Artists produce thought-provoking works amid pandemic

With the global COVID-19 pandemic altering people's lives and work, artists have been learning to adapt to the new world while reflecting the unprecedented crisis in their work.

Plagues have been a common theme throughout history for artists - unable to remain indifferent in the wake of such pain and suffering caused by tragic disease outbreaks that killed millions and turned lives upside down over the centuries.

Depicting these plagues in their artworks, they have left behind "documents" of their era for future generations.

In an exclusive interview, the state-run Anadolu Agency asked two artists how the COVID-19 outbreak affected their lives.

"At the beginning [of the pandemic], I had to close my workshop, and I turned my home's living room into a workshop, as well as an online school for my daughter," said artist Ece Günaçar, who paints while also working in textiles and other disciplines.

Speaking on how the virus has affected artists in terms of creativity and innovation, she said: "I started printing my works on masks. I said if we cannot open an exhibition, then we will exhibit our works on people's faces."

Noting that she produced a lot of work during this period, Günaçar said: "I discovered my limits. I got stronger. The days are full, and the time is limited. As it turns out, the clock is ticking in traffic and conversations with friends. Now it's time to produce more."

Günaçar believes that the period will positively affect artists who have a stable mindset, are at peace with themselves, productive, open to improvement, and believe that in the middle of every difficulty lies an opportunity.

Senarist Resul Ertaş said the pandemic did not affect his life too much.

"Before COVID started, I was...