Let's Talk About Instagram Engagement For Artists (It's Not About How Good Your Art Is)

I want to talk about Instagram engagement specifically for artists because I know that it's really easy for us to associate our worth as artists with how our posts perform on social media.

The lovely artists that I feature in this video:

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A big thank you to my partner for filming and editing this video!

[MimimooIllustration]

Let us know how you feel about being on Instagram as an artist - it's always nice to know that we're not alone! 🌷

[NalaShore]

For the first time, one of my reels reached 1 million views… it’s a quick ASMR unboxing of watercolors. The reels I spend hourS making where I am painting don’t get more than a few hundreds of views… A clear example of how it’s no longer about the quality of the content 😅

[RooNelo]

I’m rarely active on Instagram, but the few times I do post, I’m always surprised by who interacts with it. Most of them have followed me for years, and it sort of feels nice knowing a few stick around regardless of how often I share work. Definitely helps me go at my own healthy pace.

[krispjeanseamz]

This is such an important thing to remember, especially as a starting artist. Thanks so much for your perspective on this! It's so nice to hear it from others, even though deep down I know the algorithm isn't a measure of worth. I find using Instagram as more of a public scrapbook of sorts helps; a way to connect and commemorate my journey. What happens with analytics is irrelevant 😊 thanks, Mimi!!

[JustPeachies]

I got art block and stopped posting to Instagram for over a year, I find it very stressful. I wish there was a way to post the things I love without the stress of figuring out an algorithm. I probably won't be the illustrator I thought I'd be because of it :(

[eterno]

So encouraging! I have 120 followers only but in reality about 10 of them interact with me.

[estebanhenriquez]

I genuinely love the positive aura and consistent character you exude throughout your videos. Furthermore, I appreciate your challenge to us creatives to “take it easy” and “keep on keeping on”. Anytime discouragement comes, I tune in to Mimoo Illustrations!

[amydillardGypsySoul]

I just love how positive and nurturing your channel is! Thanks for paying it forward now that you have become so successful.

[merviart]

These are great points. This is why I try to at least like most if not all the posts I see on my Insta feed.

Also in many ways these apply to other platforms such as YouTube as well. YouTube doesn’t really care if you make good videos, as long as they gain engagement (and dislikes are counted as engagement) and, especially, views.

[olwynnsay]

I have seen so many videos of artists leaving Instagram due to having such a negative experience with it. I hate algorithms as this is just such an alien set up to me.

[Christinekueblerartist]

The best artists I know have the most dismal numbers. It’s good to post and put yourself out there, but don’t rely on it. Get your work out there in the real world. There’s plenty of opportunity.

[ChantelleArts]

This is a really important point, It's also why sometimes the most random videos go viral ❤

[vanessakaliwo]

I really enjoyed this video Mimi! It was so insightful and the production quality was excellent!! Thanks for sharing your work with us, it's truly inspiring!

[caylajaninelewis]

Loving all of the content! I always leave your videos feeling so inspired 🥰🥰

[rebeccasartcorner]

Can I just say that it’s always nice to come to your channel because it feels like you’re one of very few who doesn’t use an iPad with procreate. I want to get into digital art and seeing you work reminds me that I don’t need a iPad in order to do so. It’s not that I dislike iPads it’s just that they are crazy expensive where I live and costs as much as a computer that can handle video editing, digital art etc. And I soon need one of those as well.

If anyone have other artists to recommend that doesn’t use an iPad for their digital work, I would really appreciate the inspiration and motivation😊

[fionaduplessis]

Hi Mimi, thank you so much for this video. I really enjoyed this and really needed it. Consistency is key and the believe in ourselves. Can't wait for your next video :)😃

[MissZXXY]

Thank you so much for this video, you taught me a completely new perspective about the platform, that is really going to help me in the future😊 Love your art and your energy!

[okidokidraws]

I still fallow elementary school rules to make my teachers and mom, grandma proud. I think of the remember when your out and a bout your representing your school.

[rainboy_color]

This really puts things into perspective! Thank you for sharing your insight 🙏

[lizamccarthy]

As an artist this was super encouraging and helpful. Thank you so much for motivating me to continue to work on my art and my YouTube channel 💗💓. I know I can be able to get to my goal sometime the more I keep working towards it, and improve my skills while doing so. Again Thank you so much, your videos are the highlight of my day 💖💖💖