Science of Art

Science of Art, authored by Shagun Singh, explores the journeys and strategies of artists achieving financial independence through their craft. The newsletter provides insights on the importance of social media, networking, adaptability, diverse income models, and strategic visibility. It highlights individual stories of artists transcending traditional paths to success.

Career Development in Art Social Media and Digital Platforms Economic Models for Artists Networking and Mentorship Creative Strategies and Personal Branding Impact of Cultural and Societal Themes on Art

The hottest Substack posts of Science of Art

And their main takeaways

How to get your art into museums

418 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Exhibitions Cultural Diversity
  1. Museums acquire art through buying, donations, and exchanges. It's not just about buying; they also consider gifts and bequests.
  2. Artists should align their work with a museum's mission. If their art matches a museum's goals, their chances of being noticed increase a lot.
  3. Networking is key for artists. By participating in events and connecting with art communities, artists can improve their visibility and create opportunities for themselves.

Does your politics affect your art?

59 implied HN points • 11 Oct 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Modern Art Art history Cultural critique Art Techniques
  1. Artists can hold different political views and still create art that appeals to a wide audience. For example, Norman Rockwell had liberal beliefs but often illustrated conservative themes.
  2. The way an artist views uncertainty in the world can influence their art style. People comfortable with ambiguity may prefer abstract art, while those seeking certainty might lean towards realistic works.
  3. Art reflects both society and the inner feelings of the artist. Successful art aligns with the era's spirit and resonates with the public, regardless of the artist's political leanings.

The Power of Second Acts in an Artist’s Life

99 implied HN points • 03 Oct 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Creative Process Art history Cultural impact
  1. Second acts in an artist's life are opportunities for reinvention and growth. They often come after personal changes and challenge artists to evolve their work.
  2. Many artists find renewed success or new directions after facing hardships. Experiences like illness or life transitions can inspire powerful and transformative art.
  3. It's never too late for artists to achieve recognition. Some artists create their best work later in life, showing that creativity can flourish at any age.

What I learned from 200+ hours of researching highly successful artists

99 implied HN points • 03 Jan 24
  1. Instagram has become a vital platform for artists' visibility and success, allowing them to be discovered by collectors and audiences.
  2. Success in art is not just about creativity, but also about the diversity and reach of an artist's social connections.
  3. Persistence and adaptability are crucial for creative achievement and success, as shown by the experiences of successful artists.

Gdańsk to the Gagosian

59 implied HN points • 11 Jan 24
  1. Strategic networking and showcasing work can impact an artist's success.
  2. Embrace personal experiences and roots to develop a unique artistic style.
  3. Success in the art world is not just about institutional validation; artists can stand out by reflecting on their work and creating a lasting narrative.
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From Couch Surfing to Art and Business Stardom

59 implied HN points • 22 Nov 23
  1. Shantell Martin creatively creates her own opportunities in the art world.
  2. Consistency and a signature style make Shantell Martin's work recognizable and successful.
  3. Shantell Martin showcases diversification by exploring various creative projects and collaborations.

The economics of making art

59 implied HN points • 02 Oct 23
  1. Artists struggle to make a living solely from their art
  2. New economic models are needed to support artists financially
  3. Crowdfunding, online platforms, and support networks play key roles in artists' income

Launching an Art Career at 48 and Achieving Fame with Gucci Collaboration at 50

19 implied HN points • 25 Dec 23
  1. It's never too late to pursue your passion, like artist Helen Downie starting her art career at 48.
  2. Social media platforms like Instagram can play a significant role in showcasing and gaining traction for emerging artists.
  3. Establishing connections and patronage can be crucial for artists' success, as seen through Helen Downie's collaboration with Gucci and other opportunities.

Rising from Poverty and School Dropout to a Guggenheim Retrospective

19 implied HN points • 11 Dec 23
  1. Cattelan's success came from his hustle and unconventional strategies to gain attention in the art world.
  2. Creating art that shocks, awes, and evokes strong reactions can help in standing out and staying relevant.
  3. Crafting a unique persona and being charismatic can attract opportunities and help in building a personal brand.

Before you start painting, make sure you fix your teeth

19 implied HN points • 30 Nov 23
  1. Martinez's work critiques present-day technology and culture, making it relevant as a record of the times.
  2. Martinez's meme paintings leverage viral internet images to attract attention and followers.
  3. Success in the art world involves consistently showcasing work on relevant channels and aligning with influential partners.

An immigrant Artist's 10-Year Journey to becoming a Multi-Millionaire

19 implied HN points • 27 Oct 23
  1. Start early in your career by working, interning, and apprenticing to learn the ropes of your desired job. School alone isn't sufficient.
  2. School is valuable for developing critical thinking skills, tools for your work, and building a network of collaborators and mentors.
  3. Showcase your work to a friendly audience whenever and wherever possible.