The hottest Art Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Science Topics

Dimension Hopper Part 1

General Robots • 395 HN points • 12 Jun 23
🕹 Technology Art
  1. The project involves creating a 2D platformer where players design levels and AI generates visual representations.
  2. The journey to achieve this project involved experimenting with different techniques and models, such as adjusting depth images and adding more detail to improve visual outcomes.
  3. Using the right control images, supporting structures, and techniques like adding adjustable roughness, greatly improved the quality of the generated images.

Kitty's Bordello #1

Pizza Party • 28 implied HN points • 23 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Steadman is a reporter who works undercover and finds a place called Salon Kitty. It piques his interest because of the unique insights it offers.
  2. As Steadman investigates further, he encounters more questions about what really happened to Madame Kitty.
  3. The story hints at intrigue and mystery, inviting readers to think about the deeper implications of his discoveries.

Magnus Carlsen, David Deutsch and the "Fun Criterion"

SatPost by Trung Phan • 69 implied HN points • 28 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Magnus Carlsen, a top chess player, emphasizes that enjoying the game is key to his success. He believes that treating chess as a fun hobby rather than a job helps him perform better.
  2. David Deutsch's 'fun criterion' suggests that feeling enjoyment during an activity can be a powerful guide for decision-making and problem-solving. It's about aligning your conscious and unconscious ideas to find what truly matters.
  3. Choosing paths based on fun can lead to greater fulfillment and creativity. Many people, including successful figures, often overlook enjoyment in their choices, which can lead to dissatisfaction.

The Rise of the New Romanticism

Political Currents by Ross Barkan • 72 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Movies and music are changing, with superhero films and major pop stars like Taylor Swift losing their dominant cultural grip. People are starting to seek new forms of art and storytelling that resonate more deeply with their lives.
  2. There's a growing frustration with technology, especially AI, as people question its real benefits and whether it genuinely improves our lives. Many are yearning for more human connection and less tech dependence.
  3. A new cultural movement, reminiscent of Romanticism, is emerging. People are valuing authenticity and reality over the superficial aspects of digital life, seeking to create meaningful experiences and engagements in the physical world.

Rabbit Holes 🕳️ #126

Creative Destruction • 28 implied HN points • 30 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Things might seem worse due to perceived obsolescence, where products are designed to feel outdated even if they still work well. This affects our identity as consumers and leads to lower quality of life.
  2. We're entering a post-reality era where people's feelings shape what's considered real, influenced heavily by AI and social media. This creates echo chambers and challenges our grasp on shared truths.
  3. Instead of just trying to scale quickly, we should focus on building deeper relationships and connections. Real impact comes from understanding and caring about the communities we serve.
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Does the Pope Go to the Movies?

Gideon's Substack • 9 implied HN points • 18 Nov 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Movies are a powerful art form that can touch people's souls and create connections among audiences. They encourage us to reflect on life in a unique way.
  2. Experiencing films in a theater with an audience can change how we feel about them, making the experience richer than watching alone at home.
  3. The Pope's message to filmmakers highlights the importance of art in society, suggesting that filmmakers can contribute to a shared deeper understanding and connection with others.

Curator

Castalia • 139 implied HN points • 22 Jan 23
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Literary prizes can distract from an artist's true growth and craft. They often create a focus on external validation rather than personal development in art.
  2. Critics have strayed from their true role, becoming more about filtering works for the public than truly engaging with and interpreting art. Real criticism should be a creative dialogue alongside artists.
  3. Science is not as objective as people think. Its methods and findings can change with cultural beliefs, and it's important to recognize that it operates within a social context just like any other belief system.

Top Links 369 The lasagne of European farm politics, South African power cut misery, uninsurable weather & Adrienne Rich

Chartbook • 228 implied HN points • 14 Feb 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Art
  1. The post discusses a variety of topics like European farm politics, South African power cuts, and uninsurable weather.
  2. The images and links shared in the post are from the Chartbook Newsletter by Adam Tooze.
  3. There is a mention of French painter and poet Jean-Michel Atlan's tragic life and his time at a mental health facility.

Brief note on stylisation and formulaicity*

Logos • 19 implied HN points • 01 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Stylisation refers to a unique approach in art where form and content stand out from each other. It can bring something fresh but might also lessen the impact of the subject being represented.
  2. Formulaicity means using a predictable framework or pattern in storytelling. While some formulaic works can still be enjoyable, if they're poorly executed, they can end up being boring.
  3. When a work is both stylised and formulaic, it can be entertaining but often falls short of greatness. It's important that both style and execution are well-balanced for a piece to stand out.

Calvin & Hobbes, Bill Watterson and Art Over Commerce

SatPost by Trung Phan • 106 implied HN points • 09 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Bill Watterson, the creator of Calvin & Hobbes, chose not to commercialize his work through merchandise. He believed that doing so would devalue the comic and preferred to keep it as pure art.
  2. Watterson stopped drawing Calvin & Hobbes after ten years, feeling that he had said everything he wanted to say. He wanted to leave when the comic was still loved, rather than risk it becoming stale.
  3. Watterson's journey shows that creating art for the love of it, rather than for money, can lead to lasting impact. His decision to not overextend Calvin & Hobbes has kept its legacy alive and well-regarded even decades later.

Against Confession

Castalia • 179 implied HN points • 22 Oct 22
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Memoirs often focus on personal trauma and overcoming adversity, making them popular in today's culture. People seem to find inspiration in these true stories.
  2. There's a growing preference for memoirs over fiction because readers relate to real experiences more than imagined ones. Many feel fiction lacks the 'realness' they crave.
  3. Imagination in storytelling is being lost as people focus more on personal confessions instead of creating new worlds through fiction. It's important to remember the value of creativity and make-believe.

Losing words

The Leftovers • 99 implied HN points • 22 Nov 22
📚 Literature Art
  1. The author reflects on the idea that sometimes writing is meant to be left behind, rather than preserved or shared.
  2. The text discusses Daniela Cascella's book 'Singed,' which delves into themes of loss in various forms.
  3. The narrative explores the notion of writing as a cathartic process, allowing the writer to let go and embrace the act of losing words.

Vol. 1, Issue 22 - Interview with Lewtwo

Johto Times • 79 implied HN points • 06 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Lewtwo is working hard to preserve Pokémon media, including art, music, and videos, with help from his friends and community. This effort is crucial to keeping the franchise's history alive.
  2. Pokémon Concierge, a new stop-motion animation series by Netflix, is set to premiere in December 2023 and will feature a story about a concierge catering to Pokémon at a resort.
  3. Pokémon GO recently celebrated its seventh anniversary with in-game events and special bonuses, highlighting the continued popularity of the franchise in the gaming community.

The State of the Culture Is...Not Bad, Actually

The Ruffian • 215 implied HN points • 09 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Hollywood is showing signs of a mini-renaissance with a recent surge in quality films and more diverse storytelling, bucking the trend of blockbuster dominance.
  2. While concerns about a decline in mainstream culture persist, there are still pockets of innovation and quality in mediums like books, TV, music, and film, hinting at a complex and multifaceted cultural landscape.
  3. Previous golden ages in commercial art forms, like Hollywood in the 1970s, have occurred during periods of transition and uncertainty, suggesting that creativity flourishes when traditional norms are disrupted.

1968 Has Ended

Desk Notes by Charles Schifano • 340 implied HN points • 28 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. 1968 had localized revolutions with varied impacts globally
  2. The cultural influence of 1968 has started to fade with newer generations
  3. Cultural progress involves valuing history but also striving for innovation

🎉 Welcoming September with the Hottest Updates

Digest // Storefronts of Bangkok • 59 implied HN points • 30 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. September in Bangkok promises exciting events and unforgettable memories. It's a month filled with vibrant experiences and open arms to welcome all.
  2. Upcoming events in Bangkok include a techno music experience, an art exhibition, and a prestigious concert by Zubin Mehta. There's a variety of cultural and entertainment options to enjoy.
  3. Don't miss out on dining experiences like Sunday brunch at Cantina Bangkok, and keep an eye out for new store openings and celebrity appearances. Bangkok's dynamic scene offers something for everyone.

Friction Creates the Energy

Cybernetic Forests • 59 implied HN points • 01 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Friction is essential in shaping technology deployment and impacts, reminding us that social processes influence design choices and technological outcomes.
  2. The 'Story & Code' program explored AI-augmented tools and workflows, providing insights useful for artists, curators, educators, and audiences interested in AI art and ethics.
  3. The song 'Discommunication' touches on the theme of friction creating energy, relevant to discussions on labor shaping AI deployment and the societal impact of innovation.

Why So Cyan? On the digital modernization of 'The Abyss'

Textual Variations • 265 implied HN points • 28 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. The digital modernization of movies involves new color grading to make them more contemporary.
  2. Films need to be modernized for new home video formats to remain accessible to audiences.
  3. Modernization of films for preservation may result in visible changes, like updated color grades, to fit evolving technological standards.

Elon's AI coup

Kyle Chayka Industries • 71 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Elon Musk is influencing government operations with AI, which raises concerns about democracy and human decision-making. Many fear that this could lead to a system dominated by technology and a few elites.
  2. The automation driven by Musk's AI initiatives is impacting vital government services, making them faster but potentially less accountable. It could mean less human oversight in areas that affect people's lives.
  3. In today's media landscape, there's a need for new ways to share and connect with audiences. Writers and readers are looking for stable platforms to engage with each other more effectively.

Curator

Castalia • 159 implied HN points • 23 Nov 22
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Native American history is often told as a story of victimization, but a new perspective sees it as a narrative of struggle and resilience. This shift acknowledges that Native Americans are still here and actively shaping their own stories.
  2. The question of whether Jews are considered 'white' reveals larger issues of identity and power. It's not just about skin color; it's about understanding the complexities and variations within ethnic groups and recognizing that identities can be mixed and multifaceted.
  3. Casanova's writings offer a vivid snapshot of 18th-century life, but his personal morals are complex. Instead of judging him by today's standards, we should appreciate how his perspective sheds light on the social dynamics of his time.

Crystallised Authenticity

the shimmering void • 69 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. The role of an artist is to express their feelings and engage with what they observe. It's important to stay true to oneself and reflect on the world honestly.
  2. Creativity isn't just about making flashy things; it takes effort and genuine emotion to create work that resonates with people. Shallow, trendy stuff often lacks real connection.
  3. Art helps people understand their feelings and the world around them better. Artists should aim for authenticity in their work, connecting deeply with their audience through meaningful expression.

Solstice Dance

Splattern • 39 implied HN points • 22 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Dancing with a community can feel very different from dancing alone. It's nice to join with others and get into a good flow together.
  2. It's okay to have both solo adventures and connections with others. Being open to working with people can lead to rewarding experiences.
  3. Love can come from many sources, not just romantic relationships. Keeping your heart open can help you receive love in a variety of ways.

Lesson Plan: Model Home

The Field Trip Newsletter • 58 implied HN points • 17 Apr 23
🚌 Education Art
  1. The lesson plan focuses on teaching children about different housing styles around the world
  2. Children are encouraged to create a blueprint design of their own home and build a model home from another part of the world
  3. Additional ideas include hosting a mini film festival, studying global weather patterns, and building structures from around the world

Photo-negative reflection

Nonlinear • 58 implied HN points • 20 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. In fine dining and writing, there are two extremes: complexity and simplicity.
  2. Great writing can be innovative and complex or simple and profound.
  3. The human experience is about exploring extremes and expanding the range of possible emotions.

On Teaching Entrepreneurship

The Rest • 58 implied HN points • 12 Mar 23
🚌 Education Art
  1. Teaching entrepreneurship can be a complex mix of personal reflection and systemic critique.
  2. In today's world, many feel the pressure to be entrepreneurs due to shrinking job opportunities and rising costs.
  3. There are always alternatives to the current system, as shown by various popular liberation movements.

Movie Corner

The Golden Notebooks • 58 implied HN points • 22 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. The writer enjoys watching documentaries directed by women with feminist themes.
  2. The documentary 'All the Beauty and the Bloodshed' is praised for its impactful storytelling and visual contrast.
  3. The movie 'Barbie' is viewed through the perspective of a child, exploring the relationship between imagination and reality.

MSCHF, escapism, and Gen Z

The Digital Native • 58 implied HN points • 10 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. MSCHF is an art collective that blends absurdity and fashion, known for their unconventional drops like the Jesus and Satan shoes.
  2. MSCHF stands out by creating viral content without traditional marketing, appealing to Gen Z's love for novelty and escapism.
  3. In a world craving newness and belonging, unique and weird ideas like MSCHF's products provide escapism and captivate attention.

A Walk In The Park

Soaring Twenties • 100 implied HN points • 13 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Walking can help clear your mind and inspire new ideas. Many great writers are also big walkers because it allows them to think and create.
  2. A good essay is like a walk without a strict path. You explore, get distracted, and discover new things along the way.
  3. Taking a moment to breathe and enjoy nature lets you see things differently. It's a reminder that we all need time to pause and reflect.

sunday memepool

bad cattitude • 101 implied HN points • 27 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Modern culture often feels repetitive, as if it's stuck in a loop.
  2. There's a perceived disconnect from important traditions that used to shape society.
  3. Reconnecting with these traditions can help bring back a sense of meaning and diversity to our cultural landscape.

Prism Lights

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind • 239 implied HN points • 26 May 22
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Prism lights were created after the Great Fire of 1889 in Seattle to bring light to underground spaces under sidewalks. They were designed to let natural light into these areas.
  2. There are thousands of prism lights in Seattle, especially in the Pioneer Square area, but many are damaged or replaced by hard materials. This shows how important it is to preserve these historical features.
  3. Prism lights can also be found in other cities like London and New York, dating back to the late 1800s. However, modern building owners often cover them up because it's cheaper than keeping them intact.

Seizing the Means of Perception

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 7 implied HN points • 24 Nov 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. AI presents huge harms — from job losses and surveillance to massive energy use and even existential risks — that are already reshaping society and the economy.
  2. At the same time, AI is a powerful media tool that can democratize storytelling and spread ideas quickly, so it can be used for good or ill depending on who controls it.
  3. There’s a short window to learn and experiment with AI storytelling so ethical creators can seize cultural influence, build alternatives, and counter the sway of wealthy, malicious actors.

Curator

Castalia • 99 implied HN points • 09 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Substack and Twitter are in a conflict. Twitter is blocking links from Substack, causing tensions between the two platforms.
  2. Timothy Snyder, a historian, makes important connections between history and current politics, emphasizing Ukraine's significance. He argues that a historian can and should engage with today's issues.
  3. There is a creativity overflow in art today, but many artists feel lost and unable to compete. As more art is created, the challenge is standing out and being recognized in a crowded market.

Confessions of a Serial Flirter

Splattern • 39 implied HN points • 16 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Independence and community go hand in hand. When we share with others, we find support and a sense of belonging.
  2. Sometimes, commitment to a person happens naturally rather than being forced. It's nice when you just know someone is right for you.
  3. Experiencing life through interactions with different people offers excitement. Flirting and making connections can lead to unexpected adventures.

Ways of Seeing—On Bernhard's Old Masters

Vremya • 199 implied HN points • 11 Aug 22
📚 Literature Art
  1. Everything in art, as in life, has flaws. When we look closely, we’ll often find faults, even in the greatest masterpieces.
  2. Our personal experiences shape how we see the world. Sometimes, our pain or feelings can color our view of things, making us more critical or negative.
  3. Losing someone we love changes everything. It can make us see things differently, and sometimes, we may feel that nothing else holds the same meaning or value.

Catching a wave

Austin Kleon • 339 implied HN points • 30 Nov 21
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. The creative process can be like catching a wave, where timing and intuition are key to success. Just like surfers need to know when to catch a wave, creators have to find the right moment to begin their work.
  2. Watching documentaries about creative people can inspire new ways of thinking about artistry. For example, comparing The Beatles' creative process to surfing helped spark new ideas.
  3. Understanding creativity might come from different experiences, like surfing. It helps to remember that creativity requires patience and knowing how to ride the waves of inspiration.