The hottest Art Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Science Topics

Plugpost and Updates

Resident Contrarian • 781 implied HN points • 29 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Getting exposure as a new writer or for a new product is crucial for success.
  2. The internet often reacts negatively to self-promotion, so getting boosted by established figures or famous people can be key.
  3. It's important to be proactive in seeking opportunities and promoting your work, even in the face of challenges like internet backlash.

Hidden Open Thread 352.5

Astral Codex Ten • 206 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. This is an open thread for subscribers, meaning only paid members can participate. It's a space for sharing thoughts and discussions.
  2. The post includes links for sharing on social media, showing that it encourages interaction and connection.
  3. The thread is part of a series, indicating a continuing conversation or topic that interests the community.

Best of The Ruffian 2024

The Ruffian • 159 implied HN points • 28 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. The Ruffian gained more subscribers this year, growing from 20,000 to 33,000. This shows that more people are interested in the content.
  2. There were 74 posts and 3 podcast episodes published, with several popular topics, including lists and questions about happiness and culture.
  3. The podcast is set to continue into 2025, featuring conversations with notable guests, and exclusive content for paid subscribers will also be available.

French 1790s Disco, and Other Excesses

Atlas of Wonders and Monsters • 627 implied HN points • 20 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Cultural excesses, like the French 1790s Disco and Directoire fashion, represent brief bursts of extravagant creativity.
  2. These periods of excess, though short-lived, have a lasting impact on culture and fashion.
  3. While moderation is important, occasional indulgence in extravagance and eccentricity can bring vitality and richness to life and civilization.

This could be our future

The Novelleist • 141 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. The Elysian is a media collective that aims to create a better future through journalism and creative projects. They focus on positive solutions and new ideas.
  2. They produce things like magazines, podcasts, and books that explore innovative concepts, such as autonomous governments and capitalism.
  3. The collective is built on collaboration, allowing creators to share profits and resources for their projects, which can lead to bigger and better outcomes.
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Tokyo Story

Dada Drummer Almanach • 182 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. In Tokyo, the focus was on enjoying life and community rather than the stressful politics at home. It felt nice to step back from the chaos and think about what really matters.
  2. Building a supportive community and enjoying music with friends are key goals. These connections help to create a peaceful and happy environment.
  3. It's important not to get overwhelmed by negative news. Instead, we should focus on what we value and support one another through tough times.

Maggie’s Farm

Rethinking Software • 199 implied HN points • 09 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Bob Dylan's song 'Maggie's Farm' speaks about the struggle against unfair management. It really highlights how frustrating it can be to feel stuck in a job with bad management.
  2. The songwriter encourages people to view themselves as partners, not just workers. It's important to feel valued and not treated like a servant.
  3. The song warns against peer pressure at work. Just like in a group, it's essential to stay true to yourself, even when others try to pull you in the same direction.

We Are Vessels and History Flows Through Us

The Sunday Wisdom • 58 implied HN points • 21 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. No single individual can take full credit for major achievements; success is often the result of collaboration and contributions from many.
  2. We are all influenced by our circumstances and the help we receive from others; no one truly achieves success alone.
  3. Recognize and appreciate the often unseen and unrecognized contributions of individuals in bringing about significant events or creations.

Why Are All the Frogs Dying?

Off-Topic • 593 implied HN points • 07 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. The author is starting a new zine called (Off) Off-Topic.
  2. Zines are self-published works of minority interest.
  3. The zine will feature stories that don't fit into the usual content format.

matchmaking is open + what I've been reading

bookbear express • 137 implied HN points • 18 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. There's a matchmaking event happening soon, and it's a chance to meet new people. You can sign up for just $5, and they promise to refund if it doesn't work out for you.
  2. The author is enjoying traveling with friends and believes that spending time with loved ones is important. They want to focus more on fun and light experiences in life.
  3. The author is reading some interesting books and articles that explore themes of art, motherhood, and personal experiences. They find these topics gripping and reflective.

Queen of the Castle

The Reclamation Era • 59 implied HN points • 15 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Embracing the 'queen archetype' represents a powerful phase for women in midlife, encouraging autonomy and self-empowerment. It's a time to recognize one's strength and wisdom.
  2. The transition from the traditional phases of womanhood—maiden, mother, crone—adds a new title: the 'queen', signifying a vibrant and active role during this life stage.
  3. Choosing a personal word for the year, like 'sovereignty', helps set intentions to reclaim one's life and prioritize personal voice and authority in decision-making.

Top Links 378 Biden & the oil industry, from guns to butter, shrinking Korea, Pax Economica & bitcoin's mad power consumption

Chartbook • 371 implied HN points • 28 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Art
  1. The post discusses various topics including Biden's relationship with the oil industry, the concept of 'guns versus butter', the shrinking of Korea, Pax Economica, and the energy consumption of Bitcoin.
  2. There is a mention of resistance art in Japan, particularly focusing on the country's opposition to American influence after 1945 and the presence of a large Communist Party.
  3. The post is intended for paid subscribers, offering additional insights and content beyond what is available to the general audience.

Occupation: Jean Cocteau

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 362 implied HN points • 03 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Artistic creations, like album covers or movie stills, can evoke a desire to create a fantasy world in one's private space, resembling collages or shrines.
  2. The article delves into a film from 1943, 'L’Éternel retour', set in occupied France and explores its subtleties and layers of interpretation regarding blonde versus brunette characters.
  3. The concept of 'Bohemian' culture, drawing connections between the characters in the film and a broader sensibility that defines a certain spiritual aristocracy.

Amazon Unearthed Rare Cuts of Rob Zombie’s Halloween 1&2

Textual Variations • 165 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Rob Zombie's _Halloween_ films have different cuts that show how the director's vision changed. The theatrical versions focus more on compromises made for distribution.
  2. The director's cut of _Halloween 2_ is seen as more authentic and explores deeper themes than the theatrical cut. It tackles Michael Myers' humanity, diverging from traditional horror expectations.
  3. The theatrical versions of the films are now available on streaming, allowing fans to experience these unique takes for the first time in years.

The Items of Interest Edition

Why is this interesting? • 120 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. There are some new products worth checking out lately. It's nice to see fresh ideas and designs coming into the market.
  2. This edition feels lighter compared to previous ones, offering a break from heavier topics.
  3. Subscribing can give you more insights and access to past posts, plus a free trial allows you to explore before committing.

Stealth Mode Diaries: Walter Ong and Nick Fuentes

Reactionary Feminist • 11 implied HN points • 29 Nov 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Taking uninterrupted blocks of time to work can greatly improve focus and creativity. It helps to keep ideas fresh in your mind without losing track of them.
  2. Writing a book requires navigating many complex ideas at once. Spending continuous time on the project allows for deeper connections between concepts.
  3. Sustained focus can lead to unexpected discoveries in your work. These surprises can enrich the overall narrative and themes you are working on.

Top Links 383 America's grotesque Gaza policy, the UK impasse, Turkey's balancing act, China's satellites, a life in three colors.

Chartbook • 357 implied HN points • 08 Mar 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Art
  1. The post discusses America's Gaza policy, the UK situation, Turkey's diplomatic role, China's satellite programs, and a life portrayed in three colors.
  2. The Chartbook Newsletter by Adam Tooze provides great links, images, and readings related to these topics.
  3. The content includes a mention of Dorothea Tanning's artwork 'Endgame' from 1944 and her desire to convey hidden aspects of life through surrealism.

End-of-Year Self-Congratulatory Gala

Atlas of Wonders and Monsters • 424 implied HN points • 28 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. The Figurative-to-Abstract Art Pipeline was the most popular post of 2023 with significant views, likes, comments, and subscribers.
  2. The Gold-Plated Man was acknowledged as the most under-appreciated post, despite being short, it made a strong, elegant point with good cover art.
  3. The post 'One Thousand and One Notes on 'One Thousand and One Nights'' was crowned as the best post of 2023 for its rich, aesthetic, and narrative qualities.

Art and Revolution

KERFUFFLE • 65 implied HN points • 31 May 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Politics can ruin art and journalism by turning them into propaganda instead of genuine expression. When artists and journalists focus too much on their political beliefs, their work loses its depth and creativity.
  2. The lines between art, journalism, and politics are blurring, which can lead to a lack of authenticity in both fields. Artists and journalists often feel pressured to conform to a certain narrative or political agenda.
  3. Art should aim to explore the complexities of human experience, rather than delivering clear-cut moral lessons. Good art reflects the richness of life, while political narratives can oversimplify and distort reality.

Cultural Red Teaming

Cybernetic Forests • 99 implied HN points • 20 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Red Teaming in cybersecurity involves trusted allies acting as enemies to identify weaknesses and strengthen defenses.
  2. The Generative Red Team event focused on testing AI models by tasking players with unique challenges like eliciting misinformation from language models.
  3. Engaging with AI systems and addressing biases requires a more nuanced and community-involved approach beyond Red Teaming events.

Clark Filio: Selected Works

Do Not Research • 99 implied HN points • 25 Sep 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Art
  1. Clark Filio's artworks include pieces like 'Children of Gont' and 'Neolithic Village, After Zdeněk', showcasing diverse themes and styles.
  2. His exhibitions like 'Heaven Ship' offer opportunities to view his artwork and appreciate the creativity behind them.
  3. Clark Filio's art often features scenes inspired by literature, original Gundam concept art, and real-life events, presenting a unique blend of imagination and reality.

Orwell Loses a War

Litverse • 99 implied HN points • 11 Jul 23
📚 Literature Art
  1. George Orwell's experience in the Spanish Civil War led him to connect with people and discover a capacity to believe and understand humanity.
  2. Orwell's pursuit for 'common decency' in war highlighted a new form of hopeful, open, and equal nationalism he hoped to inspire.
  3. Orwell's work and life showed the impact of stepping away from personal beliefs to see beauty and lives not experienced otherwise.

When Typewriters 'Killed Romance'

Pessimists Archive Newsletter • 98 implied HN points • 14 Feb 23
🕹 Technology Art
  1. Typewriters were once considered unromantic but are now seen as romantic gestures
  2. Technology has always influenced the way love is expressed, from typewriters to AI-generated love poems
  3. The debate around AI love poems raises questions about the future of romantic gestures and personalization

The Shaman and the Web

Default Wisdom • 136 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. The connection between ancient practices and the modern world is significant. It shows how traditional wisdom can still be relevant today.
  2. Technology is changing how we communicate and connect with each other. It can enhance or challenge our understanding of community.
  3. Understanding the role of storytelling and shared experiences is important. They can bridge gaps and create deeper connections among people.

Some news from the Which House

Dreams in the Which House • 98 implied HN points • 26 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Adrian Daub is working on two new projects analyzing the concept of identity politics in different countries.
  2. He will be publishing an essay in _Geschichte der Gegenwart_ diving into the usage of the term 'identity politics' in various media.
  3. Daub will also be reflecting on his experiences as a European living in the US during his upcoming book tour.

Gen Z and the Met Gala

The Digital Native • 98 implied HN points • 15 May 23
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Gen Z is drawn to the Met Gala due to its platform for pushing fashion boundaries.
  2. Social justice is a significant factor for Gen Z's love for the Met Gala.
  3. Gen Z appreciates the Met Gala for being a space to be honest critics and hold celebrities accountable.

$269 This Week Playing Against Empire

The False Consensus Effect • 59 implied HN points • 07 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. The author aims to live frugally under $300/week to resist governmental control and societal pressures.
  2. Encourages others, especially the youth, to follow a similar path of minimalistic living and contributions to charity.
  3. The author criticizes the current economic structure and lifestyle standards in the U.S., advocating for a simpler, more community-oriented way of life.

Do good and disappear

Soaring Twenties • 131 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. It's important to take a break sometimes and reflect on where you're headed. Stopping can help you reset and make better decisions.
  2. Doing good deeds without seeking attention is valuable. You can help others and then quietly move on with your life.
  3. Finding a peaceful, good place to go is worth the search. It's okay if you don't find it right away, as that is part of the journey.

Old ways to do new things

Austin Kleon • 479 implied HN points • 29 Mar 22
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Looking into the past can spark new ideas for the present. It helps you see creative possibilities that you might not notice otherwise.
  2. Combining old concepts with new works can create unique pieces. It's about mixing the familiar with the fresh to inspire more creativity.
  3. There are many ways to approach creativity, like 'old ways to do new things' and 'new ways to do old things.' Each approach can be valuable depending on what you want to achieve.

Exploit or explore?

Austin Kleon • 619 implied HN points • 12 Nov 21
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. It's important to balance what you already know with discovering new things. Finding the right time to use your skills and explore new ideas is key to growth.
  2. The idea of harmony in tension shows that opposites can coexist and lead to new insights. Embracing conflicting ideas can help us understand life better.
  3. Taking time to appreciate art and creativity is a valuable exercise. It's a good reminder to look at our surroundings and declare things as art in our lives.

Ruins in Reverse

Kneeling Bus • 176 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Redbox kiosks were once popular but are now abandoned after the company's bankruptcy, marking a shift in media consumption. These kiosks symbolize a moment in time from when DVDs were still relevant.
  2. In today's disposable culture, we often ignore waste and discarded items, but abandoned Redbox kiosks visibly remind us of past failures and what we leave behind.
  3. Empty shopping spaces like dead malls and abandoned kiosks reflect a kind of 'creative destruction' in our environment. They serve as reminders of previous use and potential for future change.

Good Luck / episode six

Nice Try • 59 implied HN points • 06 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Cults can have a strange way of influencing people. It's important to be aware of how they operate.
  2. Trust your instincts when something feels off. If a situation makes you uncomfortable, it's okay to walk away.
  3. Learning about different cultures and backgrounds can give you a fresh perspective. We can all benefit from understanding each other better.

P Is For Pyle

Castalia • 99 implied HN points • 17 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Ernie Pyle was an important World War II correspondent who may not be widely known today. His reporting style brought the realities of war to life for many people.
  2. The author emphasizes that writing has value and should be compensated. It's a reminder that while information can be free, the effort of creating it deserves payment.
  3. The post is behind a paywall, but the author notes that it's not hard to access. This highlights the balance between sharing information and recognizing the work that goes into creating it.

Notes On Thankfulness

Slack Tide by Matt Labash • 160 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Being grateful for the simple things in life, like family and pets, can really brighten our days. It's important to take a moment to appreciate those who walk beside us, both literally and metaphorically.
  2. Finding joy in nature and small moments can help us feel connected and hopeful. Whether it's watching birds or spending time by the water, these experiences can lift our spirits.
  3. Humor and friendship are valuable, especially during tough times. Even in darkness, sharing laughter and support with friends can make a big difference.

They can’t all be winners

Austin Kleon • 599 implied HN points • 26 Nov 21
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Street art is a cool way to find art in everyday life and it can really brighten up a city. It's all around us if we just take the time to look.
  2. Typewriters are becoming popular again, especially during the pandemic. People find joy in using these old machines for writing.
  3. There are many creative projects and interesting artists to explore, like documentaries and podcasts. They can inspire us and offer new ways to appreciate art and storytelling.