In the 21st century, the internet has become something we cannot live without. While the internet has its many benefits, one thing I've noticed is the gradual increase to the exposure of artists. Artists no longer have to display their art to be noticed, but they can show the entire world their art through the click of a button. Here are 10 reasons why the internet has helped the growth of artists:
1) There are many websites and applications that help artists grow.
Over the years, the number of art websites and applications has increased greatly. Instagram, DeviantArt, PicartoTV are just a few examples of websites and apps that allow artists to share their art online and discover other artists as well. In a simple Google search, thousands of art pieces pop up, allowing artists to spread their content.
Through my own experience, I have found some amazing art communities that are incredibly supportive and help artists grow. Take Instagram, for example. Thousands of artists make art accounts and post their art, whether it be traditional (drawn on paper), or digital (drawn on the computer.) People can follow artists for updates on new art. Beginner artists can get inspired by pro artists, fueling their passion to become better.
2) Art clubs and groups provide help and support for learning artists.
Many well-known websites such as Instagram and DeviantArt have art groups and clubs that artists of all skill levels can join. Some have story lines, while others are just slice of life. These fantasy communities have artists create their very own original character and role play as them to interact with others.
These clubs and groups open up a new world of communication, since artists can communicate with other artists. Some clubs teach beginner artists to improve their art, while others go on mystical adventures to defeat evil.
3) Artists can get recognition through social media.
The internet has probably benefited artists the most by giving them more recognition. Nowadays, with a simple search, millions of pieces of work pop out, all styles of art are available. Some artists are famous all over the world and can often get recognition in real life.
4) Artists get paid online through commissions.
The internet is not only good for getting recognition, but also for earning some cash! Many artists have commissions where people can pay a certain price for drawings. Most artists price their drawings due to the level of difficulty and the time it takes (sketches are usually less expensive then full background drawings.)
Most artists get their payment online; it is very easy and fast, and artists can move onto the next customer in no time.
5) Growing artists become inspired and learn from others.
Since there are so many amazing artists over the internet, it is a perfect chance for growing artists to learn. Some pro artists create tutorials and small videos to teach beginning artists to draw certain things (hair, body, etc.)
I know many other beginning artists who can get inspired simply by looking at professional drawings and gaining confidence that they, too, can become that good. Some artists make speed paints, where they videotape themselves drawing digitally and speed it up, so viewers can enjoy and watch the process.
6) Artists can meet through the internet and make friends.
The internet is a great place for making friends, and it's even easier when you have common hobbies. Artists will meet artists through similar art, art groups, or just by being a fan of each other's art. In fact, many people saying that they have more art friends online than friends in real life.
A benefit of having friends online is that they don't know anything about you (unless you choose to reveal something.) They don't know what you look like, who you are, what you do, and therefore, they won't judge you. All they care about is your art and their art, nothing else matters.
7) People all over the world can get together to create art.
The internet has allowed opportunities for artists ALL over the world to get together and make art. There are many websites that allow multiple people to draw at the same time, on the same canvas (digitally).
Most artists, however, do something called "collaboration art" or "collabs" for short. This is where artists get together and each draw a part of the drawing (sketch, line art, coloring, etc.) They can do multiple drawings where roles are reversed for more creativity.
Just the thought of having artists from opposite ends of the world coming together to create a masterpiece is astonishing!
8) Artists can show others how they create art in real time through live streams.
Live streams are something of the 21st century, and they really have expanded viewer's idea of artists. In the past it was rare to see how artists drew, and was only available if they made art at festivals, etc.
Now, however, with live streams, people can watch artists create art in real time and watch how they struggle to perfect their pieces. Examples of such websites include join.me and PicartoTV.
9) The internet has provided a fun and welcome community for all artists.
The internet is a wonderful place that has made artists feel welcome, no matter the age or skill level. While people are judged in the real world, there is little to no judgement in the art community.
People are kind to each other on the internet and help out in times of need. I have personal experience with this as I too have received lots of support and encouragement from other artists.
10) Artists experience another world on the internet.
And most importantly, artists get to experience another world on the internet. They get to immerse themselves in the wonders and imagination of art and enjoy that excitement with others.
These ten ways are only a small part of how the internet has nurtured the growth of artists in the 21st century! Thanks to the internet, artists have expanded their horizons and gained great popularity.
