The arts have undoubtedly been hit hard by the Covid19 pandemic, with galleries, exhibitions and performances cancelled or postponed, impacting thousands of livelihoods throughout the country. As the restrictions rumble on with no clear end point in sight just yet, supporting your local creative community has never been so critical.  

Happily, there are things that people can do to support artists and creatives in Glossop and the surrounding area.  

Here are five simple ideas to get you started...

‍Join in with digital events  

The world was slowly moving to a digital-first landscape on many fronts, but the arts always seemed so tangible and visceral. Luckily, many exhibitions, arts festivals, music collectives, concerts and galleries have found a way to go virtual since the pandemic hit the UK, so seek out digital gallery tours and online art galleries to check out.  

Following local creative social pages and artists themselves will present lots of opportunities to seek out these virtual events, so add them to your diary and join in where you can.  

The Dark Peak Music Foundation

‍Learn new skills with workshops and masterclasses   

Going digital has allowed many artists and creatives to open up their work and their skills to a wider, national or even global audience. Take the opportunity to learn from local talented people by taking part in workshops, masterclasses and discussions. If you're lucky enough to have some more downtime as a result of the lockdown, learning a new skill such as painting, life drawing or even singing can be a real lifeline - and you'll help the artist to stay connected. Artist and lecturer Michael Howard regularly runs free zoom talks on art and art history.

Michael Howard 

‍Share share share!  

Following, engaging and sharing posts on social media can provide a real boost for creatives. It helps them to connect with new audiences, stay connected and ensure their work stays relevant and visual.  

Make sure you follow your favourite local artists on social media channels, join groups and make yourself part of the conversation. Read their blogs, watch their clips, share their pictures and comment when you like something. It may not seem like much but it can make a big difference.  

We are lucky enough to have several resident artists in Glossop, painters such as Ghislaine Howard, Barbara Helm and Jean Hobson, and sculptors including the amazing Brian Fell, so check out their work on social media for your daily art fix!

Ghislaine Howard

‍Buy local products online  

Many artists and creatives sell their work, be it prints, pottery, crafts or other creations. Make sure you have a "local first" policy when it comes to buying gifts or home purchases.  

For Glossop, check out businesses like the Wishing Tree Gallery, Lymefield Garden Centre and Dandelion, which sell all sorts of creations by local people. Many of them have their own e-commerce websites too, so spend a bit of time and see what's on offer on your doorstep.  

‍Commission a piece  

If you have the funds and are looking to invest in a bespoke artwork, portrait, piece of furniture or custom-made piece of pottery, look to your local creative community first. Glossop and its surrounding towns and villages are bursting with creative talent, and a custom commission will help the artist navigate the pandemic both creatively and financially.   Make Glossop Creates your first stop to see what's on offer in our fabulous local town.  

"Going digital has allowed many artists and creatives to open up their work and their skills to a wider, national or even global audience."