Why Social Media Feels Like a Marathon for Artists

Social media is supposed to be a tool for artists to share their work with the world. But these days, it just feels like a race that never ends. You’re not just an artist anymore – you’re a photographer, videographer, editor, caption writer, and social media manager. And if you’re not posting daily? Good luck getting the algorithm’s attention!

If you’ve ever wondered, “Is this really what it takes to share my art?” – you’re not alone.

The Challenge of a Social Media Marathon

Social media algorithms prioritize content that keeps users engaged. This means that artists are encouraged to create more posts, videos, and stories just to keep up. As artists, we’re expected to not only create but also document every step of the process.

Think about it: should I really have to film myself working on a new piece while explaining my technique in real-time? Sometimes it feels like being an artist isn’t enough – you also have to be a content creator.

Why Social Media Punishes Inconsistency

Believe me, I’ve been there. On and off with my clay through the years, stepping away from socials for months at a time. And every time I came back, I felt like I was being “punished.” My posts got buried, engagement plummeted, and even my most loyal followers didn’t see my work.

Now, I’ve fully committed myself to my creations, my website, and – yes – the algorithm. I’ve decided to beat it. But let me tell you, it’s hard. Very hard.

For example, when I created my Daisy Flowerette Necklace, I knew it wasn’t enough to just take a beautiful photo. I had to think about how to capture the process in a way that engaged people, whether through Reels, Stories, or posts.

I see things getting better lately, but it feels like a duel: me vs. the algorithm. From morning to night, I’m thinking, planning, and strategizing – when to post, what to share, how to reach people. Who’s going to win? I’ll let you know the result.

Are We Artists or Content Machines?

Social media platforms are transforming artists into content machines. The pressure to produce endless photos, videos and captions leaves little time for what we actually love doing: creating art. When was the last time you felt free to experiment or take a break without worrying about disappearing from your followers’ feeds?

The irony? The more time we spend creating for social media, the less time we have to make the very art we’re trying to share. It’s an exhausting cycle that leaves many of us burned out and questioning if it’s even worth it.

Balancing Art and Algorithms

So, how do we navigate this madness? While we may not have control over social media algorithms, we do have control over how we approach them. Here are a few things I’ve noticed that help keep me sane:

Consistency Helps – But It’s Exhausting

It’s true that posting regularly helps, but let’s be honest – it’s not always realistic. Some days, I just don’t have it in me, and that’s okay.

Simple Videos Work Wonders

Reels and TikToks don’t have to be elaborate. A quick clip of my work-in-progress or a behind-the-scenes moment has made a difference.

Don’t Take the Algorithm Personally

When engagement is low, it’s easy to think, “Does no one like my work anymore?” But I remind myself that the algorithm isn’t about my art – it’s just a machine.

Finding Joy in the Chaos

I’m still figuring it all out, but one thing I know for sure – creating and sharing art should feel good, not stressful. So, I’m trying to focus more on what I love doing and less on what the algorithm expects from me. Hopefully, I’ll keep finding that balance (and maybe even win this duel with social media :).

Follow me on TikTok and Instagram to see how I’m navigating the world of social media – one creation at a time.