Why do I keep getting only likes and follows from other artists on social media, but no sales? Is the algorithm working against me?

The algorithm isn’t rigged against you—the problem is how you’re marketing. Most artists run what I call the ‘Art Gatling gun’: art, art, art, more art, in-progress art, studio shots with art, carousel posts of art, all day long. But people are wired to make purchasing decisions from people they know, like, and trust. It’s nearly impossible to form that relationship with art alone. No one wants to be sold to constantly—would you watch a TV channel that only shows commercials? No. TV stations create programming that entertains, inspires, and makes you laugh to earn the right to show commercials. Your art is the commercial. You need to create ‘programming’—share who you are as a person. Where did you grow up? What led you to art? What do you do when you’re not creating? Dog or cat person? Coffee or tea? Give people a way to know, like, and trust YOU. Then they’ll care about your art. Think of it like a gallery opening: you wouldn’t just point at art on walls repeatedly. You’d have conversations, share your story, connect as a human being. Do that online.

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Asked by generic artist struggling with social media · Answered by Patrick · Art Business Webinar · 2026-09-11