12/18/20 - 11/7/21

RESIST COVID | TAKE SIX is an artist-driven public health campaign by Syracuse University Artist-in-Residence Carrie Mae Weems to raise awareness of the disproportionate impact of this deadly virus on Black, Brown, and Native American communities. TAKE SIX refers to the recommended six feet of separation in social distancing.  

The campaign uses billboards, alternative messaging, public art projects, and other creative means to highlight the staggering death toll of COVID-19 and alert the general public. Through these efforts, it underscores the importance of social distancing, encourages public discussion, dispels the myths and dangers of false cures associated with the virus, and thanks our front line and essential workers. This effort is led by Weems’ Social Studies 101 in association with Pierre Loving, and THE OFFICE performing arts + film, which has worked with Weems on several public art and performance projects across the country. More information on the project can be found here.

Williams College Museum of Art is part of a collaboration to bring Carrie Mae Weems’ message to the Northern Berkshire/Southern Vermont region. Partners include: MASS MoCA, Clark Art Institute, Bennington Museum, ’62 Center for Theatre and Dance, Usdan Gallery at Bennington College, Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA), and the Town of Williamstown. In addition to billboards, images from the campaign will be seen on the WCMA exterior wall, local bus stop kiosks, on tote bags and postcards, and in many other places. Read the complete news release here.

Top banner image: Carrie Mae Weems, RESIST COVID/Take 6!. 2020-2021. Williams College Museum of Art. Photograph: Rebecca Dravis