The impact of COVID-19 has been felt nationwide across all industries, from retail and hospitality to the arts – the latter which typically contributes ~$9.7 billion to SC’s economy annually. And in Greenville, the arts industry pumps around $225 million into the local economy.

With theatres, galleries, festivals, concerts + other arts events and venues shuttering during quarantine, revenue and income losses for Greenville’s arts orgs are estimated to reach hundreds of thousands of dollars, if not more. As the pandemic continues in SC, losses by arts groups statewide could exceed $10 million by the end of the year.

The good news is that while we won’t be able to attend in-person shows, festivals or museums anytime in the near future, we can still help support Greenville’s arts scene.

Here are 7 ways to support local creators + art organizations during COVID-19:

Donate: To supplement the loss of revenue from ticket sales, class fees + performances, you can donate to your favorite arts organizations so that they have the resources to provide outstanding programs and services to you once the pandemic subsides. If you would like to support the Metropolitan Arts Council, click here.
Purchase local art for your home: Spending so much time at home lately has made us want to totally redecorate. Buying a sculpture, painting or hand-crafted piece of furniture from a local artist will spruce up your space, help them continue creating and give you a one-of-a-kind touch that you can’t find in a big box store. 🏡
Support local artists on social media: If you don’t have any extra money to spend on a piece of art, support your favorite artist on social media. Sharing their post on Instagram Story or Tweeting about them is free marketing for an artist. It might catch the attention of someone who hasn’t seen their art or heard their music before. 🎶
Purchase merch: The perfect solution to not being able to see your favorite artist perform in-person at a concert is to have a jam session while wearing the band’s t-shirt or hoodie. Most artists have also expanded their merchandise lines to include stickers, hats + bags. 👕
Lookout for virtual shows + performances: Quarantine is pushing artists to be more creative than ever. Many are using social media to hold backyard concerts or promote virtual art shows. Find ways to tip or donate after the show – the artists will appreciate it. 🎬
Buy gift cards: Support museums, theaters + galleries right now by purchasing a gift card, and once they reopen, you’ll get an experience you’ve already paid for. 💳
Check out MAC’s latest virtual exhibit: Local artist Kelli Emig’s oil paintings are on display in a virtual exhibit on MAC’s website, as well as in-person at Centre Stage; open to the public Tues.-Fri., 2-6 p.m. (Don’t forget your mask.) Visit the virtual exhibit to see a video explanation of the work from Kelli. The exhibit is sponsored by Clinkscales Chevrolet. Ⓟ