Moving My Blog and Newsletter to Substack?
I’ve been considering this for quite a long while, having learned a little of how Substack has grown and offers community growth for artists, authors and more. I’m told it feels more like social media used to feel.
I figure this is worth a try.
It’s tough out there on socials these days. It requires high energy output - “content creation” on a level of professionalism and volume - that demands more of me than I actually have to give.
I live with a chronic illness or two that profoundly affect my daily energy. Have you heard of spoon theory? Its worth looking up so you can get a picture of what energy management is like for folks who have chronic illness.
It takes enough out of me to be creative - to express that creative drive in a regular high quality way. In fact, the whole online selling thing is utterly overwhelming to me at times. Yes, I need to sell my work. I need to do more than pay for materials, website, email provider, etc etc. I have mouths to feed, a disabled daughter to provide for (alongside my hard working husband) and God willing, develop an income with and for her that will outlive me.
There simply isn’t enough energy left to play the games demanded by the social media algorithms. You know, those rhythms that capriciously change and have zero regard for the artists on the platforms. Its virtually enslavement. And I’m truly over it.
This all being said its a bit intimidating to start on the platform where i might be seen. I’ve become rather accustomed to not being seen. In fact i’m much more comfortable as a wall flower which is a bit silly I suppose.
Yet it just doesn’t move the needle in the necessary ways.
I’m also interested in growing a relationship with a gallery and shop this year.
I’ve followed Bonnie Christine for a while now and find her so encouraging. She often signs off her podcast with an exhortation to make the work we want to see come alive in the world.
I’ve been thinking about this a lot and trying to figure out what this means to me. I’m planning on sailing into this blue ocean and seeing what comes from the journey.
I’m looking forward to this adventure and sharing it will be somewhat intimidating but…here goes!
