Tulsa museum showcasing quarantine art project amid pandemic

TULSA, Okla. (AP) — The term “artist in residence” has taken on new meaning as the populace continues to confront the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It’s probably safe to say that every artist these days is an artist in residence since they are having to stay at home just like everyone else,” Lauren Rogers, communications specialist at Gilcrease Museum, told the Tulsa World.

It was during a discussion about how Gilcrease, which is closed to the public in accordance with the city’s policies in halting the spread of the disease, might still find ways to connect with audiences during this time.

“One of our staff members, Calvin Frank, came up with the idea of reaching out to artists we have worked with before and have them submit work that was about how they felt about the current situation and share that with the public,” Rogers said. “I sort of hijacked the idea and said that, instead of limiting it to certain groups, let’s open it up to everyone.”

The first call for artists to contribute to the “#ArtistsinQuarantine” project went out March 20, and so far, more than 50 artists have responded. Gilcrease staff members selected certain images that it features regularly on its various social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Gilcrease Museum Executive Director Susan Neal said, “Our plan to engage the community during this crisis was to focus on what we call ‘The Three Cs’ — feeling calm, connected and creative. And I thought this idea ticked all the boxes.

“Enjoying a work of art can’t help but give one a personal sense of calm, and offering this outlet for area artists is a way of helping them stay connected and engaged with the museum,” she said.

Other online programs include “Maker’s...