Art in the Age of Social Media

Happy Wednesday CC fam. Thank you for joining me this week for an action packed edition of Creative Culture Corner. I have a great article for you on art in the age of social media. We have all adapted to primarily navigating our art careers on social media. This change has brought both positive and negatives with it, and we will dive into some of both. We have a featured thread of the week, a thought of the week, and an amazing artist spotlight featuring the extremely talented artist @Arezou69195500. Before we dive into the newsletter I want to take a second and ask you to share this newsletter if you find value in reading it each week. The bigger this platform grows, the more eyes are on the artists I feature every week. That’s enough of me rambling, lets go ahead and get into the good stuff.

In This Newsletter:

  • Art in the Age of Social Media

  • Artist Spotlight

  • Thought of the Week

  • Thread of the Week

Art in the Age of Social Media:

In a time where a single swipe can introduce you to an entirely new world of art, the digital age has unquestionably revolutionized both art creation and consumption. Social media platforms, from Instagram, TikTok, and now X have become virtual galleries where artists can exhibit their work to a global audience without ever stepping foot in a traditional gallery. But what does this democratization mean for artists?

A Platform for Emerging Artists

In the past, breaking into the art world often required connections, representation, and a good amount of luck. Now, artists can build a following online, garnering attention through likes, shares, and viral moments. Social media has leveled the playing field, giving emerging artists a platform to showcase their talent and interact directly with their audience. This is why I often talk about growing an audience and learning what works for your tweets and what doesn’t. The bigger your audience the more eyes can be on your artwork more accessible. It is worth putting in the work to learn how to navigate it.

The Challenge of Algorithms

While social media provides exposure, it also presents challenges. The algorithmic nature of these platforms can make visibility sporadic and unpredictable. Artists must not only create but also become savvy marketers, mastering engagement analytics and timing to ensure their art gets the eyes it deserves. See my actionable advice above, learn what works best for you and your tweets, learn how to write better content, and put in the time to make it work. If you do this now, you’ll be in a fantastic spot when the bull market returns.

Instant Feedback Loop

Artists are no longer waiting for critics' reviews to gauge the impact of their work. Comments, likes, and shares provide instant feedback, offering a real-time barometer of public opinion. However, this feedback can sometimes skew the creative process, tempting artists to create what is 'likable' rather than what is meaningful to them. Stay true to who you are, even if your art isn't received well initially. The more this space grows the more eyes will see your art, and there are people out there who will like it.

Consuming Art in Bits and Pixels

For the consumer, the ease of access to a wide array of art forms is both a blessing and a curse. While it introduces people to art they might never have encountered, it also encourages rapid, shallow engagement. The profundity of a piece can be lost when it's just one in a feed of thousands, viewed for a few seconds before being swiped away.

The Hybrid Model

Despite the rise of digital galleries, physical art spaces are far from obsolete. Many artists are adopting a hybrid model, using social media to attract a following and then directing that traffic to physical exhibitions. This approach offers a more holistic art experience, blending the best of both digital and physical worlds.

In summary, the intersection of art and social media is complex and ever-evolving. It has democratized access, yet simultaneously presented new hurdles for artists. As we continue to adapt to this digital age, one thing remains sure: art will continue to reflect the complexities of human experience, no matter the medium or platform it is shared on.

Artist Spotlight:

Arezou is a freelance illustrator and character designer from Iran. With 24 years of experience in physical art, Arezou began painting at the young age of 15. She has illustrated nearly 30 titles of books for children and teenagers, all of which were published in Iran. Beyond her illustrations, Arezou also shares her dream-inspired lullabies with the world. These lullabies are based on her own imaginative stories and aim to infuse the world with love, peace, and kindness.

Thought of the Week:

Time is Precious

Choose Your Path Wisely. Time is a non-renewable resource; don't squander it on paths that don't excite you.

Focus on Joy and Value

Investing time in what brings joy and value is non-negotiable. Make a list of activities that uplift you and allocate more time to them.

Reevaluate Your Path

If you're not thrilled about your current path, it's a sign to pivot. Don't stick to a path out of habit or fear of change.

Your time is finite. Make sure you're spending it on pursuits that bring you joy and enrich your life.

Thread of the Week:

Click the Image for Thread

Thank you for reading this newsletter. I hope you enjoyed it and I will see you right here next Wednesday. See you then!

Much Love,

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