I’m confused what the difference is. The lockdowns are a response to the pandemic.

If you’re suggesting the lockdowns are unnecessary or poorly managed that seems like a different discussion than this.

And if we want to cast blame I personally would blame, at least in the U.S., how little arts are valued - especially when it comes to providing arts education in public schools.

The federal government could be paying artists to produce work which could then be distributed free to help all of us as we get through this.

One of many possible paths not taken.