork! It doesn’t have to be serious or perfect, but let yourself get creative. I would recommend starting with watercolour paints. You can usually find inexpensive sets at the dollar store or crafting stores, you don’t have to spend a lot. (Children’s crafting supplies work just as well for adults, right?) I’ve done some abstract watercolours and some florals. I’ve even attempted doing watercolour versions of my favourite pictures, like Kensington Palace and some Dior pieces. Will I be winning any prizes? No, but I don’t have to- it is just enjoyable.
For you, it might be sketching. Or it might be colouring. Or maybe cross-stitch or sewing or knitting or carving, or whatever appeals to you. Creativity and art can take an infinite number of forms, and give yourself the opportunity to try as many as you want. What is fun for me, might not be fun for you, or you might enjoy several different creative outlets! (My only recommendation is not to dive into any one hobby too hard- it can be expensive, and you might end up with a lot of stuff that you might never use again…)
What are you doing to enjoy #CultureFromHome this summer?
Cheers,
The Historian
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