Balancing Art and Community with the Pressures of Social Media
I’ve been wanting to talk about a struggle many of us face in this digital age: the delicate balance between creating art, nurturing our communities, and managing the constant pressure to generate content for social media.
As someone deeply immersed in both artistic endeavors and community building, I understand the feeling of being stretched thin, trying to meet the demands of an online presence while staying true to our passions.
The Dilemma: Art vs. Content Creation
Art is our sanctuary, a way to express our creativity and share our gifts with the world. Community is our backbone, providing support, strength, and a sense of belonging.
Yet, social media often demands that we transform these sacred practices into bite-sized, aesthetically pleasing snippets designed for likes, shares, and algorithms.
This indirect pressure can be discouraging, leaving us feeling overwhelmed and questioning whether our efforts are genuinely impactful.
Understanding the Pressure
Let's acknowledge why this pressure exists:
Visibility: Social media platforms reward frequent posting, which can lead to increased visibility and opportunities.
Engagement: Regular content keeps your audience engaged and helps grow your community.
Validation: Positive feedback from social media can boost morale and provide a sense of accomplishment.
However, it's crucial to remember that our worth and the value of our work are not defined by algorithms or the number of followers we have.
We are dealing with real and sometimes raw human emotion. As an artist, I am inclined to attach way more value to human emotion and the true deep expression of it over some false sense of accomplishment because a particular post garnered extra views or likes.
Navigating the Balance
Finding a balance between art, community, and social media is an ongoing journey. I’ll always prioritize my students and their families, fellow artists, and community members’ emotions and thoughts over a social media “presence.” But, in a world driven by social media platforms, there are unavoidable aspects to being active on these platforms to grow your business and to inform people on what you do and what you have to offer them.
Here are some strategies that have helped me navigate this delicate dance:
1. Prioritize Authenticity
In a world where everything seems curated for perfection, authenticity stands out. Share your genuine experiences, struggles, and triumphs. People connect with real stories and raw emotions. It’s okay to show the messy side of the creative process—your audience will appreciate your honesty and relatability.
2. Set Boundaries
Establish clear boundaries for your time and energy. Designate specific periods for creating art, engaging with your community, and managing social media. Protect your creative space from the constant pull of notifications and digital distractions. This balance will allow you to fully immerse yourself in each activity without feeling overwhelmed.
3. Embrace Imperfection
Social media often promotes an unrealistic standard of perfection. Embrace the imperfections in your work and your process. Celebrate the small victories and progress you make along the way. Remember, art is about the journey, not just the final product.
The Impact of Community
One of the most rewarding aspects of balancing art and community is the impact it has on both the artist and the audience.
Our Sobheye Wou Fan sessions, for example, have become a sanctuary for women to explore their creativity and find healing through art. These intimate gatherings allow us to connect on a deeper level, share our stories, and support each other in ways that go beyond social media metrics.
Stories of Transformation
I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformation that art can bring into people’s lives. Participants in our therapeutic art sessions often leave feeling inspired, motivated, and more confident.
One woman, who had been in therapy for years, told me that our session was the first time she felt truly able to express herself. Her tears of gratitude reminded me of the profound impact our work can have.
Another participant shared how the positive energy from our sessions stayed with her for days, influencing her interactions and boosting her overall well-being. These stories are a testament to the power of art and community to uplift and inspire.
Moving Forward with Purpose
As we continue to navigate the demands of social media, let’s stay grounded in our purpose. Our mission is to create, heal, and connect—values that go beyond likes and shares.
By prioritizing authenticity, setting boundaries, and embracing imperfection, we can find a balance that honors our art, supports our community, and manages the pressures of the digital world.
Thank you for being a part of this journey. Let’s continue to create, connect, and uplift each other, both online and offline.
