We’re in a crisis culturally. Social media and AI are destroying the very way in which art is valued and consumed; the algorithms online just aren’t cutting it, and AI prompts to make art are killing visual art and handmade craft. That’s where you come in. You’re not a bot, you’re a fan! How can you help? Here are 10 different ways to show your support. Why? Because being a visual artist is draining both financially and emotionally.
Reshare Their Work Thoughtfully
When you see something you love that feels original and speaks to you, hit that repost button. This button on social media looks like two arrows in a circle!
Take it to the next level online with a like, comment, and post to your story. This boosts an artist’s online presence dramatically. The more engagement, the better.
If you take a photo of an artist’s work, tag them and credit them for their work.
This is free and takes less than 2 minutes to do. every little bit helps!
Be an Advocate For Art in Culture & Society
An interesting question was brought into a lecture at university: “Why does society seem to see culture as split by either liking sports or liking art? why can’t it be both?”
Currently in Australia, the government provides a vast difference in grant funding. Sporting received $283 million. Visual art received $14 million.
Why does there have to be an uneven divide between what is supported culturally when we have such great artists here in Australia that need our support?
Talk to your friends. Vote with art in mind. Encourage your sporty friends to come to galleries. Open up the idea of both cultures coexisting with equal funding.
Commission An Artwork
Instead of buying mass-produced decor which often lacks character or sentimental value, commission artwork by a visual artist you admire.
Commissions can come in all shapes and sizes. This can look like invitations, framed artwork, canvas artwork, and more!
Credit Artist’s Properly
This one goes without saying! If you take photos of an artist’s work, credit them. If you see a post of their work, tag them and ask the OP to credit them.
Taking inspiration from someone? Drop a line in the artist statement to credit the artist whose work you were inspired by. This helps art historians better understand who you are as a person.
Pay Fairly – Don’t Ask For “Exposure”
Exposure doesn’t cut it. All creatives deserve professional compensation. Exposure doesn’t pay for materials, rent, food, or anything else.
Visual artists are some of the lowest-paid workers in the creative industries. Being cheap by asking for work through payment such as trade or “exposure” is not okay.
Buy Their Art or Products
If you’re at an exhibition and you see something you love, buy it! Many artists rely on people to buy their art to keep fuelling their business. Your support helps their growth. Some art purchases can be tax deductible.*
The gifting of art can be extremely hard to do. This is where artisan products come in. Gift ceramics, sticker sheets, or small works of art. Something which speaks true to your friendship or reminds you of them!
*Always get independent financial advice based on your location with a licensed tax agent.
Go To Their Exhibitions & Events
Who doesn’t love seeing or being immersed in art? Art feeds the soul beyond measure. It’s where inspiration can be born and doubt can be eliminated. Not only that, but you are supporting them by being present.
Lots of artists and organisations worry about not having people turn up. Bring a friend. Have a first date there. You might meet new friends. That is the joy of showing up!
Join Their Mailing List
Most artists and art organisations have email lists. This is where they discuss upcoming events, exhibitions, products or collections.
Join them! Go to their website and sign up.
Tell Your Friends About Their Art
Have a yarn about your favourite artist with your closest friends. Tt the hairdresser? Show them too. Getting your teeth cleaned at the dentist? Tell them about them too! At an art gallery? Tell the curator. Show them their work.
Each person you tell is widening the artist’s berth of network. Be their cheer squad from the sidelines.