Frustrations with social media as an artist

 

Now that we provided insights about putting yourself out there and committing to your art, let’s explore a topic that most of us hate to talk about, social media. Using social media for your art can be challenging due to assumptions such as feeling too old, the belief that true artists don't use social media, negative interactions you may have experienced, and the sometimes perplexing algorithm. All of these can make it seem like there's no point in utilizing social media for your artistic endeavors. Is your head exploding yet?

But social media and art make a fantastic pair. Despite these hurdles it provides a valuable platform to showcase your artwork and connect with a wider audience.  This took me a long time to learn. I started an Instagram account in 2013 and never really took it seriously until very recently.  Now I have four accounts that I juggle every day and absolutely love the challenge, most of the time.

At first, I had no idea how to utilize all the fun and easy ways to edit and manipulate my art. My sons’ lovely girlfriend @pr.islandgirl.tay who is a digital creator sat down with me for one week and showed me the basics on editing, posting, reels and stories. I learned how to control social media that worked for me. I played with all the editing tools that IG has to offer without buying apps that do it for you.

 I experiment all the time. I ask myself how I would like my art to look like on social media, the answer is; real. I want to be as true to my art as I am to anything else I present. 

Think about what makes you click that heart and start following people. 

What specific aspects of social media in relation to your art do you find most challenging or interesting?

Remember persistence and finding your unique approach can help overcome these obstacles. So, show up, do the work, be present and keep going.

~ Pamela