Can you remember a time when we’ve needed the arts more? As we continue to grapple with the pandemic and fight harder for racial equity, the arts are there to support us. We listen to music, we read, we make chalk drawings with our kids. We play video games, we dance in our living rooms, and watch movies and TV. We practice the guitar, take Instagram photos, and we create posters to carry in protest.

The arts are working overtime in every community, household, and family, doing what they do best: connecting us, giving us needed moments of joy, and most of all creating hope. #ArtsCreateHope 

SPREAD THE HOPE

We’ve collaborated with artist Shannon Downey on a hopeful craft project for these challenging times. Download the free pattern for this custom Arts Create Hope embroidery project and make it for yourself or someone you love—then share your finished project with us on social media! Don’t forget to tag us (@americans4arts) and Shannon (@badasscrossstitch) and include #ArtsCreateHope in your posts.

Tell us how the arts create hope for you! Share your story on social media of the arts creating hope in your life. Need a little inspiration? Use our sample language and download the images below to get your social post started. 

A photo of a chalk rainbow drawn on asphalt and the hashtag #ArtsCreateHope

The arts give me hope during these troubling times. I listen to music. I dance. I sing. I draw. I write stories. Spread the word! Find ways you can support the arts at ArtsCreateHope.com. #ArtsCreateHope @americans4arts

Download graphic (.PNG) (.PDF)

Three photos of people creating art and the hashtag #ArtsCreateHope

Times are hard—but the arts are helping get me through. The best creative thing I’ve seen/done during the pandemic is [tell your story here]. What about you? #ArtsCreateHope @americans4arts

Download graphic (.PNG) (.PDF)

GET INVOLVED NOW

Support the arts in your community. Consider organizations centering diverse people, cultures, and art disciplines as you buy gift cards for future performances or make donations. Google your state, county, or city arts council for help.

Stay informed about the great need of arts organizations during the COVID pandemic.A colorful illustration of a rainbow and stars and the words Arts Create Hope.

Tell Congress that the arts need support. Take two minutes to write to your elected officials through the Arts Action Fund Action Center.

Shop the Arts Create Hope Redbubble store and wear your hope on your sleeve (or hat, or coffee mug).

Make a donation to Americans for the Arts to sustain the arts in communities across our nation and help us bring tools, training, research, and advocacy to a massive network of artists, administrators, leaders, and educators who need them.

Celebrate National Arts & Humanities Month in October. Join our Instagram challenge, advocate for increased federal arts funding, write an op-ed or letter to the editor for your local paper, or just get out and take part in the arts and culture happening in your community!