In moments of struggle, the act of making—and the fruits of that labor—feel all the more vital.

In the wake of COVID-19 and the ensuing lockdowns, as many face new or heightened obstacles, innumerable makers have been forced to shutter studios, showrooms, and shops—and find new ways to create. Now an online exhibition, titled Evolved Resolve, honors that perseverance by spotlighting new works by 40 womxn artists and designers, produced primarily during lockdown.

Presented by Incollect and Female Design Council, a professional membership organization for female and female-identified individuals in design, the virtual show was curated by FDC founder Lora Appleton for the 2020 Los Angeles Design Festival. The inspiration behind Evolved Resolve was the creatives themselves. “I heard their stories of struggle, fear, and loss of business,” Appleton explains, “and simultaneously watched them come together, support one another and find ways to push through. To give credence to what they do; they move into the process, they use new materials, and they innovate. They found ways to create in makeshift corners, yards, and garages, finding unconventional means to foster their passion and craft during this stressful time. The show is proof that our community remains as creative as ever; its resilience made tangible.”

The shoppable exhibition includes furniture, art, sculpture, lighting, jewelry, textiles, and ceramics, with, as Appleton explains, “a focus on strong and unique forms.” Makers include the likes of ceramicist Malene Barnett, artist Mary Little, designer Eny Lee Parker, and sculptor Maria Moyer, among others.

In conjunction with the exhibition, Appleton, the FDC, and InCollect are launching a new grant initiative as well, Female Design Council Grant 01, to support Black womxn designers in the US.

Describing the experience of putting together the exhibition with members of the FDC community, particularly in light of recent events, Appleton says, “I’ve felt immensely inspired and reminded of what I do and why I do it...We are artists and designers and curators and makers, and we create. Even with our wings clipped, we heal and create. Womxn are tough as nails, and it’s been so inspiring to watch and be a part of.” ◆

Evolved Resolve is on view via InCollect through October 23rd.