What do you predict the future of arts, culture and media will be after the pandemic? How will things be different? E.g. what will gigs be like?

There will be a new rise of people making the best of what they have, social distancing measures will force organisers to rethink the structure to make the “new normal” enjoyable as well as safe.

Smaller venues and queer venues will shut down, people will be way more cautious around crowds for a while.

I think the whole arts sector will have to go through massive change, gig venues won’t be able to fill to capacity and even if they wanted people would be hesitant to attend large gatherings. Costs will have to be assessed as less money is coming in through ticket sales etc. 

I have faith that the arts can use its creative minds to make smart changes but there will be a very  fine line around the intimacy that the arts supplies.

I think this will open up new opportunities for theatres and venues alike. They can now stream the shows online and bring in revenue that way, as well as having people in the venue enjoying the show. 

I have faith that the arts can use its creative minds to make smart changes but there will be a very  fine line around the intimacy that the arts supplies. 

I’m not sure. Music and creativity shouldn’t be censored in any way. I’m not sure how it will work which makes me sad.

I have no idea, which is the worrying thing. I do hope they can go back to normal once the virus is over. 

As much as I'd like to think the media we've put in place over this time will continue to exist, and that public places will practice more mindful safeguarding, I honestly think things will go back to normal in a year or so.

I imagine they will eventually get back to the same place they were before the pandemic but it will take a while. In the meantime, social distanced and less fun.

What positives have you found, if any, from engaging with activities and events virtually rather than in person?

Social anxiety is at an all time low. I can enjoy these things from the comfort from my own home and don’t feel obligated to Socially perform for others. 

Save money, getting to see artists who might not always play in your area.

Cost of travelling to activities or cost of drink/food whilst out has been saved.

-the opportunity to join in an activity with huge numbers - Brixton life drawing class had over 200 people zooming in from all over the world as opposed to a small.

Class. The chance to see friends from other areas in London more regularly was made possible too.

The main positive for me doing activities at home is that I no longer have to commute, which in turn affords me an extra 2 hours of my day.

Nice to interact with others during the process.

My laziness stops me from going out to do stuff all the time, so I'm actually probably doing more activities now in a weird changed world that's suddenly set up for total home entertainment/engagement.

Unlimited amount of people in the ‘room’ together at once.

My name is Abbey and I am currently 25 years old, living in South London. I work as an operations manager in audio production and have previously worked in factual documentary for television. Alongside this I also manage a trans-inclusive female choir and produce my own panels/events around feminism as well as writing for online publications.