Supporting our artist community is at the heart of what we do. Each day we’re going to be sharing some important tools, opportunities, and resources for artists on our blog. Follow along and reach out if you need additional support.

Today we’re going to talk about the safest way to go about wearing a face mask.

**FIND OUT HOW TO SUPPORT SUPPLYING RICHMOND’S ESSENTIAL WORKERS WITH MASKS BELOW.

While debates have been going around on the helpfulness of masks to decrease the spread of the virus, the CDC is now recommending people consider wearing face masks outside even if they don’t feel ill. This is because the virus can spread through coughs, sneezes, and other respiratory droplets for 48 hours before the individual starts feeling symptoms. Some may never feel symptoms but are still transmitting the virus.

This does not mean you should use medical grade N95 masks, as they are needed in hospitals where there is a short supply. MCV is accepting donations of any protective equipment you may have. Instead, this is where homemade masks come into play and can be vital in decreasing transmission rates of the virus.

The best fabrics for homemade masks are tight weave cotton, and it is good to STAY AWAY from synthetic fabric, polyester, and spandex.

PROTOCOL FOR SAFE MASK WEARING:

Wash your hands before you put your mask on
Once on, be mindful of not touching the mouth area or adjusting the mask too much.
Only touch the mask by the elastic
After one use, or if mask is damp, discard or wash your mask

To benefit from wearing a mask, you should only touch it from the the elastic straps once it is on. This is because if someone sneezes, coughs, or the virus would hit the mask and not your mouth, which is good, but if you touch the mask with your hands, the virus would now be on your hands, which could expose you to the virus.

In studies where masks fail, people aren’t using them correctly. Once it is on, you have to be mindful about touching it, adjusting it, pushing it down etc. As soon as it gets damp or you remove it, you must replace it with a new one or wash it.

While more people will be wearing masks outside, please remember to be considerate to others around you. Fear and anxiety around the Coronavirus has sparked an increase of hate crimes towards Asian communities as they are falsely being seen as carriers. Please look out for one another as Asian folks wearing masks are more susceptible to racist attacks.

WANT TO HELP RICHMOND’S ESSENTIAL WORKERS GET MASKS?

The Richmond Arts & Culture Workers Coalition (supported by Studio Two Three and 1708 Gallery) and in collaboration with VCU Arts and VCU da Vinci Center will engage skilled artists in the production of face masks for Richmond’s essential workers.