To quote the sociologist Raymond Williams, “culture is ordinary.” At least, it is for us (we love it!) But in extraordinary times, culture does extraordinary things. Like shifting itself online during the lockdown. While online art galleries and concerts are nothing new, the choice, scale, and quality of what’s on offer currently is.
With some of the biggest names in art, design, music and cinema currently offering up content for free, there’s even something for the hungriest of culture-vultures. While we’ve no idea if this is just a trend, or the dawning of a new digital renaissance, we’ll be enjoying it all from the comfort of our living room while it lasts. And so should you. Whether you’re an art loving beard-stroker or a festival head-banger, here’s where to get your fix.
Where to start
Designboom.com has rather helpfully curated a guide to live-streamed and online arts and culture events to enjoy whilst social distancing.
Where to sing-along
You won’t be able to yell “Play Free Bird” at the band, but you can still rock out to some great performances from the likes of Colbie Caillat, Waxahatchee and Snail Mail at uncancelledmusicfestival.com.
Where to hmmm
Time to dust off the old VHS and watch those home movies again. View nine films from MoMA’s Private Lives Public Spaces exhibition at moma.org, dedicated to the art of home movies whether they’re filmed on a Super 8 or on an iphone.
Where to whoa
Museums are closed. But that’s not an excuse to close your mind too. Check out the Tate Museum’s “Walk of Art” podcast and open yourself up to conversations about art, artists, and the places that inspire them. Head to tate.org.uk
Where to wow
Hosted by dezeen.com and running now until June 30th , make sure you don’t miss the world’s first virtual design fair.
Where to shhh!
Check out National Theatre Live’s Youtube account for front seats to their best filmed performances.
Where to binge
Cut the cord already and now suddenly regretting it? HBO.com and AMC.com got you covered streaming free episodes of some of their most popular series.
Where to aria
It ain’t over till you hear the fat lady sing. The Metropolitan Opera will be streaming performances for free at metopera.org.
Where to premiere
Your Amazon account isn’t just for bulk ordering toilet paper. Amazon Prime is now featuring 39 movies straight from the SXSW Film Festival. No trip to Austin needed.