Instagram vs Reality
Social media has become an integral part of our lives, transforming the way we communicate, connect, and share information. From Facebook to Instagram, Twitter to TikTok, social media platforms have enabled us to stay connected with loved ones, express ourselves, and showcase our experiences to the world.
However, amidst the seemingly endless stream of posts, likes, and shares, there is a darker side to social media that often goes unnoticed - the creation of false expectations and standards that can have detrimental effects on individuals, particularly in the realm of art.
Time is a topic that I often find myself discussing in both my art classes and personal art practice. Creating art requires time, not just in physically producing the artwork, but also in gathering inspiration and visualising the final product. It involves moments of stillness, where I allow my senses to absorb the environment around me, from the play of light and movement to the interplay of colours and shapes. In these moments, I can create art without even holding a paintbrush.
Social media has become a go-to source for artists to seek inspiration, connect with other artists, and share their creative process with a wider audience. However, one common phenomenon that has emerged is the false expectation of how long it takes to create or achieve something, fuelled by using time-lapse videos and short reels.
Whether it's a stunning painting, an intricately designed sculpture, or a meticulously drawn illustration, time-lapse videos on social media often condense hours or even days of work into a few seconds, giving the illusion that these creative achievements are quick and easy to attain. This can create unrealistic expectations, leading my students sometimes feeling discouraged or inadequate.
It's crucial to remember that creating art involves applying multiple layers that create depth and detail, and these layers need time to dry before progressing to the next stage. The speed at which something appears to be achieved on social media may not reflect the reality of the creative process. Art is a labour of love, requiring dedication, skill, and patience.
As artists, it's vital to embrace our uniqueness, stay true to our artistic vision, and let our creativity flourish at its own pace. The process of creating art is as important as the final product, and it's okay to take our time to bring our artistic vision to life.
Let's focus on the joy and fulfilment that comes from creating art in our own authentic way.