Five Questions for Rike Weiß

Rike Weiß studies Art-Education-Therapy. The coronavirus pandemic has also changed her daily study routine. She experienced the shutdown in Istanbul and is now attending lectures virtually. In the interview, she explains why she is currently in Istanbul and where she has relocated her workspace.

1. You are studying Art-Education-Therapy. The coronavirus crisis has also changed everyday university life at Alanus University. The studios are closed. Where have you relocated your workspace to?

University life, and especially artistic work, has changed. I am currently taking a painting project as part of my degree program. At the moment, I am not in my usual surroundings in Bonn or with my family in Krefeld, but in Istanbul. Here I am staying in a shared apartment and have set up a workspace for myself in a small corner at the large table in the living room. I do a lot of writing there and try to capture all my impressions.

2. How has your daily study routine changed, and what challenges are there in the virtual lectures?

My daily study routine has changed completely. Normally, I would now be spending most of my time in the studio at Johannishof or at Campus II – Villestraße. Since this is currently not possible, I am trying to make the best of the situation. Of course, I did not expect these severe restrictions and therefore also have no access to materials. Apart from a few fineliners and some paper, I have nothing available with which I can express myself artistically. Nevertheless, I am trying to use the time to paint or write. The virtual lectures and seminars are proving extremely helpful and instructive for me, and I am able to follow them well. Whether I attend the courses from my hometown or from Istanbul does not make much difference. I am very grateful for the wide range of options and for the way the university and the professors are responding to the current situation.

3. Is the crisis inspiring you artistically?

Definitely! I find this situation extremely interesting. This previously unprecedented situation is prompting me to rethink things and is sparking many creative ideas in me.

4. You are currently in Istanbul. What are you doing there?

My sister is currently spending her semester abroad here. Before the situation became serious and worsened, I had planned a five-day visit during my semester break. A few days after my arrival, the borders were closed and flights were canceled, so I have been stuck here since March 11. I am now living with my sister in her room in a shared apartment that we share with other Erasmus students.

5. What do you miss during this extraordinary time?

I have to admit that I do not miss very much. I have everything I need here and am well provided for. Every now and then, however, when I sit on the terrace and look at the city from afar, I feel a little wistful because I cannot explore this impressive and special city. I only leave the house to go shopping, and at weekends there is even a complete curfew.