A local organization that focuses on bringing communities together through art is doing just that during the coronavirus pandemic. 

Cope NYC has recruited several artists to create masks, and are also holding a competition for children and teens to get creative. 

Paola Martinez-Fiterre, Sadaf Padder, and Mshari Whale are artists who create paintings with wires and crystals.

 

However, now for the first time, they are creating masks. They have partnered with the New York City Art Teachers Association and United Federation of teachers. 

They are asking for submissions of mask designs from students, and the artists will then create the best one. 

The coronavirus pandemic put a pause on many of their projects. They are now working with Cope NYC for the artists in mask residency.

They are using their artistic talent and are making masks to give for free for essential workers and people in need in the community. 

The deadline for students to submit is May 27.