Tipping Points: Simplify Social Media

I don't know if it's because Underground Art School has been asking about simplicity recently or because holding down my 5 jobs is super complicated but, I feel we need to try to simplify more.

Just because there is a cool new social media site out there, should you jump into using it? In art [as in life] you have a message you are trying to convey and the tools you use will effect that message. Think about where you want your visitors to be when they see or hear about your work. Not every device can perform every task so you have to think about it.

Image: Kelly Murphy

For social media it's the same thing. Not every social networking is useful for every single person or company. You have to research, try them out, and see which ones suits you. This is something I'm just learning because like any one else I have my favorite sites. Facebook and Twitter are what I am most used to and the thought that any other platform could be better for some one else was hard for me to understand.

TIP: Right now new social media platforms are popping up every day, many of which are specific to a certain demographic. For artists there is ArtBabble, Flickr, Twitter, Facebook, DevianArt, Ning, Vimeo, and Society6. It is a lot of work bringing value as a member to these social communities while having the time to create artwork to share on these sites. You don't need them all, you just need to be a part of the sites that feel right to you.

With all of the options out there today it is really important as an artist to have clear reasons for doing what you do, and where you are sharing it online. 

Gina Furnari is a recent graduate of The Hartford Art School and creator of "non-traditional" paintings. She works as the Education Assistant/New Media Developer intern for The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum in Connecticut, and is also the New media consultant for The Clyde Otis Music Group in New Jersey.