The hottest Art Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Science Topics

Some kinds of monsters

Austin Kleon • 5115 implied HN points • 17 May 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Taking breaks from technology can be refreshing and help us focus on enjoyable activities like listening to music or reading. Simple changes can lead to significant positive effects in our daily lives.
  2. Finding humor in creative struggles can lighten the load of anxiety and procrastination. Embracing these feelings is part of the writer's journey.
  3. Looking back on influential figures and their work reminds us of their impact on creativity. Cherishing their contributions helps inspire our own artistic endeavors.

James Baldwin Was Not Your Figurehead

Freddie deBoer • 10488 implied HN points • 15 Aug 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. James Baldwin resisted being tied to any specific political movement. He believed that labeling him simplified his complex thoughts and experiences.
  2. Baldwin's work focused on individuality and moral understanding instead of strict identity politics. He felt categories like race and sexual orientation should not define who someone is.
  3. He argued that real freedom comes from individuals taking action for themselves, rather than conforming to ideologies or identities created by others.

Hamnet, the movie

The Common Reader • 2303 implied HN points • 10 Dec 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. The movie adaptation of 'Hamnet' captures the emotion of the original novel, despite some flaws in dialogue.
  2. The performances, especially from the actors playing Agnes and Hamnet, are standout highlights of the film.
  3. The film offers a beautiful visual experience with its depiction of the countryside and familiar themes from Shakespeare's works.

Drop #18. Looking for Fireflies in Times of Fascism

REINCANTAMENTO Drops • 59 implied HN points • 21 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Re-enchantment is about reconnecting with the world beyond just science and technology. It emphasizes the importance of myths and spirituality in giving life meaning.
  2. Marginalized groups often hold valuable knowledge that was lost over time, such as practices from witches or diverse cultures. This loss is linked to historical violence and control by dominant powers.
  3. To find hope in difficult times, we should embrace creativity and imagination. By viewing the world differently, we can envision new possibilities and a re-enchanted future.

Beauty Is Stone Cold in the Arts, but Hot as a Consumer Product

The Honest Broker • 17288 implied HN points • 01 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Beauty is now seen as something you can buy, rather than something deeper found in art and nature. People care more about products than artistic expression when it comes to beauty.
  2. Artists often dismiss beauty, thinking it’s just about being pretty or sentimental. They struggle to connect with the real power of beauty, which should evoke strong feelings in the audience.
  3. Despite all this, people still crave beauty and are willing to spend a lot of money on it, showing that there is a strong desire for authentic beauty in our lives.
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Head, heart, hands

Austin Kleon • 2537 implied HN points • 02 Jul 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  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.

In 2025, blogs will be the last bastion of the Good Internet

The Intrinsic Perspective • 34996 implied HN points • 02 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Blogs are becoming one of the last good places on the internet. People are tired of social media and want more meaningful content.
  2. Writing blogs today is about sharing a lot of ideas often, rather than creating one perfect piece. It's about being expressive and engaging regularly.
  3. In 2025, bloggers should aim to create rich, detailed content that takes time to explore, much like appreciating a large, complex artwork.

I Answer 18 Questions

The Honest Broker • 12600 implied HN points • 14 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Listening and learning are more important than talking about yourself. You can gain valuable insights from others by being open and receptive in conversations.
  2. Continuous learning is essential. Reading widely and learning from your experiences can lead to personal growth and deeper understanding.
  3. Embrace your unique path and avoid being boxed into a single role. Exploring different interests can lead to a more fulfilling and interesting life.

Is There a Crisis of Seriousness?

The Honest Broker • 43884 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Seriousness in society is fading, with many things now focused on being entertaining rather than meaningful. This shift makes it hard for people to expect anything authentic.
  2. The rise of technology has made it easier to create fake experiences, from movies to online interactions. Many people struggle with knowing what is real anymore.
  3. There is a growing desire for more genuine, serious engagement in life. People are starting to reject the fake and are seeking deeper connections and authenticity.

The Maverick Animator of Chaos

Animation Obsessive • 12737 implied HN points • 07 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Shinya Ohira is known for his unique and powerful animation style that brings energy to scenes. His work often combines detailed analog drawing with a chaotic sense of motion, making it stand out in various projects.
  2. The anime industry is evolving into a global collaboration, allowing for more creative freedom. American companies are now partnering with Japanese artists, leading to fresh storytelling and animation styles.
  3. Ohira is not just an animator but also a mentor for younger talent. He enjoys working with new animators and is passionate about helping them grow, showing the importance of nurturing the next generation in animation.

Revenge of the Blockheads

Experimental History • 12493 implied HN points • 08 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. People can make surprising discoveries that have been overlooked for a long time, like a new way to play Tetris that was found years after it was created.
  2. There are games that simulate boring tasks, and some people find them relaxing instead of bad for the brain.
  3. Scientific publishing is changing, with new free resources becoming available online, making it easier for anyone to learn and participate.

Title matters

Austin Kleon • 2038 implied HN points • 09 Jul 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  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.

Like a snail on a cactus

Austin Kleon • 5755 implied HN points • 26 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Understanding perfectionism can help you recognize it in yourself and find solutions to overcome it.
  2. Reading different kinds of books can expose you to various styles, which might inspire you to explore more related works.
  3. Creative work often comes from what seems like wasted time or materials, highlighting that there’s value in every experience.

Immutable Happiness

In Bed With Social • 217 implied HN points • 06 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Happiness can come from moments that focus on the present, creating peace without past or future worries. Simple, meaningful experiences make us feel whole.
  2. True luxury may lie in experiences that technology cannot capture, like personal interactions that create lasting memories. These moments feel more real and connected.
  3. There is a beauty in creating things that only exist in the moment and cannot be easily photographed or recorded, reminding us of the value of being truly present.

Top reads of the week

gender:hacked by Eliza Mondegreen • 238 implied HN points • 05 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. There are top reads each week that can keep you informed and entertained. It's a great way to discover new content that interests you.
  2. You can subscribe to get a free trial and access more in-depth posts. This is a good option if you want to explore more topics.
  3. The featured artwork, like 'Houses by the Sea', adds a visual appeal to the reading experience. Art can enhance our understanding of different subjects.

'Life Is Too Short to Make Remakes'

Animation Obsessive • 13813 implied HN points • 10 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  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.

Your Review: Islamic Geometric Patterns In The Metropolitan Museum Of Art

Astral Codex Ten • 11494 implied HN points • 18 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Islamic geometric patterns are unique and have specific rules that make them stand out. These rules help ensure that the designs appear continuous and harmonious, preventing them from looking random or poorly made.
  2. The process of creating these patterns involves understanding and applying geometry, symmetry, and the right techniques. Artists often go through trial and error, refining their methods to create appealing designs.
  3. In museums, like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the display of art can blend the authentic with the recreated, creating an experience that might feel less genuine. It's essential to recognize the craftsmanship and history behind the art, even if some pieces show imperfections.

The Parable of Anna Akhmatova

The Honest Broker • 30154 implied HN points • 04 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. The power of art can overcome even the strongest dictators. Artists like Anna Akhmatova show that creativity can stand firm against oppression.
  2. Success in today's world is often measured by money and popularity, but true creative expression is about more than just those metrics.
  3. Even when artists face harsh censorship, their work can survive and resonate over time, leading to eventual recognition and respect.

Hidden Open Thread 420.5

Astral Codex Ten • 481 implied HN points • 12 Feb 26
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. This is a paid, subscriber-only post that requires signing in or subscribing to read.
  2. The entry is titled "Hidden Open Thread 420.5" and was posted on Feb 12, 2026, indicating an open-thread-style update on that date.
  3. The page shows navigation and sharing options and includes links to subscribe or sign in, highlighting access control and ways for readers to engage.

So is Everybody Giving Up On, Like... Doing Things?

Freddie deBoer • 12314 implied HN points • 25 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Many people are relying too much on technology, like AI, to do their creative work instead of enjoying the process themselves. It's important to find joy in what you do.
  2. There's a culture that values quick and easy ways to make money, like side hustles, instead of appreciating hard work and effort. Real hustling is about putting in the effort to achieve something.
  3. Some people seem confused about the true meaning of 'hustle.' They might think 'hustling' is just about finding shortcuts, but it's really about working hard and being dedicated.

How to Achieve Immortality

The Honest Broker • 24901 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. In the past, people achieved immortality through great deeds that served others, but today, many seek it through extreme measures like blood transfusions and body freezing. This shift shows a focus on self rather than community.
  2. Art can offer a different type of immortality than technology can. Famous works can keep someone's memory alive far longer than any tech billionaire can, even if they chase superficial forms of eternal youth.
  3. The modern obsession with quick fame through social media contrasts with the lasting impact of art and good deeds. While many focus on fleeting popularity, true legacy comes from cultural contributions that endure over time.

An Age of Chimeras

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 725 implied HN points • 18 Jan 26
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. A new Gen Z aesthetic, often called "brainrot," is becoming the dominant cultural sensibility and is likely to branch into both high and low forms that shape museums, fashion, and the arts.
  2. Image- and text-generating AIs are turbocharging young creators, letting intense, viral tastes spread fast and revealing rough outlines of future cultural directions.
  3. A broad cultural, technological, and geopolitical reset makes a return to the old status quo unlikely, so institutions are starting to adapt by betting on the creativity of the youngest adult generation.

Basic pleasantries

Austin Kleon • 7613 implied HN points • 15 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. A total solar eclipse will happen soon, and many events are planned. It's great to watch these events in everyday settings, like your backyard.
  2. Being playful as you grow older can make life more enjoyable. Staying curious and lighthearted is a good approach to aging.
  3. Politeness can go a long way; simple gestures like saying 'Hello' or 'Thank you' can really brighten someone's day. Treating others with respect is important.

Reclaiming Our Senses in a Digital World

In Bed With Social • 59 implied HN points • 19 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. We often focus too much on sight and sound in our digital lives, forgetting the other senses like touch, smell, and taste. It's important to reconnect with these senses to enjoy life more fully.
  2. Digital tools can help us pay attention to the world around us in new ways, like listening to global radio stations or exploring colors differently. This can enhance our understanding and connection to our environment.
  3. By engaging with objects and experiences that require physical interaction, we can create meaningful connections with the world. This shift from high-tech to high-touch helps us feel more grounded and aware of our surroundings.

Out of the Wilderness

The Convivial Society • 2481 implied HN points • 25 Nov 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Everyone has their ups and downs when it comes to thinking and writing. It's normal to feel lost or in a 'wilderness' sometimes.
  2. Artificial intelligence is a big topic right now, and it affects how we feel and interact with each other. It's important to explore its impact on our happiness.
  3. There's a deep need to express what it means to be human, especially in today's tech-driven world. Art and honest conversations can help us connect on this level.

Figure it out

Austin Kleon • 4556 implied HN points • 03 May 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Reading is valuable! Check out books that focus on writing good sentences; they can help improve your own writing.
  2. Exploring how artists work can inspire creativity. Look into features and documentaries about artists at different stages of their careers.
  3. Listening to music and podcasts about music can open your mind to new genres and artists. It’s a great way to relax and discover something new.

Writing on the wall of heaven

Patti Smith • 10554 implied HN points • 24 Jan 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Art
  1. The author reflects on the joy of learning penmanship and practicing handwriting with dipping pens and ink in school.
  2. The author's dream was to write like the authors of the Declaration of Independence and copied it line by line at different points in their life.
  3. The post celebrates National Handwriting Day and mentions a meditation on the importance and beauty of handwriting.

Diamonds and dictionaries

Austin Kleon • 5095 implied HN points • 19 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Life is short, so choosing to live playfully can enhance your experience. A new documentary about Hans Zimmer shows how creativity and playfulness can lead to interesting discoveries.
  2. The Criterion Channel now offers a continuous stream of films, so you can watch without deciding what to choose. It's a great way to enjoy movies while working or relaxing.
  3. Women artists often create their work in small moments throughout the day. This highlights the importance of finding time for creativity in our busy lives.

The Progress Monster

the shimmering void • 46 implied HN points • 08 Mar 26
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Measurable output isn’t the same as real creative progress — finishing tasks or shipping prototypes can feel like forward motion, but true growth often can’t be tracked on a dashboard.
  2. Deep work comes from folding your life into what you make — returning to and changing ideas as you change builds density and meaning, while purely procedural practice stays shallow.
  3. You can’t predict the future, so chasing constant proof of progress breeds anxiety; accepting uncertainty and staying open to surprise lets you grow without prototyping every idea.

Could the Next Netflix or Spotify Be an Artists-Owned Cooperative?

The Honest Broker • 8843 implied HN points • 20 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Artists might start owning their own platforms like Netflix and Spotify. This could give them more power and opportunities in their careers.
  2. Young people today are drinking less alcohol compared to older generations. This shift might reflect changing social norms and preferences for activities like coffee over alcohol.
  3. There are new and surprising developments in music, like the creation of a super thin violin. It's amazing how technology continues to change the music world!

"You Have to Get People's Attention in the First Two Seconds"

The Honest Broker • 7746 implied HN points • 04 Aug 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Musicians are feeling pressure to create shorter songs because of social media algorithms pushing for quick attention. This trend is changing how music is made and what is popular.
  2. Some artists are starting to fight back against these trends, showing that longer songs can still gain popularity even after years of shorter hits dominating the charts.
  3. Many staff members at the New York Times are concerned about cuts to culture coverage and a shift towards video content, indicating a broader worry about the future of music and art criticism.

Wrapping Up Half a Year

Animation Obsessive • 8880 implied HN points • 11 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. The animation industry is facing tough times, with many artists struggling due to job shortages and business challenges.
  2. The newsletter has been highlighting valuable stories from the animation world, sharing insights and celebrating the work of dedicated artists.
  3. Despite challenges, the newsletter has gained popularity this year, showcasing diverse topics and engaging content that resonates with its growing audience.

"We are sensitive machines"

Five’s Substack • 3197 implied HN points • 23 May 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Most people only have about 5 good hours a day to focus and be productive, and this can vary a lot. It's important to recognize that sometimes it might feel like you have even less time to think clearly.
  2. To make the most of those good hours, you need to protect your time and avoid distractions. It takes discipline to choose better activities and stick to them.
  3. Having a set time dedicated to reading and writing can help create a space for creativity and deeper thought. It's about creating a routine that allows you to fully engage with your ideas.

Seventies Afrofunk and the Future

Animation Obsessive • 9238 implied HN points • 04 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. The movie 'Crocodile Dance' explores the life of Roukia, a mother and musician dealing with a generational curse, and it combines traditional Nigerian stories with modern elements.
  2. The film's music is a mix of 1970s Afrofunk and contemporary Nigerian sounds, aiming to connect different generations and cultures.
  3. Directors Shofela Coker and Nadia Darries focus on the character's personal journey and power, wanting audiences to see themselves in Roukia's story while showcasing African women's experiences.

Into the Golden Era of Chinese Animation

Animation Obsessive • 1704 implied HN points • 05 Dec 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. The exhibition 'Animating China' highlighted the rich history of Chinese animation, particularly from the Shanghai Animation Film Studio. It showed how these animations have impacted viewers across generations.
  2. Visitors at the exhibition enjoyed a mix of nostalgia and appreciation for older animations, like 'Nezha Conquers the Dragon King', which many felt had more 'soul' than modern styles.
  3. The event served as a reminder of animation's role in shaping cultural identity and personal memories, making connections between past and present for families who attended.

Tell Us What You're Doing

The Honest Broker • 9940 implied HN points • 26 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  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.

The Nine Best Movies on the Creative Life

The Honest Broker • 8743 implied HN points • 10 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Movies can give us deep insights into the creative process and life of artists. They show us the struggles and breakthroughs that come with creating art.
  2. Films about writers, like 'The End of the Tour,' highlight the real challenges behind public perceptions of success. They remind us that success doesn’t always equal happiness.
  3. Authenticity in storytelling, as seen in movies like 'American Splendor,' connects with audiences because it shows the true, often messy, nature of life and creativity.

When you hear it

Austin Kleon • 5115 implied HN points • 05 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Experiences like a solar eclipse can be felt with your whole body, not just seen. Sounds from nature during such events can be unique and delightful.
  2. Creating a mixtape or playlist can be a fun way to share music inspired by special events like an eclipse.
  3. Rejecting ideas can hurt your creativity. It's important to explore your own thoughts and not just follow what others want.

Back to the beginning

Austin Kleon • 5735 implied HN points • 22 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Reading children's books can help adults reconnect with their imagination and sense of wonder. It's like taking a break and remembering how big the world feels when you're a kid.
  2. Making and sharing mixtapes is a fun way to bond with others. It's all about connecting through music and sending songs you love to each other.
  3. Talking about books and stories you love is important. Sharing what resonates with you can inspire others and create a great discussion.

The Empire Has Accidentally Caused The Rebirth Of Real Counterculture In The West

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 8782 implied HN points • 04 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. There's a new real counterculture forming in the West, especially seen at events like the Glastonbury Festival. Artists and fans are openly supporting movements like Palestine and really standing up to the establishment.
  2. For a long time, people in pop culture have acted rebellious but didn't challenge real power. Now, artists are risking censure and backlash from the government because they are speaking out about important social issues.
  3. Young people today feel frustrated and disillusioned, which is driving them to express their defiance. With social media, they see injustices firsthand, making it easier for them to rally together for impactful change.