5 Social Media Platforms For Artists

Long before the internet, artists honed their craft by gathering in artist communes. By being around other people passionate about art, they could get valuable critiques, receive encouragement to work every day, and find an appropriate audience for their work. While that technique helped form some of the greatest artists of their era, not every creative type can afford to pack up and live with a group of other free-thinking artists for a few months.

Today, the communal artist experience can be simulated online. Social networks that cater specially to painters, poets, and photographers give creative people a way to show off and get input on their creations.

If you want to use social media to boost your skills and connect with other artists sign up on one of these five social networks.

1) Myspace

The old school social network recently underwent a serious overhaul, and it’s more artist-friendly than it was before. Even world famous artists like Sophie Calle and large online companies like Instant Checkmate have accounts.

When you sign up, you get to choose what sort of account you want (for example: DJ, Artist, Filmmaker.) That allows you identify yourself to other users, upload your work and share it with other people on the site. If you want to spread the word about your work, make lots of “connections” to get a wide audience for your creations.

2) DeviantArt

Launched in 2000, DeviantArt is one of the oldest online art communities still around. There’s an enthusiastic and active community of photographers, painters, digital artists, cosplayers, filmmakers, and animators. The site also hosts art contests sponsored by big name companies where artists can win cash, prizes, and even trips.

3) ArtBistro

Ready to take your career as an artist seriously? Then ArtBistro should be your go-to social network. The network, which is run by the employment company Monster.com, gives you advice on how to build your portfolio and connects you to companies who want to hire creatives. You also connect with other artsy employment seekers for job hunting advice and tips on leads.

4) Artslant

If you think you’re ready to start making connections in the art world, then put your work up on Artslant. You can create a profile and a slideshow of your best work. Artwork is exhibited in online art shows, which are seen by art buyers from all over the country. If you want to make the most of your opportunity, be sure to fill out your bio completely and add relevant tags to your artwork. Images that don’t include tags aren’t featured in the art shows.

5) Artrise

Artrise is a social network still in its beta phase, but it may become a major part of the online art world. It provides budding artists with easy tools to build an online portfolio and network with other artists, gallery owners, and art lovers from all over the world. The site frequently posts jobs and calls for entry so you can always take advantage of an opportunity to take your career to the next level.