Creating Art During a Pandemic

Throughout history, pandemics have inspired creative minds to create works of art. The work of Italian artists between the 15th and 18th century captured the pain, loss, and spiritualism through dozens of masterpieces chronicling the repeated outbreaks of the bubonic plague throughout Europe.

It's no different for Overlake's visual arts students who have had to make their home an art studio. It has also forced teachers to take an uncharted approach with their young artists. "It's hard to have the same connection with students. As an art teacher, I can't look over their shoulder as they are working and offer feedback in the studio," explains Mollie Montgomery whose woodshed, ceramics, and sculpture classes would take up a big share of studio space in the Art Barn. "We have reinvented the art wheel, so to speak, when it comes to supplies and projects. We can't send home the entire Art Barn studios to each student."

Although the art faculty have been forced to reimagine their curriculum, the COVID-19 pandemic has energized students to create works of art in spite of it. Their inspiration led to art that captures hope, sadness, joy, among other emotions. "I am proud of what the Arts department has tackled and what our students have accomplished, as well as the whole school. It is a team effort for sure," adds Montgomery. 

During this time of year, it's not uncommon for Overlake's Visual Arts faculty to display art in the lobby of the Fulton Performing Arts Center. While that is not happening right now due to our campus being closed, we wanted to share our students' masterpieces in this virtual art gallery.

Click here to view and experience the emotions evoked through these drawings, paintings, and photographs.