“what is art?” #18 – support

It is no question we are living through a historical time right now. 

Universally, the virus has caused a long list of changes and it is easy for all of us to focus on the negative that is occurring/has occurred. However, it is also important to seek out the positive and encourage others to do the same. 

This past week was supposed to be the in-person 58th Ann Arbor Film Festival (AAFF) at The Michigan Theater showcasing over a hundred films from filmmakers all around the world. Despite the virus causing the week-long social festival to be called off, the festival team decided to search for an online method to display their scheduled film programs.

The staff successfully switched their gears to this odd new online festival with the help of Vimeo’s streaming services. Since Tuesday, the team at the AAFF has been able to do a week-long live stream of the entire on-screen program schedule and have received many praises because of it. 

Along with their streaming service, the Ann Arbor Film Festival has been using their Instagram to connect viewers with encouraging them to post pictures tagging #AAFFLIVE. From the AAFF reposting images of audience members from wherever they call quarantine home, they have accomplished creating the admirable and wonderful community they are widely known to create every year at the theater. 

COVID-19 has surely made a dent in everyone’s social activities but with the help of organizations like the Ann Arbor Film Festival we are able to get through it a little easier. 

As we support coronavirus relief efforts, we must continue our loyalty to the art community. The arts are a vital part of our society therefore we all need to remember to protect its existence. 

The Ann Arbor Festival ends tomorrow with a couple of feature films and the award screenings. If you have spare time I encourage you all to check out their schedule and live stream itself.

I hope you all are safe and healthy and continue to stay this way! Sending my wishes 🙂