The hottest Art Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Science Topics

The Monday Media Diet with Ayo Fagbemi

Why is this interesting? • 784 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Media Design Art Travel Technology
  1. Combining timely and timeless information is important for staying updated without being overwhelmed. It's good to pick what you consume thoughtfully rather than mindlessly scrolling.
  2. Listening to podcasts and reading books are great ways to learn. Choosing insightful content helps understand complex topics better, like AI and Crypto.
  3. Following your curiosity can lead to fun discoveries. Getting lost in interesting interviews and street-style content can open your mind to new perspectives.

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.

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.
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The Saturday Selection, Vol. 38

Why is this interesting? • 361 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Music History Photography Theater
  1. The C-17 Globemaster is a powerful military aircraft that's very maneuverable, like a sports car. It's known for its strength and versatility in transport missions.
  2. The Palais Garnier in Paris is a stunning opera house, and there are beautiful images showcasing its rich interior. It's a historic venue that attracts many visitors.
  3. The way we interpret classic literature, like 'The Great Gatsby', can change over time. A leading expert dives into how our understanding may have missed important themes.

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 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.

Wicked King, Mozart: performance and posterity, Women detectives, Midwinter wood, Henry V, Venture Capital, Annihilation, Neverwhere, Enchanted Glass

The Common Reader • 602 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Music Art Performance History
  1. Wicked King is a well-written book that combines elements of horror and suspense. It has a unique and cult-classic feel, making it stand out in its genre.
  2. Reading about Mozart's life and work revealed that he improved his music by improvising during performances. This shows how creativity can blend with skill in art.
  3. Exploring different genres and topics, like women detectives and venture capital, can broaden your understanding of literature and culture.

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.

T.V. News: Pledges, Hiatus, Wong Kar Wai Revisions

Textual Variations • 231 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Film Television Media Art Entertainment
  1. The author plans to take a break from publication to catch up on other priorities, which might cause gaps in the schedule this Spring. They hope to return to a regular posting schedule by May.
  2. Wong Kar Wai's classic film 'In the Mood for Love' is being reissued in China with new footage, and there are discussions about changes that may come with this release.
  3. The new animated series 'Invincible Fight Girl' is praised for its authentic anime style and storytelling, blending action with comedic elements in a unique way.

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.

Best of The Free Press: We’re All Gonna Make It

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1799 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Art Music Literature Travel Philosophy Parenting
  1. Even in tough times, there's a sense of optimism that things can get better. It's about hoping for change and taking action instead of giving in to despair.
  2. People are finding joy in unexpected places, like celebrating together even when plans go wrong. It's about making the best out of challenging situations.
  3. There’s a shift in how young people view education, with many choosing southern colleges over prestigious Ivy League schools for a more enjoyable experience and a different environment.

Best of The Free Press: Stories That Stirred My Soul

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1697 implied HN points • 25 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Journalism Human Interest Narrative Art Personal essays
  1. It's important to be aware of the things around us that we often overlook. Being humble and curious helps us see the bigger picture in life.
  2. Stories can deeply connect us to the experiences of others, helping us appreciate what we have. They remind us of the beauty and struggles in the world.
  3. Leaving a legacy goes beyond having children; we can create beauty through our actions and creativity. Even small things, like a rosebush, can have a lasting impact.

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.

Notes on Chapter 32

Life Since the Baby Boom • 691 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Literature History Art Family Relationships
  1. The characters have reached important milestones in their lives, like successful careers and personal achievements such as adoption. These moments show growth and fulfillment.
  2. The author acknowledges the loss of a friend who contributed to the writing process, highlighting the theme of family and community. This adds an emotional depth to the story.
  3. There is a hint at upcoming events, like the Microsoft antitrust trial, suggesting that the story will intertwine personal narratives with historical events. This keeps the reader engaged with both plot and context.

Exhumations and Resolutions

The Lifeboat • 149 implied HN points • 01 Feb 25
📚 Literature Poetry Writing Prose Music Art Expression
  1. Art is a way to express our feelings and ideas, even if it feels abstract or confusing. It's important to keep creating, no matter the medium.
  2. Writing music and poetry can be a fun challenge. It’s good to learn the skills needed to improve and enjoy the process.
  3. Setting resolutions helps to focus on creative goals, like finishing a project or getting others to read your work. Sharing those goals can motivate you and others.

A process to process

Austin Kleon • 4955 implied HN points • 14 Jun 24
🎭️ Culture Art Music Literature Events Reflection
  1. Many people enjoy reflecting on memories, like going through old photos. It's a nice way to process feelings and experiences.
  2. There are always new books being released by different authors. Checking them out can introduce you to fresh ideas and stories.
  3. Gardening teaches us patience. Just like plants take time to grow, our creative projects need time to develop too.

The Year's End

Animation Obsessive • 10135 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Animation Art Film Media Storytelling
  1. Animation has had a year of ups and downs. Big hits and mass job losses coexisted in America, while Japan's animation scene is growing despite some challenges.
  2. There are plenty of inspiring stories in the animation world, like independent creators making feature films or successful documentaries about past works. Art continues to find a way to shine through difficulties.
  3. The newsletter aims to celebrate good work and share intriguing stories, showing that even in tough times, passion and creativity can lead to great achievements.

Thinking Under Fascism

Dada Drummer Almanach • 505 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art History Media Philosophy Politics
  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.

Doomscroll: Trevor Paglen

Joshua Citarella's Newsletter • 437 implied HN points • 02 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Art Media Politics Technology Design
  1. Trevor Paglen discusses how art connects technology and politics, showing us what can often be hidden or ignored. His work helps us think about the important issues behind new tech.
  2. He talks about 'psyops capitalism', where media creates content based on user behavior, which can shape our views and experiences.
  3. Paglen compares early UFO stories to today's social media disinformation, highlighting how misinformation has always been a part of our society.

The Monday Media Diet with Emilia Petrarca

Why is this interesting? • 2232 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Fashion Literature Travel Media Art
  1. The author has a deep love for fashion and culture writing, often consuming and creating content across many platforms. They follow a diverse range of publications and newsletters to stay informed.
  2. Reading is an important part of their routine, with a special interest in fiction, particularly romance. They also appreciate stories that showcase unique experiences, such as total eclipses.
  3. The author had a memorable experience with train travel and learned to be cautious with airplane food after a bad incident. They are passionate about sharing fun travel stories and quirky experiences.

Northampton MP labels plan to move statues ‘cultural vandalism’

NN Journal • 298 implied HN points • 08 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Art History Politics Community Heritage
  1. Moving the statues is seen as cultural vandalism by MP Lucy Rigby. She believes they should stay in the town center where people can learn about the important figures they represent.
  2. The West Northamptonshire Council is exploring options for using the Guildhall, which has made the statue relocation a topic of discussion. They plan to consult the public before making any decisions.
  3. Local residents feel strongly that the statues belong in their current location. Many consider the historic Guildhall an important part of the town's identity and heritage.

Austen saved me from social media

The Common Reader • 708 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Philosophy Media Social
  1. Reading Jane Austen can offer a refreshing break from the fast-paced and often shallow content of social media. It allows for a deeper engagement with language and storytelling.
  2. Switching from social media to classic literature can feel challenging at first, but it can lead to a rewarding reading experience. The complexity of Austen's writing is like a nutritious meal compared to fast food.
  3. Engaging with classic literature may require patience and effort, but it ultimately helps to develop a more thoughtful and enriching perspective on communication and social interactions.

Make Villains Evil Again

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1377 implied HN points • 27 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Film Literature Art Theater Traditions
  1. Villains are often given sad backstories nowadays, making them less scary. It's nice to see a movie where the villain is just pure evil, like in _Nosferatu_.
  2. The film _Nosferatu_ creates a chilling atmosphere, focusing on darkness and fear. It's set in a time when there was no electricity, which adds to the spooky vibe.
  3. Traditional Christmas decorations used to be very dangerous, like lighting trees with candles. These traditions reflect how people once dealt with the darkness of winter nights.

One of 2024's Best Films Was Made in Pakistan

Animation Obsessive • 9956 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Film Animation Art Music Storytelling
  1. The Glassworker is a unique animated film from Pakistan that explores themes of art and war. It highlights the importance of creativity even in difficult times.
  2. The creators of The Glassworker spent ten years making the film, overcoming challenges to set up their animation studio in Karachi. They aimed to prove that high-quality animation could be produced in Pakistan.
  3. The film combines local culture with a universal fantasy feel, using the story of glassblowing to reflect the journey of its creators. It's set against the backdrop of their experiences growing up during conflict.

Ampersanding

Austin Kleon • 4995 implied HN points • 07 Jun 24
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Music Media Philosophy
  1. The ampersand symbol comes from the Latin word 'et', meaning 'and'. It shows how language can evolve over time.
  2. It's important to revisit your old notes because they can remind you of ideas and thoughts you may have forgotten.
  3. Finding the right music for writing is key; it should be upbeat but not too distracting so you can focus on your thoughts.

Oh, father

Disaffected Newsletter • 2018 implied HN points • 26 Jul 24
🎭️ Culture Art Music Identity Family Trauma
  1. The speaker's childhood was marked by trauma, particularly from their mother's inconsistent love and the presence of an abusive stepfather. They often felt unsafe and questioned their worth.
  2. Music and artists like Madonna became a refuge for the speaker, helping them process their feelings and experiences. Songs like 'Oh Father' resonated deeply with their struggles and emotions.
  3. The speaker reflects on the complexity of their feelings towards their parents, understanding that both love and pain can exist in relationships, leading to confusion about forgiveness and redemption.

A big pile of imperfect things

Austin Kleon • 5815 implied HN points • 24 May 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Music Film Education
  1. Reading big books can be enjoyable, especially when you take your time with them. Some people like to read them in parts over several weeks.
  2. It's okay to create imperfect things. The idea is to enjoy the process and keep going despite not being perfect.
  3. Finding joy in what you like can lead to happiness. It's about discovering new things to appreciate and even learning to like things you didn't before.

A 'Secret History'-ish period mystery, a great '90s true-crime black comedy, and four songs I like

Read Max • 711 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Film Music Art Media
  1. There's a cool mystery book set in the 1900s, inspired by 'The Secret History.' It blends academic settings with intrigue.
  2. A fun '90s true crime black comedy is highlighted, exploring themes of media and ambition. It's both entertaining and thought-provoking.
  3. Four music tracks are recommended, showing the author's current favorites. It's a great way to discover new tunes.

#198: Trying to see something

Maybe Baby • 2172 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Relationships Art Mindfulness Self-reflection Gratitude
  1. Over time, people in relationships can notice their differences more than their similarities. It's interesting how our perceptions shift as we get to know someone deeply.
  2. Our appreciation for what we have can fade into the background. It's important to regularly take a moment to recognize and be grateful for the good things in our lives.
  3. Creating or experiencing art can help us appreciate life more fully. It reminds us of sensations we've forgotten and can open our eyes to new feelings and perspectives.

Success means you get to do it again tomorrow

Austin Kleon • 6554 implied HN points • 10 May 24
🎭️ Culture Art Music Literature Film Design
  1. Success is about doing what you love and getting to keep doing it, day after day. It's not about reaching a final goal, but enjoying the process.
  2. Understanding what you like can help you feel less stressed about being liked, which can make your work more authentic and free.
  3. Artists like Steve Albini believe that goals can create unnecessary stress. Instead, focusing on enjoying the process can lead to true success.