Why isn't just posting my artwork on social media enough to grow my following and sales?

Posting only artwork is what’s called ‘the art gatling gun’—art, art, art, art, non-stop. This doesn’t work because human beings make purchase decisions based on people they know, like, and trust. It’s very difficult to establish that kind of connection with just 2D images. Your artwork is essentially the commercials, and nobody sits down to watch a channel that only shows commercials. You need programming—which means sharing who you are as a person. Talk about your life, your family, your interests, why you create, what inspires you. These are the things that build bonds with people. Once they connect with you, they’ll want to see your art and eventually buy it. Think of it like a television channel: you need programming (your story) to justify showing commercials (your art).

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