May The Arts Bring You Hope And Healing In 2021

Many of us are glad to bid farewell to 2020 - a year that took away so much that was precious to us. We lost friends, freedoms, certainties, and the warmth of contact. Grappling with these many griefs, we have somewhat hurtled down the last few days of December, hoping that the beginning of yet another random cycle of time will bring with it hope and peace. Many are counting on the vaccine, some on the disease to reduce its ferocity, and others on the generosity of the universe to allow us the strength to continue our journeys. 

In all of this, at IFA, we have held on to each other and continued to do our best for the arts and culture communities that we are committed to serving. If we reflect on what we have learnt, three things stand out. Firstly, as human beings, we have a huge capacity for courage, empathy and compassion that we must employ on our ordinary days as much as we do when faced with trying times. Secondly, the pandemic has thrown away our blindfolds to the inequalities in the world that stare at us asking questions we must collectively imagine answers for. Lastly, artists once again have come out as healers of a broken world and hope makers of the future, offering joy and solace to all those feeling lost and alone during these trying times.

We share these learnings with you because you too have touched us with the art you create and the kindness of your spirit – with messages of encouragement, generous contributions, and undying faith in the work we do. We hope the New Year is one that brings us the healing touch we need and may we continue to work hard for an equal and just world.