What's wrong with how most artists use social media, and what should they do instead?
Most artists run what can be called the ‘Art Gatling gun’—constantly posting their art, more art, studio shots, art in progress, art for sale, sale announcements, just art, art, art, and more art. This is like running commercials 24/7. Nobody tunes into a channel that only shows commercials. Your art is the commercial—it’s what you’re selling. But people need programming that entertains them, makes them laugh, scares them, makes them think, and inspires their emotions. In real life, at a gallery opening, you’d have a normal conversation—you’d talk about yourself, your background, your inspiration, your journey. Social media should be a conversation too. Share who you are as a human being: Are you a dog or cat person? Where do you live? Where did you grow up? What do you do on vacation? Are you married, single, have children? People need to get to know, like, and trust you. Art sales are 50% meritocracy based on the work’s quality and 50% based on whether people know, like, and trust the artist. Stop hiding behind the canvas or lens and let people in.
Asked by synthesized from teaching · Answered by Patrick · Art Business Webinar · 2026-08-26