The hottest Art Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Science Topics

15 things I consumed this week

Maybe Baby • 641 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Tilda Swinton's interview is really engaging and could go on forever. It's a great mix of interesting thoughts and conversation.
  2. Enjoying simple pleasures like whisky sours and fries can really make for a cozy experience. It’s nice to treat yourself to little things in a comforting setting.
  3. It's great to move past feeling unwell and find joy in sharing experiences again. Returning to favorite activities can be refreshing.

Word salad, with nettle leaves and rakes

The Lifeboat • 217 implied HN points • 05 Jul 25
📚 Literature Art
  1. Mistakes are an important part of learning. People often prefer to learn from their own experiences rather than just hearing about others' mistakes.
  2. Nettles symbolize difficult experiences that sting but also help us feel alive. We tend to avoid pain, but sometimes it’s those challenges that lead to growth.
  3. Even in tough situations, like feeling lost in a desert, we can seek out what we need, like comfort and understanding, which can lead to calmness.

That Time of Year Again

The Commonplace • 529 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. The author has decided to only ask for support from readers once a year to avoid annoying them. This is meant to strike a balance between needing support and not bombarding people with requests.
  2. Despite a drop in paid subscribers because of infrequent posts, the author feels freer and continues to write for enjoyment rather than just for income. They've adjusted their subscription price to make it more accessible.
  3. The author believes in sticking to their artistic principles, even if it leads to less income. They value the community of long-term supporters and continue writing regardless of financial pressures.

Stop Making Sense

The Ruffian • 534 implied HN points • 01 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Art doesn’t always need to make sense. Sometimes, it's okay to enjoy things that feel profound even if we can't explain them.
  2. We often prefer mysteries over puzzles. While puzzles have clear answers, mysteries make us think deeply and keep us engaged.
  3. Current culture pushes for clear and simple art because of instant gratification. However, artists like David Lynch and Bob Dylan show us the beauty in ambiguity and complexity.

Brands And Their Beautiful Stories

Brain Worms • 235 implied HN points • 19 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. In 2023, the trend for movies shifted from 'Eat The Rich' satire to storytelling focused on brands and corporations.
  2. The genre 'Brands & Their Beautiful Stories' emerged, portraying companies like Nike and Mattel as protagonists.
  3. These movies glorify brands over human characters and often wrap pro-corporate themes in timely messages.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

Myth & Math

Seven Senses • 519 implied HN points • 01 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Astrology mixes art and science, with a long history that goes back thousands of years. It's been used for everything from planting crops to influencing our personalities.
  2. Many people today enjoy astrology for self-discovery, but its teachings can get simplified and lose depth. It's important to remember that each person's experience with astrology is unique.
  3. Astrology encourages us to think about free will and destiny. We can choose our paths while also being influenced by the cosmos around us.

Odds and Ends #50: The weird thing about London's New Year's Fireworks

Odds and Ends of History • 603 implied HN points • 04 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. London's New Year's fireworks have some unexpected political twists that make them more than just a fun spectacle.
  2. The British government needs a solid plan for dealing with Elon Musk's comments and actions that could affect public discourse.
  3. Generative AI is changing the way we think about video production, and its latest developments are surprisingly impressive.

#138 The power of patterns

Design Lobster • 419 implied HN points • 04 Sep 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Art
  1. Toilet paper embossed with patterns is not just for aesthetics; it increases surface area for better grip and functionality.
  2. Patterns in design can convey stories and emotions without using words, adding depth and visual appeal.
  3. The right pattern can add value and uniqueness to a product, like the legal case involving a mathematician's copyrighted pattern on toilet paper.

How (and Why) to Avoid Death by Notification

Litverse • 239 implied HN points • 16 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Notifications are distractions that can lead to memory issues and reduced focus. It's essential to limit them to save time and mental energy.
  2. Our social media presence can drown out our real selves. It's vital to express thoughts without seeking validation to understand our true identity.
  3. Creating art and finding stillness are crucial for self-discovery. By disconnecting from devices, we can focus on meaningful activities and tap into our inspirations.

15 things I consumed this week

Maybe Baby • 563 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Sharing resources is important during tough times, especially for those affected by disasters. It's good to help each other find places that need support.
  2. Being aware of what's happening around us, like natural disasters, helps us stay connected as a community. Taking action, even small steps, can make a difference for those in need.
  3. Consuming different kinds of media can enrich our lives and keep us informed. It's fun and interesting to share what we've been reading, watching, or listening to.

Top Links 633 Van Gogh and the end of nature. How the UK kicked coal & China's approach to modernization

Chartbook • 515 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Van Gogh's artwork reflects a connection to nature and highlights the changes happening in the world around us. His pieces can show the beauty of nature, but also hint at its decline.
  2. The UK's transition away from coal energy showcases a significant shift towards more sustainable practices. This change is a crucial step in fighting climate change and preserving the environment.
  3. China's modernization is an interesting blend of tradition and innovation. It highlights how countries can evolve while balancing their historical roots with modern advancements.

High and Higher Thoughts

Splattern • 79 implied HN points • 17 May 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Experiencing new perspectives, especially through things like yoga or even drugs, can help us understand our own thoughts better. It's like seeing your own view from a different angle.
  2. Being present and emotionally connected can lead to surprising feelings, like joy from simple movements. It's important to allow ourselves to feel and express emotions.
  3. Women are achieving amazing things, often without the same level of recognition as men. It's vital to acknowledge their contributions and visibility in adventurous fields.

More thoughts on creative tension

Austin Kleon • 1199 implied HN points • 08 Nov 22
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Creative tension can help generate new ideas and push creativity forward. It's about balancing different opposing thoughts or feelings.
  2. Negative capability means being okay with uncertainty and holding two opposing views at the same time. This can help people think more deeply and creatively.
  3. The unity of opposites is an ancient idea that suggests conflicting concepts can work together. Embracing this can lead to a richer understanding of creativity.

The Wit’s Guide to Jealousy

Get Wit Quick • 196 implied HN points • 08 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Jealousy is about fearing the loss of what you have, not just wanting what you don't.
  2. Details fuel jealousy, as they sharpen the knives of envy.
  3. Jealousy can make us amateur novelists, crafting stories about others' lives.

Hidden Open Thread 384.5

Astral Codex Ten • 275 implied HN points • 05 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. This is a post meant for paid subscribers only. It includes content that isn't accessible to everyone.
  2. The post features an open thread, allowing subscribers to engage in discussion and share their thoughts.
  3. There are visual elements like images, which may be part of the discussion or simply to enhance the post's appeal.

Going wherever it leads

Austin Kleon • 1398 implied HN points • 02 Sep 22
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Redacted documents are becoming a major topic in the news, which led to some funny comments about blackout poetry. The creator finds humor in how this art form connects to current events.
  2. Reading tough books can be a real challenge. Sometimes, you find a book that hooks you, but also drives you a bit crazy, making you wish it was shorter.
  3. Interesting documentaries and profiles about musicians can offer new insights and perspectives. Watching these can be a great way to appreciate the history and creativity behind the music we love.

Du Fu and Li Bai critique modern media

Wyclif's Dust • 536 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Modern media offers a wide range of content that can be just as good as classic art. Today’s shows and movies have a depth that critics often overlook.
  2. The technology we have now helps artists reach more people and improve their work. Better sound and video mean more exciting performances.
  3. Mass media also helps educate audiences about what good art looks like. As things get personalized, there are more chances for niche, artistic works to thrive.

And the Mominees Are...

Momspreading • 216 implied HN points • 23 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. 2023 was highlighted as the year of movie moms with fascinating portrayals in films.
  2. Different movies showcased diverse and complex mother characters, ranging from divisive to delightful to horrifying.
  3. Variety of emotions and elements like guilt, forgiveness, and growth were depicted in the films, providing a unique perspective on motherhood.

can everyone please just shut the fuck up for a few minutes

Both Are True • 248 implied HN points • 09 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. There is too much noise and content in the world right now. It might be good for everyone to take a break and just quiet down for a bit.
  2. People often feel pressure to keep up or perform well with their work, especially online. It's exhausting to always be judged by numbers and reactions.
  3. Creativity should be about real expression, not just catering to what will get likes and shares. It's important to focus on speaking your truth instead.

Starting from scraps

Austin Kleon • 1238 implied HN points • 14 Oct 22
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Starting from limited resources can inspire creativity and lead to new ideas.
  2. The beauty of life is often found in our day-to-day experiences and connections, not just in grand adventures.
  3. Art and copyright law can clash, raising important questions about creativity and ownership.

In Search of Artistic Integrity

if not, Paris • 393 implied HN points • 27 Feb 23
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Authentic art should not be defined by market value, but by its ability to connect with and inspire individuals
  2. The pressure for artists to focus on self-promotion and follower counts can lead to alienation from the true essence of their work
  3. Choosing anonymity as an artist can be a powerful statement against the expectations of mass popularity and societal norms

Curator

Castalia • 439 implied HN points • 30 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. American theater is struggling because it relies too much on the Broadway model, which doesn't connect with local communities. The solution may be to create smaller, more personal theater experiences that focus on direct connection between actors and audiences.
  2. The idea of the avant-garde in art is losing its meaning as artists grapple with historical context and the pressures of a changing society. It’s important to create art that speaks to personal experiences rather than just following trends or societal expectations.
  3. Music is being flooded with AI-generated content, making it harder for human artists to stand out. Even though AI can produce a lot of music quickly, the value of true art comes from human experience and creativity, which cannot be easily replicated.

Thinking Under Fascism

Dada Drummer Almanach • 505 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Thinking creatively during tough times can help us hold onto our reality. It's important to find a personal truth even when the world feels distorted.
  2. Art can be a powerful tool against oppressive forces, as shown by Chaplin's famous speech in 'The Great Dictator.' Speaking out against injustice can attract both support and backlash.
  3. History shows us that silencing voices of opposition is a strategy used by fascists. We must stay connected and support one another to resist these challenges in the present.

Fame’s inflection point

quite useless • 393 implied HN points • 19 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. The summer of 'the riddle of the artist' explores the relationship between art and the biographies of artists.
  2. Artists' biographies often follow archetypal narratives like rags to riches and autodidacism.
  3. Passing fame's inflection point means the value of an artist's work derives more from who they are than what they create.

Writing Life at Home

Non-Boring History • 393 implied HN points • 30 May 23
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Elizabeth Gaskell, a prominent Victorian author, was a significant female literary figure of her time and her home is now a museum open to the public.
  2. Elizabeth Gaskell's house in Manchester showcased how she and her family lived, revealing her lifestyle and her significant contributions to literature.
  3. Mrs. Gaskell's home maintained a welcoming atmosphere for visitors, with volunteers offering insights into her life, and the museum allowing interaction with Victorian-style items.

The Wit's Guide to Euphemism

Get Wit Quick • 393 implied HN points • 30 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Euphemisms were traditionally used for sensitive topics like sex and death
  2. Euphemisms are often used in real estate listings to mask negative attributes
  3. Euphemisms can be seen as a way to soften harsh truths or navigate social situations

On Sinead O'Connor and Borderline Personality Disorder

Disaffected Newsletter • 499 implied HN points • 08 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Sinead O'Connor's life and struggles highlight the challenges of living with Borderline Personality Disorder. It's important to understand the emotional ups and downs that come with this condition.
  2. Mental health issues can affect anyone, regardless of their success or fame. Sinead's story reminds us to be compassionate towards others who are suffering.
  3. Discussing and raising awareness about mental health is crucial. It helps to break the stigma and encourages people to seek help when they need it.

☞ Musical Perception in Fiction

Cabinet of Wonders • 208 implied HN points • 07 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Diegetic music is when characters in a story hear the music, making it part of their world. It's different from background music that only the audience hears.
  2. Musicals can mess with this concept, as sometimes characters are aware they are singing, while other times they are not. This adds a fun layer to storytelling.
  3. Diegetic music can break the fourth wall, connecting characters with the audience in a unique way. It creates an engaging experience by blending different perspectives.

Off to see the wizard

Austin Kleon • 1318 implied HN points • 13 Sep 22
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Re-watching movies like The Wizard of Oz can bring out strong emotions and memories we didn't realize we had. The experience can help us connect with our past selves.
  2. The idea of 'there's no place like home' in the movie feels unrealistic for many, as it contrasts with the exciting world of Oz. This highlights the tension between wanting to leave and the comfort of staying.
  3. Movies can teach us about self-authorization. The realization that we are the ones who give ourselves permission to pursue our dreams can be a powerful lesson.

kitten corner: escape

bad cattitude • 160 implied HN points • 04 Aug 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. A cat is poking fun at modern culture and people's complaints. It shows how humor can highlight serious topics.
  2. The author challenges the cat to sum up cultural grievances in a video, suggesting it might just be an impossible task.
  3. It's a playful way of engaging with deep issues while still keeping it light and fun.

Transcribe yourself!

Austin Kleon • 1578 implied HN points • 24 Jun 22
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. If you're stuck on writing, try talking it out and recording yourself. It can help free up your thoughts.
  2. Reading various books can be enlightening. Don't be afraid to share the ones you picked up and even put down.
  3. Traveling can be more enjoyable if you explore local spots like libraries or grocery stores. It helps you connect with the culture better.

One! Hundred! Thousand!

Austin Kleon • 1858 implied HN points • 08 Apr 22
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. It's important to create a newsletter that you enjoy and would want to read yourself. Having a clear format helps keep things organized.
  2. Libraries can thrive without late fees or staff, as people often return items when given the chance. It's great to see how this positively impacts communities.
  3. April is a month to celebrate poetry and autism awareness. There are fun ways to engage with both, like sharing poems or learning more about autism through recommended readings.

The Heart of Christmas

The Commonplace • 544 implied HN points • 25 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Christmas is more than decorations and gifts; it's about a deeper feeling of gratitude and love.
  2. Songs and celebrations are fun, but they don't capture the true essence of Christmas.
  3. The magic of Christmas lies in quiet moments of hope and connection, especially in the spirit of the holy child's promise.

Possible verdicts

Austin Kleon • 1358 implied HN points • 23 Aug 22
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. It's important to separate our feelings about beauty and personal taste when it comes to art. Just because we don't like something doesn't mean it's not beautiful.
  2. Adults can develop a deeper understanding of art by recognizing multiple ways to respond to it, beyond just liking or disliking.
  3. Being able to appreciate something as good, even if we don't like it right away, shows growth in our taste and judgment.

Maybe women should design our sci-fi future

The Novelleist • 1411 implied HN points • 13 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Reimagining the design of our technological future with more feminine perspectives can lead to more visually appealing, sustainable, and community-oriented innovations.
  2. Women-led tech companies often prioritize healthcare, environmental conservation, and community well-being over traditional futuristic themes like cars and spaceships.
  3. By encouraging more women sci-fi writers to envision the future and women technologists to build it, we can create a more diverse, inclusive, and beautiful vision for our technological advancements.

15 things I consumed this week

Maybe Baby • 620 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Watching art critiques can change how we think about creative work. It challenges our views and might make us rethink what art really is.
  2. Trying new things each week helps keep our minds fresh and engaged. It's a good way to discover more about what we like and care about.
  3. Going to see a show, like 'Wicked', can be a fun way to experience storytelling. Live performances bring a unique energy that can be really enjoyable.

Dog days

Austin Kleon • 1498 implied HN points • 08 Jul 22
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Reading shorter books can be enjoyable and worthwhile, even if they don’t blow you away. It's nice to find pieces that balance serious topics with a light touch.
  2. Creative work often comes from balancing respect for the past with the desire to innovate. This tension can lead to interesting new ideas and artworks.
  3. Podcasts and shows can be great for light entertainment; for example, 'The Offer' is a fun mini-series worth checking out.

Scatterbrain: a letter from Knee-Jerk Land

The Leftovers • 159 implied HN points • 26 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. State-funded art in the UK is facing challenges due to expectations around political statements and reputational risks
  2. It's essential to be cautious of dependence on the state for art funding, as it can lead to limitations in artistic expression and self-defeatism
  3. The impact of AI on various cultural aspects is a growing concern, raising questions about the future of creativity and human innovation

RKUL: Time Well Spent, 07/14/2025

Razib Khan's Unsupervised Learning • 183 implied HN points • 15 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Your time is limited, and it's easy to waste it on your phone and the internet. Instead, consider using that time to read good books and learn something valuable.
  2. Reading offers you a chance to experience decades of knowledge and insights from various subjects. Books like 'From Dawn to Decadence' enrich your understanding of culture and creativity.
  3. Intellectual discussions can sometimes focus too much on power dynamics rather than the beauty and creativity of human thought. It's important to balance critiques with appreciation for the genius of human culture.