The Pros and Cons of Social Media Algorithms for Modern Artists

Social media has significantly changed the way modern artists operate, making it easier than ever to showcase their work to a broader audience. While it has clearly helped artists gain visibility, social media algorithms have created a new set of challenges for them to overcome. In this blog post, we will explore how the algorithm is both a good thing and a bad thing for artists, and how they can leverage it to their advantage.

The Pros of Social Media Algorithms for Artists

The algorithms on social media platforms have been designed to reward content that receives the most engagement. Thus, well-crafted posts that get shares, likes, and comments tend to get more visibility and reach a wider audience, which can be great news for modern artists. The algorithm allows artists to be more strategic with their content and showcase their talent effectively to the masses.

Professional art collectors are active on social media platforms, which means that having a strong online presence is a necessity for artists. Social media algorithms make it easier for artists to gain exposure and build their brands, culminating in more sales and collaborations. The algorithm, therefore, facilitates a direct line of communication between artists and their potential clients, effectively bridging the gap between them.

The Cons of Social Media Algorithms for Artists

Social media algorithms can sometimes be unpredictable and unfair, disadvantaging artists who don't have thousands of followers or a high engagement rate. Additionally, the algorithms are difficult to master and are undoubtedly a moving target ... what works today may not work tomorrow, because the algorithms are always being tweaked.

Overreliance on social media has forced modern artists to be in a perpetual state of competition with their peers for attention and sales. This has led to conformism and homogenization of art, where artists produce works that are solely designed to be popular or ‘trending’ at the moment. In the absence of social media's algorithmic effects, artists might feel more inclined to create works that are unique and personal, leading to a more diverse landscape of art.

How Artists Can Leverage the Algorithms

The need to create good content that's relevant and interesting to your followers is paramount. This is the surefire way to get engagement and, ultimately, visibility. Artists should also aim to create an emotional connection with their audience, harnessing the power of storytelling. This will help them build strong ties with their existing following and encourage them to share their work with others.

The use of hashtags is also crucial for modern artists to attract people outside of their immediate followers. Artists should do research on which tags are relevant to their particular style and subject matter and use them cautiously. Using too many tags or using irrelevant tags can negatively affect your posts’ visibility.

In many ways, social media algorithms have helped modern artists to connect with potential clients and even sell their work. Still, the algorithms can be unpredictable and disadvantageous to artists who are just starting and don't have a following yet. The key to leveraging social media algorithms is to create compelling, relevant content that speaks to your followers and taps into their emotions. Additionally, artists must be strategic with their hashtags and engage their followers regularly. By doing this, artists can take advantage of social media's tremendous opportunity and stand out in a crowded marketplace.