In the middle of the doom and gloom of the imminent spread of coronavirus, one thing that has lifted the mood is the move to digital and virtual space by film and art festivals.
Film and art festivals are the first to adapt to virtual in light of the coronavirus. Independent film festivals and huge markets like Cannes, international art festivals and small independents, including Chinese galleries, have moved online, sparking a global shift in participation and ticket sales, meaning consumers never miss out.
With festivals, events, and theatre schedules canceled or postponed because of the coronavirus, independent Hollywood and UK agencies and companies have been planning a virtual market if Cannes is canceled in May, which is likely.
There is no reason economically why more festivals and art events don’t adopt a digital strategy. It’s a win-win scenario that could see more ticket sales which then could be adopted post-coronavirus. Can’t make it to Cannes? Why not purchase a virtual ticket and enjoy the festival from your own home.
Elsewhere, film and art festivals, markets, and exhibitions have wasted no time in changing to virtual. After SXSW canceled, jurors are selecting competition awards online. CPH:DOX in Copenhagen has set up its digital festival two days ago after it was canceled on March 11. Series Mania in France launched its Digital Forum after it was also canceled on March 11.
Online magazine, Berlin Art Link lists a “Virtual Viewing” of art to see online in the German capital and elsewhere, including Art Dubai who will host a lifestream and Online Performance Program.
The London Games Festival has shifted the core of the festival program to online video meetings and interviews.
Unless there’s a cap on virtual audience participation, who wouldn’t be excited to attend Cannes or Art Basel Hong Kong, virtually?
Ginger Liu has worked remotely online since 2009. Digital Nomad.
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