The hottest Art Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Science Topics

Links and Tingz (May '25)

Secretum Secretorum • 530 implied HN points • 29 May 25
📚 Literature Poetry History Art Music Philosophy
  1. Poetry often reflects deep feelings about life and existence. It can make us think more about our thoughts and emotions.
  2. The history of marginalized groups, like the Cagots, shows how society can exclude and discriminate. Understanding these stories helps us learn about empathy and acceptance.
  3. Time can feel powerful and transforming, blending our experiences. Thinking about time can change how we perceive ourselves and our surroundings.

The quiet place

Silentium • 639 implied HN points • 08 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Art Philosophy Literature Faith Wellness
  1. Silence can be a powerful tool for mental clarity. Taking time to be quiet can help us think better and feel more focused.
  2. Finding a 'quiet place' allows for personal reflection and relaxation. It's a chance to step away from the noise of everyday life.
  3. Creating silence in our lives can improve our overall well-being. It helps reduce stress and encourages a deeper connection with ourselves.

Poopity Scoopity: A Review of Kanye West’s Twitter Account

Default Wisdom • 177 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Art Music Mental health Social media Celebrity
  1. Kanye West is facing both artistic and mental health struggles. His recent works show a decline in creativity and direction, highlighting his challenges.
  2. His attempt to shift towards a Christian theme with his album 'Jesus is King' didn’t receive the recognition he hoped for. This may have affected his artistic journey and mental state.
  3. Kanye's social media presence has turned chaotic and negative, reflecting deeper issues. Many believe he needs help and support to navigate these tough times.

In 2025, Your Boss Will Launch a Podcast

The Honest Broker • 21776 implied HN points • 28 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Media Art Entertainment Trends Influence
  1. In 2025, many companies will start their own podcasts, using them to promote themselves like infomercials. So get ready for your boss to ask you to help with that.
  2. The way businesses connect with clients is changing; some are now using podcasts as a sneaky way to hold meetings. It seems to work because people are curious when asked to join a podcast.
  3. Media companies that once tried to compete with independent platforms like Substack are now copying their model. This shows a huge shift in how content is being delivered and consumed.

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

Both Are True • 248 implied HN points • 09 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Media Entertainment Social Commentary
  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.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

Why did clothing become boring?

Res Obscura • 5754 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Fashion History Art Society Expression
  1. Clothing became more boring because it shifted from being handmade and unique to mass-produced and cheap. This change made individual items less valuable and less personal.
  2. The Industrial Revolution played a big role in making clothes more affordable, allowing people to own many outfits but reducing the distinctiveness of each piece.
  3. As social norms changed and people gained more freedom, they found other ways to express themselves that didn't rely on clothing, leading to a simpler style in fashion.

Best of the year (so far)

Austin Kleon • 5755 implied HN points • 12 Jul 24
🎭️ Culture Books Music TV Movies Podcasts Art
  1. The author enjoyed various types of reading, from essays and books to magazines that make great bathroom reads.
  2. They found joy in both music and movies, highlighting favorites from old classics to new releases, showing a preference for a mix of styles.
  3. The author shared experiences with family activities like pizza night movies and fun gadgets that made everyday life more enjoyable.

The Culture Scene Is Total Madness

The Honest Broker • 13298 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Art Music Fashion Media Trends
  1. The culture scene is changing in odd ways, like Madonna trying stand-up comedy and a Van Gogh being sold for just $50 at a garage sale. It's making people question what is really important in art and entertainment.
  2. Vinyl record sales are confusing right now. Different reports say sales are either dropping significantly or growing, leaving many unsure about the future of the music industry.
  3. Some writers on Substack are starting to sell ads, which is surprising. This could change how independent authors make money and could lead to more big brands wanting to advertise in newsletters.

The Animation Trove That Keeps Growing

Animation Obsessive • 10494 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Animation Film Art History Media
  1. The Zagreb School of Animation has restored many classic cartoons from the 50s, 60s, and 70s, making them available in high quality on YouTube. These cartoons are unique for their adult themes and artistic styles, breaking away from traditional children's animation.
  2. The success of the animated film _Nezha 2_ has set new box office records in China, surpassing $1 billion in just ten days. Its unprecedented popularity showcases a growing trend in animated films capturing massive audiences and financial success.
  3. Animation production in places like Yugoslavia and China reflects a strong spirit of creativity and boundary-pushing, with artists working together and exploring unconventional ideas, even in challenging circumstances.

The teaching of mountains

Silentium • 699 implied HN points • 05 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Nature Philosophy Art Spirituality Literature
  1. Mountains can teach us the value of silence and reflection. Spending time in nature helps us connect with inner peace.
  2. Silence allows for deeper understanding and contemplation. It’s important to take breaks from the noise of daily life.
  3. Embracing nature's beauty can inspire personal growth. Mountains symbolize strength and resilience we can learn from.

One Gift Guide to Rule Them All

Culture Study • 5142 implied HN points • 01 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Fashion Community Traditions
  1. This year, there's a goal to help those in need by raising funds for beds, bikes, and other essentials for refugees. It's all about making a difference as a group.
  2. Buying gifts from small businesses can feel more meaningful than shopping at big stores during the holiday rush. It can help support local shops that rely on December sales.
  3. The focus of gift-giving should be on thoughtful purchases rather than just getting a bargain. It's better to find one special item that feels right than to buy a lot of stuff just because it's on sale.

Friendly And Hostile Analogies For Taste

Astral Codex Ten • 19615 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Art Taste Fashion Aesthetics Criticism
  1. Taste in art can feel very subjective, with many believing that what they like is good while critics might argue otherwise. It's confusing when different groups don't agree on what is 'good' art.
  2. Just like there are fashion rules that people follow, there are also rules for taste that might seem arbitrary. Sometimes, these rules change quickly, and what's considered 'good' or 'bad' can shift over time.
  3. People often feel a strong reaction to art or style they dislike, similar to how some think bad grammar is wrong. This suggests that our sense of taste might be more about learned reactions than fixed truths.

When Bad People Make Good Art

The Honest Broker • 18551 implied HN points • 22 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Art Music Criticism Entertainment Media
  1. It's tough to enjoy art when you know the artist has done bad things. People often wonder if listening to music or watching movies means they support those bad actions.
  2. There's a lot of gray area in cancel culture. Sometimes it's hard to decide if we should stop enjoying a particular artist because of their past, and it can feel overwhelming to investigate all the claims.
  3. The impact of one artist on a larger group, like a band or a film crew, complicates the issue further. Should everyone be punished if one person does something wrong?

The Most Beautiful Swim You've Ever Taken

Culture Study • 1436 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art Music Literature Fashion Performance
  1. Natural disasters like fires can have a big impact on communities. It's important for people to come together and support those affected.
  2. Organizations like World Central Kitchen play a vital role in helping during crises. They provide food and support to people in need after disasters.
  3. Staying informed and being willing to help others can make a big difference in tough times. Communities can work together to support those who are struggling.

15 things I consumed this week

Maybe Baby • 589 implied HN points • 30 May 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Media Lifestyle Personal Growth
  1. The importance of sticking with things even when they seem slow or dull can lead to valuable insights. Don't rush through; take your time to absorb it all.
  2. Getting enough sleep is crucial for both physical and mental health. When sleep is lacking, life can feel tougher and more challenging.
  3. Reading essays and deep articles can help us connect with our emotions and experiences. They often reveal deeper truths about being human.

Kendrick Lamar: Talented Musician, Provocative Figure, Emperor of the Whites

Freddie deBoer • 10612 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Music Art Social Commentary Pop culture Identity politics
  1. Kendrick Lamar has achieved great success and is highly praised, but his status as an 'underdog' feels ironic given his fame and accolades. It shows how people love to label even the most successful artists as outsiders.
  2. The way people view music is changing; taste is now tied to moral values and public opinions. It's hard for individuals to just enjoy music without it being linked to their identity or politics.
  3. Many white people embrace Kendrick Lamar's art to appear morally good, which can overshadow the true appreciation of his talent. This dynamic is complex and reflects a broader issue in how we celebrate Black artists.

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.

Modern Magnificenza

Not Boring by Packy McCormick • 133 implied HN points • 10 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Art Architecture Philosophy History Society
  1. Our society is very focused on logical thinking, but we also need creativity and emotional understanding. It's important to balance both sides of our brains to have a fulfilling life.
  2. We are experiencing big shifts in power and wealth today, similar to what happened before the Renaissance. Wealthy individuals can lead to positive changes by funding beautiful, meaningful projects in their communities.
  3. Working on meaningful and beautiful projects can provide not just personal satisfaction but also benefit the community. This approach can help those feeling lost in today's fast-paced, tech-driven world.

Shopping as a "hobby"

Maybe Baby • 602 implied HN points • 28 May 25
🎭️ Culture Fashion Lifestyle Art Commerce Trends
  1. Shopping can be seen as a fun hobby for many people. It mixes creativity with the thrill of finding new items.
  2. There is a debate about shopping being a form of art or just a big money-making business. This makes people think about what fashion really means.
  3. The way we view shopping affects how we think about style and trends in our society. It's important to understand both sides of this conversation.

Ask Me Anything (2/2025)

Astral Codex Ten • 7433 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Psychology Society Communication Art Philosophy
  1. Subscribers can ask questions during the AMA, but only they can comment on the responses. It's a way to engage the paid supporters more directly.
  2. Some questions won't be answered, like those asking for medical advice or trying to get a controversial statement. It's about keeping it respectful and on topic.
  3. The host plans to keep up with questions until they feel like stopping, so there's a willingness to engage as long as it's productive.

SITREP (CONT.) 'WEEN/PORTLAND/FUNDRAISER/FRESH CONTENT

THREE SEVEN MAFIA • 599 implied HN points • 02 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Art Music Literature Traditions Community
  1. The fundraiser is almost complete, with just $200 needed to reach the goal. Donations can be made through Cash App, Venmo, or Zelle.
  2. The writer will be traveling to Portland on Halloween, so they won't be in Chicago to meet people. There will be a cemetery walk to honor the fallen on October 26.
  3. A friend is moving to Chicago and will collaborate on content, making the project more dynamic and exciting.

The way you wanted to feel

Austin Kleon • 5295 implied HN points • 28 Jun 24
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Music Film Parenting Philosophy
  1. Riding a bike can make you feel like a kid again, giving you a sense of joy you wanted when you were younger. It's important to give yourself those little joys in life.
  2. Think about what you loved doing as a child because it can help you discover your passions today. Reflecting on those moments can guide your hobbies and career choices.
  3. Creative work often connects with childhood memories. Embracing what made you happy as a kid can inspire you to be more creative and fulfilled now.

Time held me green and dying

Secretum Secretorum • 580 implied HN points • 21 May 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Art History Philosophy Memory
  1. Time changes everything, and it can make the past seem more beautiful than the present. We often remember past moments fondly, even if they weren't perfect.
  2. Memories can be clearer and more vibrant than reality. Sometimes, looking back helps us see the good things that were overshadowed at the time.
  3. We should appreciate the present more and not just rely on nostalgia to feel happy. Finding joy in today can help us avoid getting lost in the past.

Movie Recommendations: 3 Wordless Features

Soaring Twenties • 100 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Film Art Recommendations Cinema Media
  1. Recommending good movies is important because it helps people discover great films instead of just focusing on negative critiques. It shows that you care about what you love and want to share it with others.
  2. Wordless movies can tell powerful stories through visuals and music alone, making them relatable to everyone regardless of language. This opens up new ways for filmmakers to connect with audiences worldwide.
  3. The success of wordless films highlights the need for movies that are unique and confident, pushing filmmakers to create innovative content rather than just following trends.

Nadia Asparouhova on antimemetics, nuclear mysticism, and scrolling

The Generalist • 1320 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Philosophy Art Literature Technology Society
  1. Some ideas spread slowly or not at all, which is something we don't talk about enough. It's different now with social media, where people often keep their best thoughts private to avoid backlash.
  2. Building relationships through patronage could be more beneficial than just relying on crowdfunding. It creates deeper connections and helps sustain valuable relationships in our lives.
  3. Scrolling through social media makes us lose focus and can lead to a poorer state of mind. It's important to be aware of how this constant distraction affects us.

CUcommunity vs. the Intruder From Harvard

Default Wisdom • 29 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Fashion Music Art Literature Media
  1. Rehan's early years were shaped by the vibrant and experimental nature of the early Internet. It was a time full of new challenges and opportunities.
  2. Growing up in a mostly white community as a person of color brought unique experiences and perspectives for Rehan. These experiences influenced his understanding of identity and belonging.
  3. The story highlights the tension between local communities and outside influences, particularly from prestigious institutions like Harvard. This represents the ongoing struggle between tradition and modernity.

A quieter phone

Silentium • 199 implied HN points • 16 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Lifestyle Wellness Media Art Design
  1. A quieter phone can help bring more peace into your life. Reducing distractions allows you to focus better.
  2. Quiet wallpapers can serve as a gentle reminder to seek calmness. They can enhance your phone's look while promoting tranquility.
  3. Taking time for silence can lead to better mental health. Embracing quiet moments can help reduce stress and anxiety.

Links For December 2024

Astral Codex Ten • 13627 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Art Music Religion Philosophy Literature
  1. Steven Seagal has led a colorful life after Hollywood, converting to Buddhism, supporting Russia, and marrying multiple women. He's even been called the reincarnation of a famous saint.
  2. An outrageous fine of $20 trillion was imposed on Google by Russia for blocking certain YouTube channels. This amount is far more than the total worth of the world's economy!
  3. There's a belief that taller candidates tend to win U.S. elections. While some studies suggest a slight trend, it's not enough to say it's a reliable rule.

The 25 Best Online Articles of 2024

The Honest Broker • 13863 implied HN points • 26 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Writing Literature Art Media Journalism
  1. The list features 25 of the best longform articles from the past year. These articles cover a variety of topics, showing that good writing can be found in many different subjects.
  2. Supporting quality journalism is important. The writers highlighted in the list often rely on the support of their readers, so consider helping them as a new year's resolution.
  3. Many pieces explore unique personal stories and experiences. From a former Goldman Sachs trader to a psychic, these articles are interesting and reflect a wide range of human experiences.

The carousel keeps turning

Austin Kleon • 5495 implied HN points • 21 Jun 24
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Music Media Community
  1. The newsletter celebrates reaching 200,000 subscribers with a special offer of 20% off paid subscriptions. This helps support the free newsletter for everyone.
  2. There is a blend of personal reflections, like enjoying a vintage stamp carousel, and sharing creative projects and recommendations, such as books and music.
  3. Useful advice on research techniques includes maintaining a routine, taking notes, and exploring diverse perspectives to enrich creativity and learning.

Stop Making Sense

The Ruffian • 534 implied HN points • 01 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Art Music Literature Philosophy Film
  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.

Paid content: Playing the arborist

Wood From Eden • 336 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Fashion Food Travel
  1. Being an arborist involves caring for trees and understanding their growth. It's important to know how to maintain their health and beauty.
  2. There are different methods and tools used in arboriculture to safely manage trees. Learning these techniques can help prevent damage and promote growth.
  3. Working with trees requires both knowledge and respect for nature. Arborists play a big role in keeping our environment healthy and beautiful.

How To Love Classical Music

The Ruffian • 878 implied HN points • 22 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Music Art Education Tradition Performance
  1. Classical music has a rich history and can be a powerful emotional experience, especially when experienced live. Seeing many musicians come together to perform can make the music feel even more alive and impactful.
  2. Investing time and effort into understanding classical music can greatly enhance your appreciation of it. Unlike pop music, classical music may require more focus and patience to enjoy fully.
  3. You don't need to grow up with classical music to appreciate it, but having some exposure helps. Many people discover and love it later in life, and there are many resources available to help you get started.

sunday extra mean pool

bad cattitude • 108 implied HN points • 08 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Entertainment Society History
  1. The world can feel harsh and full of missed chances. It's important to recognize these feelings and acknowledge the challenges we face.
  2. Sometimes we need to take a step back and notice the things happening around us. This helps us stay aware of our experiences and struggles.
  3. Having a space to share these thoughts can be beneficial. Connecting with others helps us process what we feel together.

Going Out on Top

We're Gonna Get Those Bastards • 5 implied HN points • 14 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Comics Entertainment Media
  1. It's good to know when to quit before you overstay your welcome. Leaving on a high note can help preserve your legacy.
  2. Creative exhaustion is a real thing. Sometimes it's better to stop while you're ahead rather than risk producing lesser work.
  3. Having a plan for after you leave an industry is important. Staying just for the money can lead to dissatisfaction later in life.

A great new sci-fi novel for Iain M. Banks fans, a masterpiece French crime epic, and a great new jangly power-pop album

Read Max • 711 implied HN points • 19 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Books Music Film Literature Art
  1. There's a new sci-fi novel that fans of Iain M. Banks will likely enjoy. It's about space travel and alien intelligence.
  2. A thrilling French crime story set in prison is now available on Netflix. It’s a gripping watch if you like intense dramas.
  3. A fresh album inspired by bands like Hüsker Dü and Big Star has been released. It's catchy and worth a listen.

Curator

Castalia • 1758 implied HN points • 08 Aug 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Publishing Art Criticism Society
  1. Literary writing should introduce new ideas, provide honest experiences, or unleash creativity. Unfortunately, much of what's out there feels repetitive and lacks depth.
  2. There's a growing disconnect between writers and publishers, as publishers often prioritize profits over the integrity of literary work. This leads to a system that might not serve those truly passionate about literature.
  3. The publishing industry is shifting, and some men feel left out of the conversation. It's essential to remember that literature should be about artistic expression, not just political representation.

Hélène Finds Her Voice

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 414 implied HN points • 25 May 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Philosophy Technology Art Society
  1. The writer, Hélène, identifies as both human and supernatural, sharing a little about her life and mentioning the tension with her husband regarding her powers. It's a blend of reality and the mystical that makes her unique.
  2. There's a new book by JSR called _On Drugs_ that is getting positive reviews, and it seems to be creating a buzz as they start promoting it more widely. People are encouraged to pay attention to it and invite engagement.
  3. Hélène discusses the serious issue of how technology, like AI, can create barriers for certain groups, especially the elderly, highlighting it as a potential social problem that should be taken seriously rather than treated lightly.

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.