Why I am choosing to blog instead of using social media

    Hello! Welcome to my first blog post. With this blog I plan on regularly sharing my progress in developing my artistic ability. You may be wondering, "Why on Earth is she choosing to blog instead of post on social media?" Well, I have a few reasons.

    For the past 5 years or so I have been using social media to share my art. In this time I have noticed that the anxiety around getting followers has hindered my artistic process and has encouraged a mindset that caters more to the algorithim and less to developing as an artist. I have noticed that often I will draw more of what I think others would like to see and less of what I would like to see. I think that because of this my growth has been stunted. Although I think that social media can do an excellent job of elevating an artist, I have found that it can be toxic and unhelpful for a developing artist.

    So, this explains the disconnecting from social media. But, it doesn't quite explain the reason for a blog! So, here's the thing: I still love sharing what I am doing with others and I don't like being closed off from others. To me, the blog format feels more freeing. I am able to post what I think is valuable to share and there isn't an expectation for it to be seen by everyone. It is there, but the goal of it isn't to further my following but to simply document what I have been doing.

    Maybe someday I will join social media again, but for now, I am happy to try this blog out and see how it goes. If you wish to keep in touch, feel free to check out this blog from time to time!