The Irwin House Gallery, not unlike most of the world, remains closed due to the Coronavirus pandemic. Before the crisis, we were preparing to reset and restore for Spring events – including a community public art project. No one could have seen what was to come.
While we were certainly disappointed about the disruptions in our plans, we were happy to comply with the state’s shut-down orders and we continue to support Governor Whitmer in her efforts to extend the stay and keep us all safe. During this time, we are continuing to do all we can to serve our neighborhood and to support communities in need.
We have remotely continued our work with the West Grand Boulevard Collective (WGBC) to advocate for West End Detroit residents. We had an opportunity to volunteer for with Chef Maxcel Hardy and Too Many Cooks in the Kitchen for Good, preparing and serving meals for shelters and first responders. As neighbors of Henry For Hospital, we are also looking at ways we can support health care workers serving in our community. And, we have adjusted the scope of future programming to include programs which support post-pandemic healing through the arts.
We look forward to keeping in touch and reconnecting with the artists and arts communities of Detroit. In the meantime, please stay safe, stay informed and, most importantly, take care of your physical and mental health. Here are a few resources. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you or anyone you know needs help during this critical time.
Detroit area COVID-19 resources:
- RELIEF FUNDS FOR ARTISTS
- Recommendation for 0 interest small biz loans: KIVA.ORG
- CITY OF DETROIT COVID-19 RESOURCES
- U of M MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES FOR COVID
- MICHIGAN CORONAVIRUS MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES
Lastly, we are all aware that some individuals displaying Coronavirus symptoms have been unable to get tested or receive medical care, including health care workers. We are not, in any way, disseminating medical advice, but if you find yourself having to administer self-care at home, please take what you find useful from the following video created by Dr. Nida Mohsin:
Sending love and strength to all!
Featured art by Eric’s I’ve Been Framed