ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

New York's #CreativityWillSaveUs Project: Artists Respond to Pandemic

digital · 2026-04-27

Launched in March 2020 by Creative Pois-On in New York, the #CreativityWillSaveUs initiative showcases podcasts and videos where artists discuss the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The project originated after Broadway's closure, leading Creative Pois-On to seek artists' insights. The inaugural episode features Kayla Davion, Herman Cornejo, Grimanesa Amoros, Elena Berriolo, and Alessandra Salerno. Due to its popularity, the series grew to ten episodes, including contributions from international figures like sculptor Lorenzo Quinn and singer-songwriter Leda Battisti. Tommaso Cartia and Daniela Pavan, the project's creators, stress the significance of art for societal growth and economic health. A survey in Singapore revealed that 71% do not consider artists' work "essential," underscoring a lack of understanding of their economic role. The next phase will include entrepreneurs.

Key facts

  • #CreativityWillSaveUs project launched by Creative Pois-On in New York
  • Series includes videos and podcasts with artists responding to COVID-19 crisis
  • First episode features Kayla Davion, Herman Cornejo, Grimanesa Amoros, Elena Berriolo, Alessandra Salerno
  • Project expanded to include international creatives across disciplines
  • Ten episodes available on YouTube with artists like Lorenzo Quinn, Annalaura di Luggo, Leda Battisti
  • Project creators: Tommaso Cartia (editor-in-chief) and Daniela Pavan (artistic director)
  • Survey from Singapore: 71% do not consider artists' work essential
  • Second phase will involve entrepreneurs and business professionals

Entities

Artists

  • Kayla Davion
  • Herman Cornejo
  • Grimanesa Amoros
  • Elena Berriolo
  • Alessandra Salerno
  • Lorenzo Quinn
  • Annalaura di Luggo
  • Leda Battisti
  • Tommaso Cartia
  • Daniela Pavan
  • Maurita Cardone

Institutions

  • Creative Pois-On
  • American Ballet Theater
  • Artribune

Locations

  • New York
  • United States
  • Singapore

Sources