The hottest Art Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Science Topics

Friday Thread: AUGUST OPEN CHAOS THREAD

Culture Study • 1064 implied HN points • 01 Aug 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. The post invites open discussion and encourages people to share what inspires them. It's a space for everyone to express their thoughts and feelings without any restrictions.
  2. It showcases a community where people can connect over various topics. This kind of platform fosters a sense of belonging and support among its members.
  3. The emphasis is on creativity and personal expression. It's all about what moves you and makes you feel something, promoting authenticity in conversations.

15 things Crystal consumed this week

Maybe Baby • 971 implied HN points • 08 Aug 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. It's important to share personal experiences as they can resonate with others. People connect more with stories than just facts.
  2. Embracing change can be challenging, but it's a part of life that everyone goes through. We can learn and grow from those experiences.
  3. Trying new things, even if they're different or out of comfort zones, can lead to fun discoveries and insights.

What was the gothic revival?

The Common Reader • 1311 implied HN points • 24 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. The Gothic revival was a movement that brought back medieval art and architecture, blending it with modern ideas of the time.
  2. Jane Austen made fun of Gothic themes in her work, questioning why a writer in the 1790s would choose to focus on old-fashioned medieval elements.
  3. The shift from Gothic to classical styles reflected a change in thinking during the Enlightenment, where reason and science became more valued than the mystery of the past.

Old notes to myself

Austin Kleon • 2358 implied HN points • 05 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Don't get too caught up in your own ideas. It's important to think about the bigger world outside of your thoughts and not just what you've read.
  2. Creating art is like sharing energy. The connection between the artist and the audience brings the work to life.
  3. Inspiration comes from what's around you, not just from within. Pay attention to the world and gather ideas from your surroundings.

More for me!

Austin Kleon • 3437 implied HN points • 09 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Embracing the phrase 'More for me!' can help you focus on what you enjoy, even if others don’t share your tastes. It’s a great way to remind yourself to keep doing what makes you happy.
  2. Nostalgia can bring up deep feelings when revisiting childhood memories. Reflecting on these moments can help us appreciate our past and connect with loved ones.
  3. Listening to music, like Miles Davis's 'Milestones,' can set the mood for your experiences. Finding the right soundtrack can transform ordinary moments into something special.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

THE JC PENNEY DEBACLE

Cintra Wilson Feels Your Pain • 1316 implied HN points • 18 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. The author faced backlash and public condemnation for an article she wrote about JC Penney that was perceived as snobbish and cruel.
  2. The incident led to the author being publicly renounced by The New York Times, causing significant personal and professional consequences.
  3. Despite the backlash, some individuals supported the author and appreciated her humor and writing style.

Goethe and Faust for a New Age

Contemplations on the Tree of Woe • 3167 implied HN points • 04 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  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.

The Bluestocking, vol 304: Cowardice and AI crime fiction

The Bluestocking • 1120 implied HN points • 09 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. The cost of theater tickets in different countries can impact the accessibility of culture and art, affecting the sustainability of artistic communities.
  2. AI is being used to generate fiction at a rapid pace, showcasing the pressure some authors feel to produce content quickly.
  3. Concerns about age and capabilities arise in politics, like with President Biden's age being a cause for debate.

Messages from the compost heap

Austin Kleon • 3197 implied HN points • 23 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Reading classics like Don Quixote can be surprisingly funny and relatable, showing that older books are often much more lively than we think.
  2. Riding a bicycle can bring joy and a fresh perspective to life, making the city feel like a new place to explore.
  3. Boredom is important for everyone, not just kids. It can help spark creativity and give us time to think.

How to Tell If You're Living in a Binary Crisis

The Honest Broker • 8810 implied HN points • 07 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Binary conflicts simplify complex situations by reducing them to two opposing forces.
  2. In many aspects of life, binary oppositions are prevalent, from sports competitions to academic contests.
  3. History shows that binary conflicts can escalate into crises, with warning signs to watch out for.

Mixed feelings

Austin Kleon • 2517 implied HN points • 15 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. It's normal to feel two emotions at once, and that's okay. We all have mixed feelings about things in life.
  2. Kids can learn a lot from shows like Daniel Tiger, especially about understanding emotions and complex feelings.
  3. Adults often struggle more with these feelings, and it's important to practice dealing with emotions rather than ignoring them.

Jerusalem in Paint

Cosmographia • 1118 implied HN points • 07 Feb 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Art
  1. The post is about 'Jerusalem in Paint' and is a special guest edition by George Bothamley.
  2. George Bothamley writes about history's greatest artists and their masterpieces in his Art Every Day substack.
  3. The post is for paid subscribers, and there is a link to subscribe for more content from George Bothamley.

Professional human loser

Austin Kleon • 3816 implied HN points • 05 May 23
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Embracing the idea of being okay with failure can lead to a more fulfilling outlook on life. It's all about learning and growing, even when things don't go as planned.
  2. Creative expression, like making blackout poems, can be therapeutic and inspiring. It's important to find joy in the creative process regardless of others' opinions.
  3. Sharing your work can help you connect with others and build an audience. Don't be afraid to put your creativity out there and see where it leads.

Meditations On Bono Receiving The Presidential Medal Of Freedom From Joe Biden

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 3166 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Bono has been awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, raising questions about the authenticity of such awards in a society perceived as fake.
  2. Despite his humanitarian claims, Bono has strong ties to powerful figures and institutions, leading to criticism of his commercialized activism.
  3. The current state of art and creativity is often corrupted, serving the interests of the elite instead of promoting genuine change for the betterment of society.

Suzy Weiss: Jussie Smollett Sticks to His Story

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 848 implied HN points • 23 Aug 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Cracker Barrel changed its logo, and many people think the new design feels corporate and out of touch. They miss the old logo that represented a simpler, more nostalgic time.
  2. The reaction to the logo change highlights how some view such changes as part of a bigger cultural fight, associating it with being 'woke' or losing traditional values.
  3. Critics suggest that the redesign erases Southern culture, while supporters claim it keeps the brand relevant and connected to its roots.

What's got my attention this week #40

The Shift With Sam Baker • 878 implied HN points • 08 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. The newsletter shares links, recommendations, and stories to enjoy over the weekend.
  2. One highlighted book discusses the challenges faced by women trying to advance in their careers, offering a relatable and eye-opening narrative.
  3. The podcast episode features a remarkable woman, Karyn McCluskey, who made significant impact in reducing gang violence in Glasgow and shares candid insights on various topics.

Small requirements

Austin Kleon • 3577 implied HN points • 19 May 23
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. It's important to let go of perfection and just share your work, like Joan Baez says about drawing. Sometimes, you just have to put it out there.
  2. Telling your story is crucial for holding onto your memories and who you are. If you don't share it, you might lose it.
  3. Creative work can be like gardening: you take your time, grow slowly, and eventually leap into your projects with confidence.

The Monday Media Diet with Daniel Giacopelli

Why is this interesting? • 1085 implied HN points • 14 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Reading a lot of newsletters can help you stay informed and inspired, but it's easy to get overwhelmed. It's important to find a balance and prune your subscriptions sometimes.
  2. Exploring local culture and history can spark curiosity and lead to fascinating discoveries about where you live. Even your own neighborhood can have a rich past worth exploring.
  3. Using apps and technology in creative ways, like learning about bird species or local history through geolocation, can enhance your experiences and connection to your surroundings.

Keep The Talent Funnel Wide (Part 2)

Range Widely • 1808 implied HN points • 21 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Diversifying entry points in talent development accommodates both fast risers and slow bakers.
  2. Slow and steady development can lead to significant achievements in various fields, like art.
  3. Encouraging diverse entry points into fields like art can help discover talent that may otherwise go unnoticed.

Things Worth Remembering: ‘Endurance Comes Only from Enduring’

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1270 implied HN points • 29 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Czesław Miłosz was a famous Polish poet who moved to California, finding both beauty and alienation in his new home. His letters show how he felt amazed and conflicted about the landscape and culture around him.
  2. He lived in California longer than he did anywhere else, making it a special and significant place in his life. It became a refuge for him after experiencing two world wars and the Holocaust.
  3. Miłosz was recognized for his bravery during the Holocaust, as he helped save Jewish lives. This history deeply influenced his poetry and life as a whole.

Entering into the spirit

Austin Kleon • 1998 implied HN points • 31 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. To really enjoy something, it's important to let go and surrender to it. When we enter into the spirit of an activity, we can connect deeply and get more out of it.
  2. Creative blocks often come from trying too hard to control the process. Instead of forcing things, letting go and being open can help overcome these blocks.
  3. Finding joy in creative work is about embracing the experience. When we engage fully, we unlock a world of inspiration that can be missed when we stay distant.

Maps of scenius

Austin Kleon • 2178 implied HN points • 12 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Scenius is about creativity that comes from a group, not just individual genius. Joining or creating a supportive community can help boost your creative efforts.
  2. Successful sceniuses have elements like friendly competition and easy sharing of ideas and tools. This sense of connection can lead to more innovation and creativity.
  3. Balancing connection with others and taking time alone is crucial for creativity. Both interacting with a community and having time to reflect can enhance your creative output.

New York City part three

Tao Lin • 339 implied HN points • 02 Jun 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Listening to your own lectures can help you find areas to improve. It’s a good way to reflect on your speaking skills.
  2. Practicing regularly can enhance your performance for future presentations. Each time you present, you can get a little better.
  3. Seeking feedback from others can provide new insights. Getting different perspectives can help you grow as a speaker.

⬜ The importance of curation

One Thing • 1186 implied HN points • 22 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Curation has a long history dating back to ancient Rome, starting as a way to manage aspects of city life and evolving into a responsibility of caretaking, on both a spiritual and physical level.
  2. The concept of curation has shifted over time, from being associated with museum stewards to being seen as a glamorous act online, where individuals are faced with curating their digital presence to navigate vast content.
  3. There's a call for more support for curation, emphasizing the importance of sustaining those who find and organize valuable content, moving beyond just paying creators for their work.

Welcome to my words

Technohumanism • 139 implied HN points • 22 Jul 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Connecting art and science is important to understand human experiences and creativity. Both play a role in helping us find meaning in our lives.
  2. The author has a diverse background in journalism and tech, sharing unique stories and insights from various industries. Their experiences aim to bring a fresh perspective on complex topics.
  3. The aim of this Substack is to explore intriguing ideas and offer guidance about navigating the changing world, especially in relation to technology and its impact on society.

How to find your people

Austin Kleon • 4536 implied HN points • 24 Feb 23
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Writing a blog post or making a video can help you connect with like-minded people. It’s a way to find your community.
  2. Keeping a diary or journal can be a great way to reflect on your thoughts and feelings. It's nice to have a collection of other people's diaries to read too.
  3. Books can be more fun if we think of them as toys. Instead of just reading them, we can enjoy them in a playful way.

Final Overstock Sale!

50 Years of Text Games • 1444 implied HN points • 22 May 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. There will be a final sale of leftover items from the 50 Years of Text Games campaign on May 25th. Many of these items have been sold out for a while, so it's a good chance to grab them.
  2. The sale includes special items like collector's editions, replica cassette tapes, and unique maps. Some items are limited in quantity, so they may sell out quickly.
  3. If you're outside the U.S., be aware that extra shipping costs might apply due to customs. It's best to consider this before making a purchase.

How to Like Things More

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2861 implied HN points • 11 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. You can learn to enjoy things more by practicing. Like any skill, enjoying experiences takes effort and attention.
  2. Focus on the details that make something special. Instead of just noticing the obvious, try to find the layers beneath the surface.
  3. Sometimes, it's about shifting your perspective. Looking at different aspects of what you like can deepen your appreciation and make the experience more rewarding.

AI Won't Kill Us But It Will Take Our Souls

Discourse Blog • 1061 implied HN points • 31 Jan 24
🕹 Technology Art
  1. AI is being developed with a focus on maximizing profit and control rather than enhancing human life or creativity.
  2. There are concerns about AI replacing human jobs, especially in fields like content writing, where the quality of AI-generated work is still inferior.
  3. There is a fear that AI industry leaders prioritize profit and control over preserving aspects of the human experience that should be kept free from AI influence.

Here's to you, "Mrs. Robinson"

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 399 implied HN points • 16 May 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. The song 'Mrs. Robinson' from the movie 'The Graduate' became a cultural icon and reflected the generational divide of the 1960s. It showed the struggles of young people against their parents' expectations.
  2. Both the film and the soundtrack were huge successes, winning numerous awards and ranking high on various lists, highlighting the powerful impact of music in cinema.
  3. Paul Simon's creative process led to the song's development during filming, showcasing how spontaneous ideas can turn into timeless classics that resonate with many people.

To be everywhere is to be nowhere

Austin Kleon • 3557 implied HN points • 21 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Being everywhere can make you feel lost and disconnected. It's better to focus on a few places or activities to have a more meaningful experience.
  2. Reading full books can be more enjoyable and informative than just scrolling through news or articles. They can give you a deeper understanding of a subject.
  3. It's important to support artists, whether through buying their music or attending events. This helps keep creativity alive in our communities.

Year in review, 2024

The Common Reader • 2799 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Subscriber numbers more than doubled from 7,440 to 16,068 in a year, showing strong growth. Thanks to everyone for reading!
  2. The book 'Second Act' received positive reviews from well-known publications, highlighting its appeal to late bloomers seeking success.
  3. Popular topics on The Common Reader included essays on literary criticism and cultural commentary, reflecting a mix of interests among readers.

Saxony

Cosmographia • 1597 implied HN points • 22 Nov 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Art
  1. The post is about Saxony, featuring art, poetry, literature, cartography, and photography centered around this specific place.
  2. The content is part of the Atlas' Notebook series on Cosmographia, available for paid subscribers.
  3. The post includes a mix of creative elements like art, poetry, and photography focused on highlighting Saxony.

Quitting the chocolate factory

Austin Kleon • 2118 implied HN points • 22 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Sometimes, we can find ourselves doing work that doesn't feel right for us, like Charlie running the chocolate factory. It’s important to think about what truly makes us happy.
  2. Mid-life crises are common and can lead to big changes in our lives. Reflecting on our choices can help us make better decisions moving forward.
  3. Stories about characters facing big life choices, like Charlie and Peter Pan, can inspire us to evaluate our own paths and dreams.

30-day challenge

Austin Kleon • 5875 implied HN points • 01 Nov 22
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Doing something small every day can lead to big changes over time. Just like writing a page a day can add up to a whole chapter or even a novel.
  2. Focusing on daily progress is easier than thinking about long-term goals. Trying to do a little each day keeps you grounded and motivated.
  3. Don't be afraid to start small and accept that being bad at something is part of getting better. The key is to practice regularly and enjoy the process.

When the Phone Stops Ringing

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1159 implied HN points • 22 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Living in New York and having a supportive partner has made life very fulfilling. Enjoying a successful music career is something to be grateful for.
  2. Having muscular dystrophy changed life dramatically, but it also taught important lessons about resilience and asking for help. It's a journey that forced personal growth.
  3. The wheelchair experience has made interactions with others deeper and more empathetic. It highlighted the importance of valuing what you have and understanding different perspectives.

'Moonstruck' Creator Dies

Daily Dreher • 1061 implied HN points • 22 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. The creator of 'Moonstruck,' filmmaker Norman Jewison, has passed away.
  2. The article discusses various topics including Feds defending invasion and Black Magic's Reality.
  3. Read more by subscribing to Rod Dreher's Diary for a 7-day free trial.

My Friend Max

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2624 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art
  1. Max was a unique and thoughtful person who had a passion for living life to the fullest. He was obsessed with exploring new places and tried new adventures often.
  2. He valued the concept of 'value' in various forms, whether it was calculating the best meal deals or considering the impact of choices he made in life, like his charitable efforts.
  3. Despite his quirky habits and passions, Max had a deep love for the people in his life. His friendships were authentic, and he left a mark on everyone he met.