Creation in Isolation: Megan Hill

Art From the Inside

By Melissa Schack

In a time when art is labeled non-essential, people turn to art as an outlet to explore and escape the impact of the pandemic. Megan Hill is an illustrator and painter in Richmond, Virginia whose recent work took the theme “Valiant Women of the Vote” in honor of the 100 year anniversary of the ratification of the 19th amendment. Her work as an art teacher at Abrakadoodle and as an after school counselor at the Steward School was discontinued, but she doesn’t let COVID-19 keep her from creating. Since her unemployment, she turned her attention back to painting and reflection. She reopened her Etsy shop and plans to take commissions. She’s a testament to the resiliency and adaptability of artists.

How does your art help with your job as an after school counselor?
 
I actually got the job at the Steward School because I taught the Abrakadoodle classes for their Summer Experience program in 2019.  Art has also helped me get to know all of the students in the after school program; drawing helps occupy the students when they're anxious about when their parents are arriving or overwhelmed by the day they had at school.  Some students don't enjoy drawing, though, so I introduced some instructional books on origami to them, which eventually turned into airplane making contests. With all of the rainy weather we had before the school closed, art and games were the salvation for us when the students couldn't be outside.

What impact does art have on society in times of crisis?
 
Art has always been a way that society documents events and its reaction to them.  This is evident in our current society in a variety of mediums; videos and memes being the most popular way to add humor to the current crisis.  Crisis also impacts the way artists create, some turn to new mediums during times of change. Humans will continue to create as long as there are ways for them to express themselves.  

How has COVID-19 affected your career and your personal life?
 
COVID-19 has suspended all developments in my career; I was anticipating interviewing for full-time teaching positions this spring.  I was working part-time substituting, teaching art classes, babysitting, and as a counselor; all of which are suspended as well, so I've had to apply for unemployment.  Also, the gallery that I display work at has been closed indefinitely.  

As for my personal life, it's been a welcome time for reflection and manifestation. I've been reconnecting with friends and family members, spending more time cooking and painting, and slowly realizing I may be more of an introvert than I previously thought.  

Why is it important for people to support the arts, even during times of uncertainty?
 
It's always important to support the arts, but now more than ever in my opinion.  Unfortunately, creating art is hardly ever the only way that artists support themselves; just like me, most artists are furloughed from their main source of income.  They've turned to their art as an outlet, as well as a possible form of income. It's especially important to continue to support the artists in the community.

What are your book recommendations for those who are looking for material to read during mass quarantine?
 
My favorite books are I Am the Messenger and Bridge of Clay by Markus Zusak.  They're both excellent depictions of all of the pain, happiness, and simple pleasures that life has to offer.  Also, I'm currently rereading my favorite memoir, The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls.  It's a heartbreaking and heartwarming true story of the life of a family growing up in poverty in the United States. 
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