JAMES STRECKER: How creative are you feeling with COVID-19 on your mind?
DENIELLE BASSELS: In the beginning, over 5 weeks ago, it took a while for me to get creative. I was too busy trying to catch all the balls that were suddenly all up in the air. It took a good two weeks for the dust to settle, but when it did, I felt more creative than I have been in long time.
JS: In what specific ways has COVID-19 changed your personal life?
DB: I had to make a decision to stay in Toronto and eek my way through everything without income or go to the country to the safety of my family and the fresh country air. The catch was that my family is very intense all day every day, so that’s really been a challenge. I chose wisely though. I’ve been safe, fed, and have been connecting with my adorable little nephews. There is so much to be grateful for. Glad it won’t be forever though! I’m also glad I’ve discovered Zoom meetings and virtual get togethers to touch base with friends and loved ones.
JS: What are your primary worries, at this time, about the present situation in the arts because of COVID-19?
DB: I guess my primary worry is that we will lose the momentum and the relevance that we have worked so hard over the years to build up. A lot of things have gone on hold. My record for one. We were smack dab in the middle of recording it when COVID struck.
JS: What are your primary worries about the future situation in the arts because of COVID-19?
DB: It seems it will take some time before we can start to perform regularly again. Will we have as many options? Toronto has had a bad time in recent years of losing many coveted music venues. Will the venues that we depend on now still be open for business when the world gets back to its “new normal?” Will we all have to become more savvy at internet apps? Is that the future for artists?
JS: What are you yourself doing to get through this time of crisis?
DB: Expanding my horizons. I’m writing more than ever and have joined groups of songwriters to stretch artistically. I’m upgrading my instrumental skills and learning as much as I can about the technological side to music such as production, internet apps for presenting works of art and film editing. Learning new skills makes me feel more positive about the future.
JS: What are other creative people you know doing to get through this time of crisis?
DB: Many of my colleagues are using this crisis as a chance to self-reflect, to rediscover what is important to them as people and as artists. Many of us are working together in one capacity or another. I find myself creating more collaborative relationships than I’ve ever had in the past.
JS: What are the saddest stories you’ve heard about creative people during this time of COVID-19?
DB: I feel like we take care of each other here. I haven’t heard any sad stories about artists in my community. Knock on wood. Maybe it’s because I’m not as connected in isolation, I hope that’s not the case. I try to stay in the know and make sure all my contacts are safe and well.
JS: What are the most encouraging or inspiring stories you’ve heard about creative people during this time of COVID-19?
DB: I’m loving the front row experience to my favourite artists offering free online concerts at home. It’s so encouraging and inspiring to see the artists that I most look up to forgoing the bells and whistles and just playing from the heart. I’m seeing people come together for each other. One artist in our community has called his entire roster of musicians and friends just to check up on them personally and make sure they are well and not in need. That’s just beautiful.
JS: How can we support people in the arts during this difficult time?
DB: Artists in times of crisis will do what they know, they will perform or create art to lighten hearts and inspire hope and strength. Look out for artists in your community that need help. Buy their work if it’s online. Attend an online concert, donate, subscribe, like, follow, share their work if you like it. Ask questions.
JS: Finally, what specifically can we do to support your life and work in the arts?
DB: Listen to my work online! If you like it please spread the word. Send me a message, keep in touch. 🙂 Purchase music if you can. Bandcamp offers the most revenue from sales to artists, they also allow the opportunity for fans to make donations. Spotify isn’t so good for artists, but sharing the music is helpful.