The hottest Art Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Science Topics

"We are sensitive machines"

Five’s Substack • 3197 implied HN points • 23 May 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Education Philosophy Art Mental health
  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.

Warm Holiday Greetings from The Hinternet

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 639 implied HN points • 24 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Media Community Creativity
  1. The author feels a strong connection to their work and has embraced writing authentically without worrying about others' opinions. This has helped them tap into deep creative ideas.
  2. In 2024, the publication grew significantly and became more like a magazine, bringing on staff and accepting guest pieces. This has created a sense of community among younger writers.
  3. The author hopes to increase paid subscriptions to support future projects and plans for 2025. They welcome all kinds of support, whether it's through subscriptions or simply sharing their work with others.

Perfectly Round Eggs On A Saturday Afternoon

Soaring Twenties • 146 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Lifestyle Relationships Personal Reflection
  1. The writer enjoys a calm Saturday morning filled with small, loving moments. Waking up slowly and spending time together sets a positive tone for the day.
  2. Cooking is a shared activity that brings them joy, like making perfectly round eggs in the kitchen. This simple task highlights their connection.
  3. They cherish being present with each other, discussing plans for the day and expressing their love. It showcases the importance of quality time in relationships.

what we talk about when we talk about taste

bookbear express • 1739 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Art Fashion Philosophy Literature Design
  1. Taste is a personal expression, influenced by our unique experiences and thoughts. It's important to focus on what feels true to us rather than just following trends.
  2. To develop a genuine sense of style or taste, we need to look inward. Buying what's popular or expensive doesn't always lead to true self-expression.
  3. Creativity often comes from valuing low-status or less popular ideas. Being an artist means focusing on what you love, even if it's different from what others appreciate.

When you hear it

Austin Kleon • 5115 implied HN points • 05 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture Art Music Literature Film Media Nature
  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.
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What Does Sleeping with 100 Men in One Day Do to the Soul?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1001 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Sex work Documentary Mental health Social Issues Art
  1. Sex work is often framed as just a job, but it raises deeper questions about the impact on one's soul and identity. It can feel like a trade-off between physicality and personal essence.
  2. A recent documentary explores the extreme lengths some will go to in the sex work industry. It shows a real-life attempt to engage with 100 men in one day.
  3. The documentary reflects on how selling your body can mean disconnecting from your own feelings and well-being. It highlights the emotional and psychological costs that aren't often discussed.

Back to the beginning

Austin Kleon • 5735 implied HN points • 22 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Music Art Media Entertainment
  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 Slop School of Internet Success and other lies about cyberspace

Experimental History • 19425 implied HN points • 16 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Internet Writing Science Art Psychology
  1. Making a living on the internet doesn't have to involve creating 'slop' content like clickbait or scams.
  2. Success online can come from creating honest, original, and interesting content that people genuinely enjoy and share.
  3. Supporting creators financially for content you enjoy can help create a better internet ecosystem and encourage more quality content.

Tuesday Thread: What Music is REALLY DOING IT FOR YOU

Culture Study • 1000 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Music Art Literature Media Fashion
  1. Music can create special holiday memories and rituals in our homes. It's nice to play favorites like classic Christmas albums to bring joy.
  2. Listening to different types of music, like a cappella or specific artists, can remind us of our loved ones and their tastes.
  3. Engaging with music and podcasts can be a fun way to connect with others and share experiences, especially during festive times.

15 things I consumed this week

Maybe Baby • 676 implied HN points • 20 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Art Food Media Music Fashion
  1. A recent article discusses how Spotify is using fake stock music to fill popular playlists and save on royalty costs for musicians. It's a surprising practice that reflects larger issues in the music industry.
  2. A sugar cookie recipe from the New York Times was shared, and the cookies turned out really well. This shows that sometimes simple recipes can lead to delicious results.
  3. The post marks the last installment of the year for sharing consumed media, highlighting the importance of reflecting on what we've experienced throughout the year.

The Heart of Christmas

The Commonplace • 544 implied HN points • 25 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Faith Tradition Poetry Art
  1. Christmas is more than decorations and gifts; it's about a deeper feeling of gratitude and love.
  2. Songs and celebrations are fun, but they don't capture the true essence of Christmas.
  3. The magic of Christmas lies in quiet moments of hope and connection, especially in the spirit of the holy child's promise.

Fold, crease, tear

Austin Kleon • 7094 implied HN points • 16 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Music Media Craft
  1. Making things with your hands, like creating zines, can boost your mood and happiness. It's good to stay connected to your creative side.
  2. Writing in a paper journal helps keep thoughts organized and can enhance creativity. Using paper is a simple yet powerful tool for self-expression.
  3. Exploring new forms of art and literature, like zines and unique book recommendations, opens up new ways to think and feel. There's always something new to discover.

Letters mingle souls

Austin Kleon • 4975 implied HN points • 29 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Music Media Poetry
  1. Letters can connect us deeply, allowing friends to communicate and share thoughts even when they're apart.
  2. Many scientists still prefer using chalk on blackboards because it offers a tactile and visual way to think and communicate ideas.
  3. Reading magazines from cover to cover can provide enriching conversations and unexpected insights, especially about creative relationships.

Automation in Movie Theaters Gives Me the Creeps

Textual Variations • 198 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Film Art Automation Cinema Media
  1. Automation in movie theaters is increasing, leading to fewer staff and a less engaging experience for viewers. People feel uneasy seeing machines replace human jobs and the emptiness of the theaters.
  2. The closing of a popular David Lynch Facebook page highlights issues with automated customer service. It shows how difficult it can be to get assistance from large companies like Meta when they rely heavily on machines.
  3. The alternate Pizza Hut version of 'Demolition Man' demonstrates how movie marketing has evolved over time. It's a fun twist that changes the film's context for different audiences, reflecting how product placement has shaped cinema.

One of the best 'true-crime' books I've read in years, a gorgeous movie about sketchy archeologists, and four songs I like

Read Max • 658 implied HN points • 22 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Books Movies Music True Crime Art
  1. There is a remarkable true-crime book that explores the history of Los Angeles. It's not just a story; it dives deep into the culture and background of the city.
  2. A stunning movie featuring archeologists is recommended, highlighting their complex and sometimes shady lives. It has a beautiful and reflective style.
  3. Four songs have been highlighted that the writer enjoys. These songs are worth a listen for those looking for new music to explore.

The Saturday Selection, Vol. 36

Why is this interesting? • 241 implied HN points • 11 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art Food Media Photography Labor
  1. McDonald's self-service kiosks led to customers ordering more food than before. This shows technology can improve sales instead of just replacing workers.
  2. A piece explored how skillets are important during evacuations, highlighting their cultural and practical significance. It's a reminder of how everyday items can carry deeper meanings.
  3. An article showcased industrial photographer Christopher Payne's work, celebrating American labor. It emphasizes the beauty and honor in various types of work.

Rundell, Ibsen, Gogh, Yoshida, Tanizaki, Atwood, Dolan, Bate, Chaucer, Orbital, Liberalism, Future, Monsters, Justice, Autism, Ass

The Common Reader • 815 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Media Film Theater
  1. Katherine Rundell is a talented children's author, and her books are worth reading for both kids and adults. Her work promotes the importance of great children's literature.
  2. Ibsen's play 'Wild Duck' can be boring because it feels overly structured and focused on heavy themes. However, seeing it performed in Norwegian adds to its emotional depth.
  3. Van Gogh's exhibition has some beautiful works, even if he's not a favorite. Experiencing art with family can create lasting memories.

Now More Than Ever

Animation Obsessive • 1973 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Animation Media Art Literature Writing
  1. The newsletter started four years ago and marked its journey with a special post. It's been a significant milestone for the creators.
  2. Initially, there was uncertainty about the audience for longer stories on animation, but they were excited to take the chance.
  3. The newsletter has grown along with its followers, showing that there's a demand for deep discussions about animation.

2025 recap

Both Are True • 329 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Society Philosophy Art Literature Personal Reflection
  1. Time feels like it moves really fast, especially when we're busy. We often miss the little joys around us because we're too focused on our phones.
  2. Even though life is busy, the special moments we share with others exist outside of time. Those moments, filled with love, can feel infinite.
  3. Life has its ups and downs, and we often joke about it, but it's important to find happiness in the little things. We should appreciate the good stuff that makes life meaningful.

Goethe and Faust for a New Age

Contemplations on the Tree of Woe • 3167 implied HN points • 04 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Philosophy Mythology Art History
  1. J.R.R. Tolkien might be compared to Goethe due to their deep knowledge and the large, influential works they created. Both men built complex worlds in their writings that resonate with deeply human themes.
  2. Tolkien's character Elendil is seen as a modern hero similar to Aeneas, embodying survival, duty, and the preservation of culture. Both characters face the challenge of keeping their people's traditions alive in the wake of disaster.
  3. Tolkien's influence goes beyond literature; it is shaping political movements today. His themes of resilience and tradition are resonating with various groups, especially in Italy and among certain political factions in the U.S.

My Smartphone Was Ruining My Life. So I Quit.

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 936 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Social media Mental health Personal Experience Influence Art
  1. Social media can create a false sense of connection, making people feel isolated even with many followers. It's easy to focus on appearances rather than real relationships.
  2. Taking a break from smartphones and social media can be liberating. Disconnecting can help you find clarity and happiness away from constant online pressures.
  3. Personal well-being should come first. Prioritizing mental health over online validation is important for a fulfilling life.

The Forster Craft Sticks Edition

Why is this interesting? • 904 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Crafts History Marketing Art Family
  1. Craft activities for kids can be fun and engaging. Subscription boxes that include everything needed for crafting are a great way to keep children entertained.
  2. Popsicle stick lamps started as simple craft projects but can be worth a lot today. Vintage examples can sell for hundreds of dollars now.
  3. Forster Manufacturing Company grew from making toothpicks to craft sticks. Their clever marketing helped them sell millions of toothpicks in America.

The Monday Media Diet with Dylan Neuhaus

Why is this interesting? • 663 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Media Literature Film Art Music
  1. Balance is key when it comes to consuming media. It's good to mix serious content with lighter, entertaining pieces.
  2. Reading deep stories about creativity and production processes can be more interesting than just the finished product, like a popular TV show.
  3. Exploring local grocery stores is a great way to learn about new places, offering a glimpse into the culture and community.

Dreaming and Fighting

Animation Obsessive • 5112 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Art Animation Storytelling Social Issues Creativity
  1. Art isn't just a way to escape problems; it can inspire change and make a difference in the world. It can connect people and provoke thoughts about important issues.
  2. Artists throughout history have fought through tough times to create meaningful work. Their stories remind us that creativity can thrive even in challenging circumstances.
  3. The process of making art can be just as valuable as the final product. Different ways of telling stories and sharing ideas can open new paths for inspiration and understanding.

The objects we love and live with

Austin Kleon • 2517 implied HN points • 14 May 24
🎭️ Culture Art Design Lifestyle Family Technology
  1. The objects we own can reveal a lot about who we are and what we value. They reflect our interests and memories.
  2. Having meaningful items at home, like a piano, can enrich our lives and provide emotional outlets, especially for children.
  3. Commercials or ads that show destruction of beloved items can be shocking and evoke strong feelings, reminding us of our attachments to the things we cherish.

Excruciatingly Boring Dystopia

antoniomelonio • 332 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Society Literature Art Philosophy Lifestyle
  1. Many people feel life is painfully boring and routine. It seems like everyone is just going through the motions without any excitement.
  2. Work and social life often feel monotonous and unfulfilling. People long for genuine connections and creativity but get stuck in boring tasks and small talk.
  3. There are hints of change and hope, like workers' movements and the potential of technology to make our lives easier. We need to find small ways to break free from this boredom.

Meet The Lipsdick: A Dick-Shaped Lipstick

The Unpublishable • 12421 implied HN points • 07 Mar 23
🪞 Fashion & Beauty Beauty Feminism Gender Art Marketing
  1. A lipstick shaped like a penis was launched, sparking discussions about beauty standards and feminism in the industry.
  2. The product's marketing as empowering and innovative is being questioned, as it may perpetuate stereotypes and lack depth.
  3. The controversy highlights issues with media coverage of such products, raising concerns about critical thinking and substance in journalism.

15 things I consumed this week

Maybe Baby • 641 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Food Art Media Literature Lifestyle
  1. Tilda Swinton's interview is really engaging and could go on forever. It's a great mix of interesting thoughts and conversation.
  2. Enjoying simple pleasures like whisky sours and fries can really make for a cozy experience. It’s nice to treat yourself to little things in a comforting setting.
  3. It's great to move past feeling unwell and find joy in sharing experiences again. Returning to favorite activities can be refreshing.

Pushing and pulling

Austin Kleon • 6754 implied HN points • 19 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Art Music Literature Comics Education
  1. There's a difference between the push internet, where things are thrown at you, and the pull internet, where you actively seek out information. It's good to engage more with the pull internet.
  2. To discover your taste, explore artists, read their biographies, and connect with their influences. Following the connections can deepen your understanding and appreciation of their work.
  3. Take time to reflect and be intentional about what you consume. The goal is to search for content that enriches your life rather than just passively scrolling through feeds.

What's in the cards

Austin Kleon • 5215 implied HN points • 23 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Music Education Design Travel
  1. Creating your own library checkout cards can be a fun project. You just need pockets, typewriters, and the right cards!
  2. New books by favorite cartoonists are now available. Check out Liana Finck's children's book and Kevin Huizenga's re-released work.
  3. Enjoying nature can be comforting, like watching baby eagles hatch on a live cam. It's a great way to connect with the world around us.

Understanding perfectionism

Austin Kleon • 2837 implied HN points • 23 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture Art Psychology Creativity Self-Improvement Personal Development
  1. Perfectionism isn't just about wanting everything to be perfect. It's more about noticing the gap between what's ideal and what's real, which can hold people back from creating.
  2. Many people may not realize they are perfectionists until they understand the signs. Recognizing this can help in overcoming blocks to doing what you want.
  3. Embracing imperfections can actually be a more freeing approach to creativity. It allows for mistakes and messiness, which can lead to more genuine art and expression.

Sick of spelling February

Austin Kleon • 4596 implied HN points • 01 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Music Art Television Writing
  1. March is here, which many people find refreshing after spelling February for so long. It's funny how small things like that can affect our mood.
  2. Keeping a blog can help you track your thoughts and creative journey over time. It’s a great way to share your interests and projects with others.
  3. Owls can be found on every continent except Antarctica. They’re fascinating creatures, and we can help them by creating safe habitats and being mindful of outdoor lighting.

december

bookbear express • 836 implied HN points • 01 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Philosophy Identity Personal Growth
  1. Commitment helps you discover what you like and dislike in life. It can change you, sometimes in surprising ways.
  2. Living deeply in experiences can feel like being stuck in a 'tar pit', where leaving is hard but staying can also be rewarding.
  3. Dream-like experiences can shape our feelings and memories, making us appreciate moments with others even more.

Sometimes it sounds like this

Austin Kleon • 5275 implied HN points • 09 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Music Writing Media
  1. Françoise Gilot's memoir about her life with Picasso is a great read. It shares interesting stories and gives insights into her artistic journey.
  2. Writing books can be really helpful for all kinds of writers. Many people shared their favorites, showing there's a wide range of useful resources out there.
  3. Listening to curated music mixes can spark creativity. Exploring different artists and themed playlists can be a delightful way to enjoy music and find inspiration.

Tuesday Thread: Where are you buying/finding art?

Culture Study • 1461 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Art Traditions Fashion Literature Music
  1. Art can create a calming atmosphere in your home. Choosing pieces that resonate with you makes your space feel more personal.
  2. Finding art can often come from recommendations by friends or other artists. Connecting with the community is a great way to discover new favorites.
  3. Exploring different artists and their work can be an enjoyable experience. Websites and social media are great places to find stunning art that speaks to you.

Looking Back

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 656 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Photography Media History
  1. Reading is a personal experience that often happens privately, yet how we represent it through visual art can tell deeper stories about attention and focus.
  2. The way we read has changed over time, from quiet bookish moments to distractions from our phones, altering how we connect with text.
  3. Photographs of readers can show the tension between our personal, private experiences and the external pressures of a surveillance-driven world, reminding us of our inner lives.

ANOTHER WORLD EXISTS

The Unpublishable • 10849 implied HN points • 21 Feb 23
🎭️ Culture Beauty Fashion Art
  1. Kim Kardashian's alien-themed campaign for SKIMS reflects a cultural beauty ideal
  2. The poem highlights societal focus on skincare technology and beauty standards
  3. It comments on humanity's superficial pursuit of perfection while longing for connection

Is the artist crying?

Austin Kleon • 5775 implied HN points • 26 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Music Film Comedy Food
  1. Citrus plants do not grow true from seeds, which means planting an orange seed could result in a grapefruit tree instead. This shows how surprising and diverse nature can be.
  2. Some slugs and snails can sleep for a very long time, which is a reminder that patience and slowing down can be important, especially during tough times like winter.
  3. Finding inspiration in conversations and interviews, like those with artists or comedians, can help renew our creative energies and give us new perspectives on our own work.