Creating art: In this economy?!

Creating Art in Today’s Economy: Finding Value in What Matters

In today’s economy, where everything seems to be driven by fast-paced consumerism and ever-changing trends, making art can sometimes feel like a challenge. The pressure to sell, to follow the crowd, or to create works that will appeal to the masses is constant. But as an artist, I’ve learned to embrace the truth that, despite the external pressures, the value of art lies in something much deeper than financial transactions or fleeting popularity.

Art as Expression

Art has always been about expression—an honest, raw reflection of the world as I see it, and a way of communicating emotions and stories that go beyond words. In today’s economy, where instant gratification often rules, it’s easy for the true purpose of art to be lost. But I’ve chosen to focus on creating pieces that matter to me, staying true to my voice and not succumbing to the pressure of chasing trends or commercial success.

When I paint, it’s not about what’s popular or what will sell—it’s about creating something that feels true to who I am at that moment. This commitment to authenticity means I don’t always have the immediate success that can come with following trends, but I believe it’s the long-lasting connection that really matters. When people connect with my work, they don’t just see a painting; they see something honest and real—a piece of myself that resonates with them in a way that goes beyond the price tag.

The Importance of Community Over Transaction

In today’s world, the transaction is often the focus. We’ve become accustomed to thinking of art as something that is bought and sold, and the financial exchange can sometimes overshadow the deeper meaning behind the work. But for me, the true reward of creating art comes from the conversations it sparks, the connections it creates, and the community it builds.

As I’ve shared my art with others, I’ve come to realise that it’s not about who buys it or how much they pay—it’s about how the work makes people feel. The people who appreciate my art, the ones who see value in what I do, are the ones who truly understand the essence of what I’m creating. These connections, whether through social media, exhibitions, or simply word of mouth, are more valuable to me than any financial transaction.

The Role of Technology and Social Media

Technology and social media play an undeniable role in today’s art world. While they can help to build a platform for artists, there’s also a temptation to get caught up in the numbers—the likes, the followers, the shares. But for me, the beauty of social media isn’t in the superficial metrics; it’s in the ability to connect with people who genuinely care about art, who appreciate the story behind each piece, and who are willing to engage in meaningful conversations about creativity.

In many ways, social media has democratized the art world. It has given artists like me the opportunity to share our work without needing to rely on traditional gatekeepers like galleries or critics. It’s a tool, and like any tool, its power lies in how it’s used. Instead of seeing social media as a platform for validation, I’ve learned to use it as a space for sharing my artistic journey, for showing the behind-the-scenes of my process, and for connecting with people who share a genuine love for art.

Creating Without Fear of Failure

One of the greatest challenges of being an artist in today’s economy is the fear of failure. With the pressure to make a living, meet deadlines, and stay relevant, it can be easy to let self-doubt creep in. But I’ve come to understand that failure is part of the process. It’s through mistakes and experiments that I find my true voice as an artist.

If I create solely with the intention of making money or pleasing others, the work loses its meaning. Instead, I’ve chosen to embrace the ebb and flow of my creative journey. There will be highs and lows, and not every piece will be a success—but that’s okay. The most important thing is that I continue creating and staying true to my artistic vision, no matter what.

The Value Beyond the Price Tag

In an economy that often defines value by financial success, I’ve come to realise that the true worth of my art lies in its ability to make an impact—whether it’s sparking a thought, evoking an emotion, or connecting with someone on a deeper level. My work is not for everyone, and that’s perfectly fine. The people who resonate with my art, who understand what I’m trying to express, are the ones who will find its true value.

In today’s economy, where the hustle is real and the pressure is constant, I’m choosing to focus on creating work that matters—not just for the market, but for me. I’m choosing to embrace the long, slow journey of creating art that’s authentic, meaningful, and connected to the deeper parts of myself.

Final Thoughts

Making art in today’s economy is not without its challenges, but it’s also full of opportunities. I believe the most important thing is to remain authentic and true to your own voice. Art isn’t just about what it’s worth in financial terms—it’s about the connections it fosters, the emotions it stirs, and the stories it tells. If we can focus on these things, we can navigate the complexities of today’s economy without losing sight of what really matters.

If you’d like to learn more about my creative process or see my latest work, feel free to reach out or check out the rest of my website.

.M.

Be real.

Make art.