The Illusion of Connection: Navigating Social Media in the World of Art

In an era dominated by social media, it is easy to forget the core human desire that unites us all: the need to be seen, valued, and appreciated. We crave real connection. Yet, in the whirlwind of likes, shares, and follower counts, it seems the very platforms created to bring us together have instead set the stage for a rat race. Where numbers often overshadow the distinction of genuine engagement.

For artists, this reality presents a unique challenge. Every time I’ve showcased my work in a physical setting, I've encountered heartfelt conversations and more often than not sales. The outcome feels organic and deeply rewarding. These in-person exchanges involve a beautiful symphony of senses: eye contact, the warmth of a handshake, or the subtle language of expression that words alone cannot convey. The connection feels real and grounded.

Social media, by contrast, sometimes falls short of this depth. It can feel more like a mirror that reflects back only what we hope others will see, rather than offering a window into genuine connection. Comments, likes, and views can provide validation, but they often skim the surface. There’s something irreplaceable about true, in-person interaction, a level of communication that technology, despite all its advancements, hasn’t quite captured.

We live in a world flooded with messages to "buy, buy, buy." The rush to monetize everything, the push for profit at any cost, permeates almost every platform and art is not immune to this pressure. This relentless emphasis on profit can make it tempting to slip into a mindset where art becomes just another product to sell. I find myself questioning: at what cost? When does the pursuit of numbers and sales begin to chip away at the heart and purpose of creativity?

For me, the purpose of art isn’t simply to drive sales, it is to engage, to evoke, to offer a glimpse into something deeper. Art is meant to stir thoughts, to invite conversation, to connect on a level that isn’t solely transactional. Yes, sales are a practical necessity for any artist. But I’ve found myself unwilling to sacrifice my integrity in the pursuit of them. To create with the sole aim of achieving popularity or profit seems to risk something vital: the authenticity of my voice and the intent behind my work.

As someone from an older generation, navigating social media’s fast-evolving landscape often feels like playing catch-up. Many people commend younger generations for their technological prowess and rightly so. But I wonder, sometimes, if that proficiency comes at a cost. Has the convenience of digital communication perhaps diluted the quality of our connections?

I continue to use platforms like Facebook and Instagram because they do offer valuable exposure for my work. They are tools, and like any tool, they’re only as meaningful as the way we choose to wield them. For me, it’s a delicate balancing act. A fine line between leveraging these platforms for reach and remembering that my art is more than just a product to be marketed. It’s a reflection of my journey, a testament to a life lived authentically.

In the end, art is about life itself, the vibrant, messy, distinguishable beauty of it. While social media offers new ways to share this journey, I believe it’s important not to lose sight of what we are really seeking: not simply numbers or sales, but real connection, genuine appreciation, and a reminder that life is more than a fleeting post or a filtered image. Social media is a tool, but life, the real, unfiltered kind, is still out there waiting to be lived.