“Art is the highest form of hope.”
—Gerhard Richter
Before, going on our bike ride last week, my friend Bill wanted to show me something he thought I would find interesting. In Case of Emergency: Stay Safe, Stay Inspired, & Stay 6 Feet Apart read the sign posted on a ranch-style wooden log fence of a home that got my attention. It could easily pass for one posted by the City, and it certainly was a sign of the times both literally and figuratively. I would later find out that behind the fence the plethora of more than 25 digital print recreations on canvas we were looking at on the front lawn were some of the homeowner's favorite internationally celebrated artists. They include the Balloon Girl by Banksy 2002; Interior with Girl Drawing by Pablo Picasso, 1935; Flowers, by Andy Warhol, 1970; Pink Lincoln by Mark Ryden, 2013. The installation is intended as a walk-by, (or drive-by) experience for everyone.
As Plato once said, necessity is the mother of invention,” and it was clear to me that the owner was definitely trying to make a statement, to remind people about taking “social" or more accurately "physical” distancing measures during the pandemic. But, there was more behind this unusual art exhibit, in my opinion. An artist or any lover of art would know that with heavy workloads, financial worries, the current divisive political climate on the world stage, and being stalked by the coronavirus, it is an invitation to stop and take a breather. Research has shown that viewing art at an art gallery or museum can reduce stress, anxiety, depression, and can elevate one’s mood. The unknown owner of this outdoor exhibition is also trying to show us that it’s’ not a bad idea to surround ourselves with art that we love.
It may be quite a long time until museums and galleries we once took for granted will feel safe enough to open to the public again. There is no denying that these entities play a crucial role in creating a more empathic world by preserving the past, reminding us of our place in the present and give hope for the future.
In the meantime, we have the free online interactive offerings of major museums, digital reproductions, or for those who live in Santa Clara County, visit the Emergency Art Museum at 801 Miller Street on the corner of Abbot just across from Jack Fisher Park, in Campbell, CA. The owner is a children’s author. For more information about his work visit: umbrellybooks.com & emergencyartmuseum.com
Postscript: The spread of the novel coronavirus is concerning, to be sure. But even during this threatening time, governments and citizens around the world are using innovative, quirky and humorous ways to educate the public on how to stay safe and spread a little joy and laughter while trying to keep people from spreading the virus. The last two photos of Leonardo DaVinci's Mona Lisa are not part of the homeowner’s installation. The one of her wearing a face mask and holding a cell phone is by Italian artist Salvatore Benintende in Barcelona, Spain (Feb 18, 2020). The one of her with her legs propped up is a meme by Craftinga@CraftingCom, depicting her behind the doors of the Louvre Museum after being closed for days! The result? Mona can finally relax until the museums open again and visitors start declaring, look it’s her!
