It is important during this time of Coronavirus that we maintain access not just to news and information, but to the arts and culture. But how can we do this when lots of arts venues are yet to reopen?
The BBC is providing some free masterclasses enabling you to get creative at home.
For lovers of literature
Find out more about Shakespeare’s sonnets with Simon Callow. In this self-filmed Shakespeare Masterclass acclaimed actor, writer and director explores the riddle of Shakespeare’s Sonnets. Published in 1609 so many things about the sonnets are mysterious. Who is the young man Mr WH to whom they are dedicated? Who is the dark lady?
For those needing a good laugh?
Comedian Shazia Mirza shows us how to find laughter in lockdown and shows us how she generates stand up material in the current climate.
For art lovers
Try a watercolours masterclass on how to find creative ways to get through isolation. Bangladeshi born, British raised artist Rana Begum combines colour, light and shape to make minimalist abstract works. They are part sculpture, painting and architecture.
For more ideas to bring arts and culture into your home check out bbc arts
Some great online tours of galleries and museums are also featured on our libraries blog.
While libraries are closed you can also access lots of free online resources to get your culture fix. You can learn and try out e-learning tools to broaden your horizons from home.
RB Digital RB Digital is accessible free via the Libraries page and offers access to a range of magazines in addition to ebooks and audiobooks.
Premium titles include the National Geographic and Amateur Photographer
This so much for reading!
Hillingdon Libraries Blog 