In today’s digital world, social media has significantly aided artists in sharing their work and connecting with audiences. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram and Pinterest have become essential tools for artists to showcase their work, reach their own followers and build their own reputation as an artist. However, while social media offers a quick, easy push to possible fame and recognition, it also hands unique challenges to artists that can affect their creative process and how they express themselves to the public. There are both benefits and potential drawbacks that artists can face from the audiences who view endless videos on art, critiquing without thinking first.
On one hand, social media can provide a place for artists to receive positive feedback, encouragement and recognition for their hard work. The comments section can help artists feel good about themselves with compliments and motivation. On the other hand, artists can also face negative criticism that discourages them from trying to post or even making art. This can be harmful to an artist’s self esteem because these types of hateful comments have the potential to make an artist feel inexperienced, not good enough or just plain bad. Even art that is jaw droppingly gorgeous can receive hateful comments, ranging from “So what AI program did you use?” or “That was obviously printed.” Even when artists prove to their audience that their work is true and real, there are still those who say they do not believe. Why do certain viewers choose to send these messages? This is why social media is a complex experience for many artists.
Artists at North understand both sides of this complicated topic. Simone Wright, a senior, believes that social media is a great place to showcase artwork.
“[Social media] allows for a lot of interaction and creative inspiration from like-minded users. However, as of now, it’s pretty much the only way to promote your artwork. Social media can be a great way to share your voice, but it also can be hit or miss when it comes to its effectiveness compared to traditional networking methods,” said Wright.
Wright points out how aspects of social media such as the comments section and the algorithms add to the controversy of an artwork’s outcome.
“The algorithm is horrible for artists. Generally, most social media platforms prioritize short form video content over still images or long clips now. Instagram is more of a portfolio website for artists now, rather than a way to gain any traction. [X] completely ruined its algorithm over the last year. Really the only place to post art now would be a personal website or platforms like art station,” said Wright.
Wright additionally explains how the comments affect young artists who try to showcase their work on social media.
“In my opinion, [the comments] lean more negative. From what I’ve seen, a lot of young artists on social media are deeply insecure about their work. On content made to teach or inform others with tips or guides for improving their art, the comments are overwhelmingly negative. There is a lot of accusatory language, specifically terms like ‘pretentious’ being used against educational creators,” said Wright.
Younger North artists, like freshmen Ellena Flores and Laney Etienne, believe that artists on social media do get recognition for their work, but they still face challenges.
“There are awesome artists on social media that are really talented and they get really popular. Sometimes, the algorithm treats them [the art] well or sometimes bad,” said Flores.
“If someone doesn’t like [the artist] they will most likely express that towards them even if the artist didn’t do anything wrong. I follow a lot of artists on Insta and there is a lot of hate towards them in the comments and notice that people will respond to comments. They will both either support the artist or support the hater,” said Etienne.
Giselle Zarza and Teya Reahm, both sophomores, think artists should still try to put their work out there for others, even though they can face challenges.
“I think it’s cool for artists to express themselves in social media, but with the recent AI work, it becomes annoying,” said Zarza.
“I think that when it comes to sharing your art, it’s kind of a competition and it kind of pushes people away from creating exactly what they want to create because drawing other things will get you more clout and engagement. People have to sacrifice their work and individuality for a short lived fame,” said Reahm.
Social media has made great opportunities for artists to get their name and artwork out in the real world. Though artists have to deal with the ups and downs of public feedback, social media allows artists to reach an audience and promote themselves. It is important to recognize that hate will always be somewhere on social media, whether big or small. That is why artists should help support each other in the artist community and encourage each other to keep going.
“Messaging people privately, joining small communities, interacting with fan bases, groups or individuals is gonna be the best way to show off your art. Going up to people and talking about your work, drawing in public, going to your local community center, etc. are equally, if not more, effective. Art is a very personal thing. Mass social media tends to limit that personability, meaning direct and close interaction is the best way to combat it,” Wright said.
