The Power of Insta.
I’ve learned over the years that I like to control things—maybe a little too much. And because of that, I’ve never been a huge fan of handing everything over to social media. I strongly believe every artist should have a website they own and a mailing list they nurture consistently.
But the real question is: How do you grow that list?
This is where Instagram truly shines. Think of it as a mini-website with a powerful built-in search engine fueled by hashtags. It’s visual, intuitive, and an easy way to let people see who you are, what you create, and how you work. It gives you space to build relationships and let people genuinely get to know you.
Instagram also gives you direct access to other artists, galleries, curators, and workshops. You can search any topic with hashtags, discover inspiration, comment on posts, and begin conversations simply because someone’s work resonates with you.
And ultimately, it allows you to drive people to your website, grow your mailing list, and even make sales directly from the platform.
For visual artists, it’s kind of a no-brainer.
Here are a few simple tips to help you get started—or refine what you’re already doing:
- Switch to a Business account so you can link your website, access insights, and auto-share to your Facebook page
- Study accounts you admire and take note of what makes their feeds engaging
- Treat hashtags as your best discovery tool—people follow the ones that interest them
- Comment on other posts; being social matters
- Stay active in the first 15 minutes after posting—engagement here boosts your visibility
- Use videos, carousels, and thoughtful captions to keep people on your post longer
- Curate your feed like you curate your art—invite people into a visual story
- Learn the difference between Stories, Reels, IGTV, and Highlights to expand your reach
- Most importantly, do what feels comfortable—if it becomes a burden, you won’t keep up
If you want to connect with me there, you’ll find me at @clare_oneill_artist. I’d love to see what you’re creating.
What has been your experience with Instagram….both good and bad? Would love to hear from you in the comments below.
Be well….be creative,
Click to learn more about photo encaustic classes, courses, and workshops.
Thank you Clare, excellent blog on Insta, you could do a mini class on helping people get set up :), I would sign up!! Your Instagram page is very well done. On your first tip you mentioned to set up a Business Account, they offer two types 1) Creator 2) Business. Which account did you set up?
Thank you Clare for all you do!
Marla
I have a business account. It’s hard to really tell the difference behind the two of them. But I had the business account set up before they rolled out Creator accounts:) They function very similarly though.
Exactly like you, I’m not a fan of the social media platforms, but Instagram is the one I sometimes like to explore, and your blog is really excellent! I tell you right now: in case you decide to do a class as Marla Acton just proposed, I would join you for sure!!
Well then….maybe I should put something together:) Let me think about what that might look like. So glad you like my blog! Thanks for the kind words.