The hottest Creativity Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Art & Illustration Topics

Tell Us What You're Doing

The Honest Broker • 8378 implied HN points • 26 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Community Creativity Art Social media Personal Projects
  1. People in the community are engaged in interesting projects. It's great to see that many are still creating and doing things rather than just consuming entertainment.
  2. The open mic format encourages sharing personal projects, which can inspire others to be active and creative too.
  3. Reading about these projects can spark new ideas and motivate those who may have stopped doing things recently.

A letter from the guy asking all the questions

The Sublime Newsletter • 118 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Art Authenticity Hope Creativity Interviews
  1. Talking to inspiring people can help you feel hopeful and connected, especially when you're going through tough times. It's like having a support system that lifts your spirits.
  2. It's important to ask big questions in life, like how to stay positive or authentic. Engaging in these discussions can lead to personal growth and new insights.
  3. Being open to conversations can change your outlook on life. You may find that sharing experiences can lessen feelings of loneliness and cynicism.

The Film and Studio That 'Should Not Exist'

Animation Obsessive • 13095 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🎨 Art & Illustration Animation Film Design Creativity Production
  1. Cinema Fantasma, a unique stop-motion studio in Mexico, created the first Mexican stop-motion feature film called 'I Am Frankelda.' Their work shows how creativity can thrive even with tight budgets.
  2. The film has a fun, imaginative storyline with memorable characters and songs that resonate with audiences. Its premiere at the Annecy Festival was met with excitement and applause.
  3. The Ambriz brothers, who run Cinema Fantasma, faced many challenges but remained determined to bring their vision to life. They hope their success inspires more stop-motion projects in Mexico in the future.

'Life Is Too Short to Make Remakes'

Animation Obsessive • 13813 implied HN points • 10 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Art Animation Events Creativity Film
  1. The Annecy Festival is a huge event for animation, attracting around 18,000 visitors and showcasing unique and powerful art from around the world.
  2. Michel Gondry emphasizes the importance of originality and creativity in art, believing that life is too short to spend making remakes of existing works.
  3. New films like 'The Mourning Children' highlight the dedication of animators to produce authentic and impactful stories by deeply researching historical contexts.

dancing with the brain demons: what artists really need (spoiler: each other)

Both Are True • 65 implied HN points • 24 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Art Creativity Community Expression Identity
  1. Artists often struggle with inner doubts and negative thoughts, which can be seen as 'demonic messages' that hinder creativity. It's important to recognize these feelings and understand they are part of the creative process.
  2. Balancing being an artist with helping other artists is a challenge, but creating supportive spaces for collaboration and interaction can be rewarding and impactful.
  3. Community is essential for artists; connecting with others can provide motivation, inspiration, and a sense of belonging that enhances the creative experience.
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Introducing: Whoa, Vol. 1

The Sublime Newsletter • 257 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Conversations Humanity Creativity Authenticity Community
  1. In a world full of quick and superficial content, people crave deep conversations that feel real and meaningful.
  2. The project 'Whoa, Vol. 1' features a collection of interesting talks with various creatives and thinkers, focusing on human experiences and challenges.
  3. It highlights the importance of honesty and vulnerability in discussions, aiming to inspire and connect readers in a genuine way.

"The Perfect Writing Space"

Unmapped Storylands with Elif Shafak • 10237 implied HN points • 13 Oct 24
📚 Literature Writing Inspiration Authors Creativity Personal narrative
  1. You don't need a fancy or big space to write. Even a small, cozy place can be inspiring and productive.
  2. What really matters for writing is having peace of mind and a sense of freedom. It's about your inner space more than your outer space.
  3. Everyone has their own way to get inspired. Music can be a powerful tool to help focus and create.

Creativity in an Age of AI.

The Future Does Not Fit In The Containers Of The Past • 27 implied HN points • 22 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Creativity Art Innovation Media Branding Technology
  1. AI can empower creativity by allowing everyone to be more involved in the creative process. It's not just a tool; it's a partner that helps unlock new ideas.
  2. Brands need to focus on storytelling and connection rather than just data-driven promotion. Many brands are failing because they're not nurturing their long-term identity and culture.
  3. Creativity comes in two types: pure and applied. Pure creativity is about self-expression and groundbreaking ideas, while applied creativity is improving existing creations. Both are important for innovation and growth.

Leisure

Soaring Twenties • 162 implied HN points • 02 Mar 25
🎭️ Culture Leisure Arts Lifestyle Philosophy Creativity
  1. Leisure is important for a happy life. It's not just about doing nothing; it's a skill that can be learned and appreciated.
  2. Working for a living isn't the only way to find fulfillment. Many people would prefer to spend their time on hobbies and creative projects.
  3. Understanding and mastering leisure can help us slow down and enjoy life more intentionally, just like people in ancient times did.

Writing While Needed By Others

Writerly Things with Brooke Warner • 2400 implied HN points • 20 Oct 24
📚 Literature Writing Authors Memoir Creativity Self-reflection
  1. It's hard to write when you feel like others need you all the time. Some writers find they need to physically separate themselves from distractions to focus.
  2. Writers, especially women and moms, often feel guilty for taking time for themselves to write. It's important to remind ourselves that our creative pursuits are valuable too.
  3. There are strategies to combat feelings of selfishness and guilt when prioritizing writing. Finding what works for you can help make writing a regular part of your life.

The Second Annual Blog Post Competition, Extravaganza, and Jamboree

Experimental History • 7495 implied HN points • 27 May 25
🎭️ Culture Blogging Internet Renaissance Creativity Community
  1. The internet is a big experiment we're all part of, and everyone can contribute to how it turns out. Your actions online can shape this space, so don't just sit back and watch!
  2. Blogging is like a block party where everyone is welcome. More voices can make the experience richer, so don't be afraid to jump in and share your thoughts.
  3. There's a chance for everyone to be heard on the internet. Even if you think no one will listen, your unique perspective might be just what someone else is looking for.

Belonging While Building

Anima Mundi • 103 implied HN points • 20 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Community Creativity Relationships Leadership Well-being
  1. Creating something meaningful is best done with others. We don't have to build alone and should look for support from those around us.
  2. True belonging comes from being seen for who we are, not just what we do. It's about finding people who understand and appreciate our efforts.
  3. Building relationships based on trust and care helps us grow together. It’s important to find spaces where we feel safe and accepted while we create.

Places you have no reason to be

The Elif Life • 1834 implied HN points • 10 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Travel Art Literature Creativity Education
  1. It's okay to explore places without a specific reason; your curiosity itself is a reason to go. Sometimes, just following your feelings can lead to valuable experiences.
  2. Setting aside time for yourself, like an 'artist date,' is important for creativity. It helps you connect with your inner artist and can inspire new ideas.
  3. Taking detours in life can lead to unexpected insights and connections. Embracing spontaneity might open doors to experiences you never planned for.

From “walking in the desert” to Escaping Flatland

Building the Builders • 2 implied HN points • 25 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Psychology Ambition Creativity Writing Personal Growth
  1. Raising your ambition starts with believing in yourself. When you realize you can do more than you think, it opens up new possibilities in all areas of life.
  2. Taking time for self-exploration can boost your creativity. Allowing yourself to write freely without judgment can help overcome writer's block.
  3. Pursuing your goals requires a balance between fun and responsibility. Setting aside time for both exploration and focused work helps you stay productive while enjoying the process.

Not Unnatural

The American Peasant • 2295 implied HN points • 06 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Music Art Craft Technology Creativity
  1. Using Auto-Tune in music can ruin the natural sound of a singer, making it feel fake. It's better to embrace human imperfections, like being slightly off-key, which can make music more relatable and emotional.
  2. In woodworking, some people use technology to create perfect shapes and designs, but this can take away the charm of natural, handmade pieces. Simplicity and imperfections often hold more beauty.
  3. Technology can help us do tasks more easily and still produce good results, but when it creates things that are too complex or unnatural, it loses its appeal. Authenticity and human touch are more valued.

The Anticlimax of Becoming an Author

Writerly Things with Brooke Warner • 2261 implied HN points • 06 Oct 24
📚 Literature Writing Publishing Books Authors Creativity
  1. Becoming an author can feel like a big letdown after the excitement of publication. The rush of attention fades, and new authors often feel disappointed.
  2. It's normal to have mixed feelings after publishing. Authors may feel exposed, especially if they've shared personal stories, which can lead to vulnerability and sadness.
  3. After publication, it's helpful to focus on future projects and give yourself time to adjust. Good things can come later, like new readers or opportunities, so try to enjoy the journey.

Donkey work

Austin Kleon • 6154 implied HN points • 09 Aug 24
📚 Literature Writing Reading Books Authors Creativity
  1. Writing can feel like hard work, but it's satisfying when a piece takes on a life of its own. Those moments when creativity flows can make all the effort worth it.
  2. Many writers find joy in finishing something rather than the writing process itself. It can take a long time to feel that payoff, but it's really rewarding when you finally do.
  3. Being in between drafts can be a peaceful time for a writer. It's a chance to relax without worrying about the next steps until the next draft comes back.

On Turning Rejection into Motivation and Mastering the Art of the Pitch with Courtney Kocak

The Sub Club Newsletter • 59 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24
📚 Literature Writing Publishing Essays Creativity Inspiration
  1. Rejection can be a powerful motivator. It helps writers keep going and improves their pitching skills.
  2. Building good relationships with editors makes the publishing process easier and more successful.
  3. Having excitement and belief in your writing is key. If you love your work, others are more likely to get on board with it too.

I said no to $20,000 because writers must take a moral stand on AI

The Intrinsic Perspective • 40255 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Ethics Creativity Technology Media
  1. Writers should think carefully about the use of AI in their work. Making money is tempting, but authenticity and moral choices matter more.
  2. AI-generated content can create false connections. It's not the same as having a real conversation with a human being.
  3. Supporting human writers and creators is important to maintain authenticity in culture. Subscriptions to real human content can help keep that alive.

local man sends 2nd email after 1st only gets 3 responses

Both Are True • 102 implied HN points • 17 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Creativity Communication Self-reflection Community Personal Growth
  1. Sometimes, when reaching out, we can feel anxious if we don't get the responses we expect. It's normal to worry about how others perceive us.
  2. Sending a follow-up message can be scary, but it can also be an opportunity to express yourself honestly. You might be surprised by how good it feels.
  3. Being open about our imperfections can help reduce feelings of shame. It's better to be genuine than to strive for a perfect image.

How I Write

Democratizing Automation • 395 implied HN points • 06 Jun 25
🕹 Technology AI Writing Communication Creativity Learning
  1. Writing improves with practice and prioritization. The more you write, the better you get at it.
  2. Finding your passion and voice is key to writing well. When you write about what you love, it becomes easier and more enjoyable.
  3. AI tools can support writing, but they also make it harder for new writers to learn. With auto-complete options, it takes more effort to become a good writer.

The comfort of drawing Batman

Austin Kleon • 2018 implied HN points • 20 Aug 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Drawing Creativity Comics Cultural Commentary Personal Reflection
  1. Drawing can be a comforting activity, especially during times of boredom or stress. For some, like the author, drawing familiar characters like Batman brings joy.
  2. Airplane mode can enhance productivity because it eliminates distractions. This can turn a flight into a great opportunity to focus and create.
  3. Comfort work is any creative task you do when you don't know what else to tackle. It's nice to have simple activities, like drawing, to fall back on.

300 words for 300 posts

Boundless by Paul Millerd • 283 implied HN points • 09 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Writing Creativity Personal Growth Communication Community
  1. Having a regular writing practice helps keep creativity flowing. It's a great way to express thoughts and connect with others.
  2. Quality doesn't always need to be perfect; what's important is to keep sharing. Sometimes, just getting your ideas out is the best part of the process.
  3. Building a community around your work can lead to unexpected friendships and opportunities. Engaging with your audience is rewarding and fulfilling.

Do Artists Suffer?

The Honest Broker • 9009 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Art Politics Psychology History Creativity
  1. Suffering is often seen as part of being an artist, but research shows it might not be true for creativity. Instead, suffering may boost ambition, especially in leaders.
  2. History shows that many successful leaders and creatives had difficult childhoods, like losing parents. This loss may actually spark creativity rather than hinder it.
  3. The idea that suffering drives creativity is backed by studies showing a link between personal loss and artistic achievement throughout history.

Get Rich in Your Parent's Basement

The Honest Broker • 13464 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Media Entertainment Music Creativity Technology
  1. The media and entertainment industry is changing. Indie creators are making more money now, thanks to platforms like YouTube that pay them fairly.
  2. Streaming services like Netflix are struggling because they're trying to cater to viewers with less attention. Making content for casual watching can backfire and lose loyalty from audiences.
  3. Big tech companies are starting to mimic each other. For example, Microsoft is pretending to be like Google instead of standing out on its own, showing a lack of true innovation.

Q & A edition: on volatility in publishing (and candles)

How to Glow in the Dark • 439 implied HN points • 04 Oct 24
📚 Literature Publishing Writing Books Creativity Querying
  1. When querying agents about a new book, it's fine to directly email them if they previously showed interest. Just make sure to update the subject line and include your new manuscript.
  2. Publishing is a partnership, so approach agents with respect and mutual understanding. Both sides need to feel heard and valued for a successful collaboration.
  3. If you get a book deal, don't stress about tight deadlines for sequels. It's more likely that your publisher will not pursue a sequel if your first book doesn't sell well.

When you get confused

Austin Kleon • 6454 implied HN points • 31 May 24
🎭️ Culture Art Music Literature Media Creativity
  1. It's okay if your writing isn't perfect at first. The important thing is to just get it out there.
  2. Taking time to relax and enjoy lighter activities can help balance out harder work, making you more creative.
  3. When you feel confused or stuck, sometimes just getting on your bike and listening to music can clear your mind.

America Should Not Become a Nation of Tiger Moms

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1321 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Parenting Education Society Mental health Creativity
  1. Life is about more than just chasing a high salary or getting into a prestigious college. People need to enjoy their lives and find happiness in other ways.
  2. Overly strict parenting, like the 'Tiger Mom' approach, can lead to anxiety and depression in children. It's important to let kids have fun and make friends instead of just focusing on grades and achievements.
  3. A society that values creativity and risk-taking is important. Not everyone needs to be competitive; we need people doing everyday jobs too, like fixing cars or caring for others.

no, they don't hate you

Both Are True • 111 implied HN points • 10 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Mental health Relationships Self-reflection Personal Growth Creativity
  1. People often worry that others hate them, but they might actually be feeling the same insecurity. It's a common cycle of doubt.
  2. Instead of assuming someone dislikes you, it's better to recognize that they might be preoccupied with their own fears and feelings.
  3. Understanding that both sides might be feeling misunderstood can help break the cycle of negative thoughts and improve relationships.

Words words words

The Fry Corner • 9052 implied HN points • 12 Apr 24
📚 Literature Writing Books Creativity Inspiration Mythology
  1. Writing is often a slow process, with ideas developing over time, even when you're not actively writing. A lot of groundwork happens in your mind before the words hit the page.
  2. Sometimes, the inspiration for writing can feel mysterious and out of your control. It can be helpful to think of it as a collaboration with a muse or some creative force.
  3. Writers might find solutions to their problems by simply writing about them. Getting thoughts down on paper can help unlock new ideas and ways to move forward.

Power Is Shifting Rapidly to Indie Creators

The Honest Broker • 11037 implied HN points • 25 Nov 24
💼 Business Employment Entrepreneurship Creativity Economy Industry
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Solving Difficult Problems as a Filter

Bzogramming • 45 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
📖 Philosophy Problem Solving Complexity Constraints Creativity Human nature
  1. Asking good questions is key to solving problems. Starting with simple, unrelated questions helps narrow down possibilities and find better answers.
  2. Simplicity is usually better, but complexity can sneak in. Adding constraints to a problem can reduce options quickly, so it's important to manage them wisely.
  3. Being too picky when looking for solutions or people can backfire. Sometimes it’s better to adapt and make things work with what's available, instead of searching for the perfect fit.

Drawing Eno

Austin Kleon • 1778 implied HN points • 23 Jul 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Visual art Film Creativity Generative Art Documentary
  1. The documentary about Brian Eno is exciting and unique because it creates a different version every time it's shown. This encourages viewers to watch it in theaters for a fresh experience.
  2. It uses a special system called Brain One to generate the film. This system combines new interviews and personal clips from Eno’s archive, making each showing feel like a new story.
  3. The movie has interesting marketing advantages. Since every version is different, it gives people a reason to see it on the big screen instead of waiting for it to stream.

A Different Way To Think About Ideas on the Internet

Culture Study • 1615 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Media Studies Fan culture Creativity
  1. Fan fiction is often misunderstood but is a significant part of modern culture, reflecting deeper themes of sexuality, identity, and societal norms. It provides a way for people to explore these ideas in creative ways.
  2. Data analysis of fan fiction can reveal interesting trends, such as why certain characters or relationships are more popular. This helps audiences see the connections between fan fiction and broader cultural discussions.
  3. The process of creating visual essays on topics like fan fiction involves collaboration and creative problem-solving. It's about making complex subjects engaging and accessible, encouraging more people to think about cultural issues differently.

Head, heart, hands

Austin Kleon • 2537 implied HN points • 02 Jul 24
🎭️ Culture Art Community Health Education Creativity
  1. Our work should connect with our mind, heart, and hands. This balance helps us find fulfillment in what we do.
  2. The original idea of head, heart, and hands is powerful and reminds us of simplicity in our commitments.
  3. Health is seen as a result of taking care of our head, heart, and hands, emphasizing the importance of holistic well-being.

Title matters

Austin Kleon • 2038 implied HN points • 09 Jul 24
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Creativity Inspiration Writing
  1. Titles are important for any piece of work. They can set the tone and attract interest.
  2. Using randomness can spark creativity in titling. Techniques like flipping through books or pulling titles from a drawer can yield great ideas.
  3. Keeping a running list of potential titles helps you have options ready when you need to name something.

Dangerous! This Is the Reason Most Writers Quit (Before They Can Be Successful)

Kristina God's Online Writing Club • 1558 implied HN points • 16 Jul 24
📚 Literature Writing Mindset Self-help Publishing Creativity
  1. Writers often struggle due to negative mindsets that hold them back. It's important to change how you think before seeking more skills or knowledge.
  2. Taking risks can lead to significant growth. Stepping out of comfort zones can help overcome insecurities and open new opportunities.
  3. Most writers give up when they face challenges, thinking their work is not good enough. It's crucial to push through these feelings to achieve success.

Atrophy of the Writing Muscle

Atlas of Wonders and Monsters • 593 implied HN points • 11 Jan 25
📚 Literature Writing Creativity Publishing Writer's block Personal Development
  1. Taking a break from writing can feel refreshing and necessary, even for dedicated writers. It's okay to step back and focus on other things for a while.
  2. Writers can experience burnout, which can make it harder to get back into writing. It's important to recover and find a sustainable way to write again.
  3. Creativity may ebb and flow, and it's common for artists to pause after completing big projects. Slow and steady practice can help rebuild writing skills.

Sticking with it

Austin Kleon • 2617 implied HN points • 04 Jun 24
📚 Literature Writing Creativity Artistry Motivation Passion
  1. You need to really love your idea when creating something. It has to come from a personal place and excite you deeply, because it will take a lot of time and effort to bring it to life.
  2. While you can brush off mean critics, sometimes it's the well-meaning people that can hurt your project the most. Their opinions matter to you, so be careful how much you let them influence your passion.
  3. If your project becomes successful, you'll be talking about it for many years. So, it's important to choose something you truly enjoy and can stay excited about for a long time.