Art News -

Q: What is the street art movement, and how does it relate to graffiti?

The street art movement is a visual art form created in public spaces. It encompasses techniques like murals, stencils, wheatpaste, installations, and graffiti. Graffiti is one of the street art movement's original and most influential styles, often focused on stylised lettering and tags. While the street art movement now includes a broader range of materials and messages, graffiti remains its cultural and creative foundation.

Q: How did the street art movement evolve from vandalism to gallery exhibitions?

The street art movement began as a form of rebellious urban expression, often viewed as vandalism. Over time, prominent artists like Banksy and Jean-Michel Basquiat helped elevate its status by blending raw street visuals with powerful social commentary. Today, the street art movement is showcased in galleries and museums, recognised for its cultural impact and artistic innovation.

Q: Who are some of the most influential artists in the street art movement?

Notable artists in the street art movement include Banksy – known for satirical and political stencil work, Shepard Fairey – creator of the 'Obey' campaign and Obama's 'Hope' poster, and Jean-Michel Basquiat, who transitioned from graffiti to fine art. Emerging artists worldwide continue to shape the street art movement using digital tools, mixed media, and AR.

Q: What are the main types within the street art movement?

Popular forms within the street art movement include graffiti – expressive, letter-based art; stencils – repeatable, detailed images; murals – large-scale storytelling on walls; wheatpaste – poster art that's fast and ephemeral; and 3D Street Art – illusion-based designs that engage viewers interactively. Each style adds to the street art movement's diversity and innovation.

Q: Why is the street art movement important in today's culture?

The street art movement reflects social issues, challenges norms, and reclaims public space as a canvas for dialogue. It connects communities, makes art accessible, and brings attention to inequality, climate change, and identity. Its power lies in being both disruptive and unifying.

Q: Can works from the street art movement be preserved, or are they meant to be temporary?

While some pieces from the street art movement are preserved or recreated, much of it is inherently ephemeral. Weather, city development, and its public nature mean it often fades or is removed. This impermanence adds value, capturing a moment and highlighting art's fleeting beauty within the street art movement.

January 13, 2026January 13, 2026

Exploring the Rise of Digital Art : A Contemporary Revolution

The artistic landscape has entered a transformative era where creativity and technology converge in unprecedented ways. As we move through 2026, the rise of digital art continues to reshape how we create, experience, and value artistic expression. This evolution represents more than a technological shift – it marks a fundamental reimagining of what art can be and who can create it.

In contrast to the classical media that have long defined artistic achievement, digital art represents a dynamic fusion of innovation and creativity. As we navigate this digital renaissance, we witness the emergence of a new frontier where artists leverage algorithms, virtual reality, and other cutting-edge tools to shape their visions.

This transformative shift redefines the artistic landscape and challenges our perception of what art can be. It invites us to explore the intersection of technology and creativity, pushing the boundaries of conventional expression.

As we embrace the era of digital art, we embark on a journey that extends beyond paint and canvas into the virtual realm. This is a testament to the ever-evolving nature of human creativity, where the fusion of art and technology gives rise to a captivating tapestry of innovation.

As we explore the rise of digital art in 2026, we witness an exciting tension between perfection and imperfection, between the algorithmic and the handmade, between the global and the deeply personal. This is art that responds to our moment – addressing digital fatigue, celebrating visible craftsmanship, and pushing boundaries while honouring tradition. Let’s dive into how these dynamics are shaping the creative landscape today.

The Rise of Digital Art: Understanding the Medium

Digital art encompasses creative works produced using computers, tablets, and specialised software as primary tools. In 2026, this definition has expanded to include AI-collaborative practices, blockchain-verified creations, and immersive experiences that blur the boundaries between viewer and artwork.

Artists now have access to more accessible 3D applications, many browser-based, including tools like Womp and Adobe’s Project Neo, making sophisticated techniques available to creators at all skill levels. The rise of digital art has fundamentally altered not just the creation process but also how audiences discover, engage with, and collect artwork.

Contemporary digital artists benefit from unprecedented creative freedom. They can experiment without the constraints of physical materials, iterate rapidly, and explore techniques that would be impossible in traditional media. Online platforms have democratised art viewing, enabling global audiences to engage with works instantly. This phenomenon – the rise of digital art – signifies a dynamic shift in both artistic process and cultural reach.

The Rise of Digital Art: Exploring Different Forms and 2026 Trends

We embark on a journey to explore different digital art forms. We’ll uncover the diverse and innovative expressions crafted by artists using digital tools and technologies.

1. The Rise of Digital Art: Digital Paintings

Digital painting remains a cornerstone of the rise of digital art, but by 2026, it has evolved significantly in both practice and possibility. Artists continue to use sophisticated software like Adobe Photoshop, Procreate, and Corel Painter, but the approach has shifted.

Digital Painting: A New Canvas

Unlike traditional painting with brushes and physical canvases, digital artists employ specialised tools and technology on a computer or tablet to craft stunning and innovative works of art.

In digital painting, artists use software and tools that imitate traditional painting techniques. These tools allow them to create brush strokes, blend colours, and draw like with real paint on a digital canvas.

1. Tools and Technology for Digital Art

Modern digital artists work with graphic tablets, stylus pens, and increasingly accessible software that provides extensive brush libraries, colour palettes, and effects. These tools make creating detailed, intricate artwork more intuitive than ever.

The 2026 Shift: Authenticity Over Perfection

In 2026, digital art trends emphasise authenticity and sincerity over technical perfection. Rather than showcasing flawless execution, artists increasingly embrace imperfections that signal human authorship. This shift responds directly to the proliferation of AI-generated imagery, with audiences craving work that unmistakably reveals “a human was here.”

Naïve Design and Intentional Imperfection

Naïve Design has emerged as a popular trend, embracing simplicity and childlike playfulness with basic geometric shapes and intentionally imperfect execution. This style prioritises expression and emotion over technical precision, creating work that feels authentic, warm, and deeply human in an age of algorithmic polish.

2. Benefits of Digital Painting

Digital painting offers unmatched flexibility – mistakes can be corrected without damaging the original, colours are unlimited, and artists can work anywhere. The learning curve is more approachable for newcomers, and the medium encourages experimentation without fear of wasting expensive materials.

Digital painting doesn’t replace traditional techniques; it offers complementary possibilities. It allows artists to explore their imagination in new dimensions while maintaining the creative essence that defines all meaningful art.

2. The Rise of Digital Art: Virtual Reality (VR) Art

Virtual reality art has matured significantly by 2026, offering immersive experiences where viewers enter paintings or interact with three-dimensional worlds. This innovative approach transforms passive observation into active participation, making it a key element of digital art’s rise.

Virtual Reality: An Immersive Chapter in the Rise of Digital Art

Virtual Reality (VR) art transcends the confines of traditional screens, providing an immersive experience where participants can step inside paintings or entirely new worlds. Fully immersive simulations give users the most realistic simulation experience, complete with sight and sound. To experience and interact with fully immersive virtual reality, the user needs proper VR glasses or a head mount display (HMD). Artists harness the potential of VR technology to sculpt three-dimensional art, allowing viewers to explore and engage with art in unprecedented ways. This innovative approach reshapes the artistic landscape, offering a dynamic canvas for creators and a novel, enriching experience for art enthusiasts.

1. Transforming the Artistic Experience with VR Technology

VR technology empowers artists to construct entire 3D worlds that viewers can explore. Artists like Chris Milk create interactive narratives where participants don’t just observe – they become integral elements of the artistic experience. Artists have used Google’s Tilt Brush VR painting tool to paint in three-dimensional space, even creating works that were exhibited at the Royal Academy of Arts in London, demonstrating how immersive VR art can transform traditional creative practices.

2. Showcasing the Interactive Aspects of VR Art

The dynamic nature of VR art brings unprecedented engagement. Viewers can touch, move, and sometimes alter artworks, fostering profound and personalised connections. “The Night Cafe” by Borrowed Light Studios offers an immersive experience where visitors virtually explore and interact with a Van Gogh painting, transforming observation into a participatory journey. Similar immersive Van Gogh exhibitions using cutting-edge projection and interactive technology have been staged across the UK, bringing iconic works to life through digital art experiences.

In 2026, immersive art has evolved from novelty to necessity, with multi-sensory exhibitions engaging audiences through projection, sound, and interaction, turning spaces into emotional journeys that dissolve boundaries between observer and artwork.

3. The Rise of Digital Art: NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens)

NFTs continue to play a significant role in the rise of digital art, though the market has matured considerably since the initial hype. In 2026, NFTs function as an established digital infrastructure rather than a speculative novelty.

NFTs have revolutionised the art market and challenged conventional perspectives on ownership and value in the digital space. People can buy and own these special digital artworks using NFTs, marking a dynamic shift in the artistic process and how audiences interact with creative expressions. NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) are introducing new possibilities for artists to tokenise and sell their digital creations securely. This convergence of technology and art marks an exciting journey into creativity in the digital age, where the boundaries of traditional art forms are continually pushed and redefined.

NFTs: Transforming Ownership in the Digital Era

Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) function as distinctive certificates or unique stamps, affirming the rarity and individuality of digital artworks. Here’s a deeper look into their role in the art world.

1. Defining NFTs in the Digital Art Market

NFTs are digital certificates stored on blockchain – a secure technology ledger that verifies and records transactions. In art, they prove ownership and authenticity of digital works. Each NFT is unique and cannot be replicated, making the digital art it represents verifiably one-of-a-kind.

2. Revolutionising Ownership and Provenance

NFTs have solved a longstanding challenge in digital art: proving ownership. Before blockchain verification, establishing clear ownership of digital works was nearly impossible. NFTs provide secure, transparent provenance that artists and collectors can trust.

3. Impact on the Value of Digital Art

NFTs have created new revenue streams for digital artists, allowing them to sell work directly and sometimes earn royalties on secondary sales. This infrastructure has added tangible value to digital creations and established sustainable business models for artists working in digital media.

In 2026, NFTs have become a normalised infrastructure in the art world, integrated into galleries, auction houses, and collecting practices as a standard verification method rather than a speculative trend.

4. Commercialisation of Digital Art

One of the most subtle yet impactful trends in 2026 is the rise of micro-animations. These tiny loops – where eyes blink, smoke drifts, or cloth blows naturally – draw readers in and bring covers or pages to life. This technique adds a new layer of engagement without the commitment of full animation.

Artists create these effects using tools like After Effects, Procreate Dreams, Blender, and Rive. Micro-animations work particularly well for web content, digital books, and social media, where they capture attention while maintaining artistic restraint.

5. The 2026 Trend: Ultra-Tactile Craft and Material Experimentation

Paradoxically, as digital tools advance, 2026 has seen a powerful resurgence of tactile, material-focused art. Ultra-Tactile Craft embraces depth, texture, and unexpected materials, with artists using tin, ash, plaster, ceramics, and industrial compounds to create sculptural, heavily textured works.

This trend reflects digital fatigue – audiences craving art that exists in real space and engages multiple senses. Collectors value the visible hand of the artist, celebrating skill, mastery, and the soul infused into every layer. Even in digital spaces, artists simulate these textures, creating work that references physicality and craftsmanship.

6. Hybrid Practices: AI Collaboration and Human Authorship

In 2026, artists are not simply using AI as a tool but exploring hybrid practices that merge logic, emotion, and innovation. Rather than replacing human creativity, AI serves as a collaborative partner – generating variations, suggesting compositions, or handling technical tasks while artists provide vision, curation, and emotional intent.

This approach challenges traditional notions of originality while celebrating the fusion of intuition and technology. The most compelling work clearly demonstrates human authorship – curated, refined, and imbued with artistic intention that distinguishes it from purely algorithmic output.

7. Accessible 3D Tools Democratise Complex Creation

More accessible 3D applications, including browser-based tools and free software like Substance 3D, are emerging for 2D artists. This democratisation means artists who traditionally worked in illustration or painting can now incorporate three-dimensional elements without expensive software or extensive technical training.

Concept artists increasingly build scenes in 3D and paint over them, especially when working with complex perspectives or multiple viewing angles. This hybrid approach accelerates workflows while maintaining artistic control and individual style.

8. Distorted Portraiture and Surreal Minimalism

Distorted Portrait Design is trending in 2026 as artists seek to escape the “polished but predictable” look, creating expressive, human, and subversive work that stands apart from AI-generated imagery. These portraits tell deeper stories and connect with audiences craving authenticity and emotional impact.

Meanwhile, Surreal Minimalism combines clean, minimalist design with single, bold, dreamlike elements – impossible materials, elongated shadows, or floating objects used as emotional hooks. This trend thrives in digital spaces where it can leverage screen-native colours like electric aqua, coral, and glowing lilac.

9. Retro Revival and Heritage Design

A move toward classic branding has become noticeable, with companies revisiting retro aesthetics and blending nostalgia with modern clarity. This return to heritage design reflects audiences’ craving for stability and authenticity. In digital art, this manifests as references to pixel art, early computer graphics, vintage printing techniques, and analogue aesthetics that feel warm and familiar.

10. Maximalism, Emotional Directness, and Neo-Expressionism

Maximalism, kitsch, and nostalgia are everywhere in 2026, all pointing to a desire for authentic and immediate connection. After decades of conceptual complexity, audiences want art that communicates directly – work that is joyful, accessible, and unapologetically earnest.

This trend often evokes childhood, folk art traditions, and pre-digital visual language. Artists reference Neo-Expressionism and illustration traditions, creating simplified figures and landscapes that prioritise feeling over technical sophistication.

11. Commercialisation of Digital Art

NFTs have opened new doors for artists to sell and make a living from their digital art. This form of ownership adds value to these pieces and establishes a new avenue for digital artists to monetise their creations. Artists leverage NFTs to sell digital fragments in a manner akin to traditional art transactions, providing them with a direct and often lucrative revenue stream.

NFTs are changing the art game, making digital art ownership clear and valuable. It’s a unique way to bring digital art into the hands of collectors and enthusiasts, allowing them to own and cherish their favourite pieces.

Tech-Infused Artistry: Reshaping the Creative Horizon

Technology continues transforming the art world, but in 2026, the relationship has become more nuanced. Digital tools expand creative possibilities while artists deliberately incorporate “analogue” elements – imperfections, textures, and handmade qualities – even in purely digital work.

1. Changing Dynamics in the Art World

Technology has fundamentally altered how art is produced, shared, and perceived. Digital tools provide unprecedented access, expanding creative horizons for artists at all experience levels. This democratisation has introduced novel art forms while challenging traditional boundaries and hierarchies.

Beyond creation, technology changes how we interact with art, offering immersive experiences and global accessibility that redefine our understanding of artistic engagement.

2. Democratisation of Art Through Digital Platforms

Digital platforms have revolutionised art accessibility. Artists share work globally through online galleries and social media, reaching audiences that would have been impossible to access through traditional channels. These platforms have broken down barriers to entry, giving emerging artists visibility and opportunities previously reserved for those with gallery representation.

3. The Relationship between Technology, Digital Art, and Engagement

Technology affects not just creation but engagement. Digital art offers interactive experiences where audiences participate, comment, and sometimes contribute. Art becomes a conversation rather than one-way observation, fostering communities and dialogues around creative work.

4. Colour Trends: Earth Tones and Electric Palettes

In 2026, colour trends reflect a shift towards grounding and sensory balance. Rich earth tones-such as warm ochre, burnt terracotta, moss green, and clay red- are increasingly used to offset the intensity of screen-led, always-on digital experiences. In contrast, Pantone’s 2026 Colour of the Year, Cloud Dancer, introduces a soft off-white that anchors lighter, desaturated pastel palettes, signalling a parallel desire for calm, clarity, and visual restraint within digital art and design.

This duality – grounded earth tones and vibrant electric pastels – defines 2026’s signature palette, reflecting our complex present where physical and virtual lives intertwine.

4. A New Era of Art and Creativity

Technology has birthed a new era where art is more inclusive, engaging, and diverse. The art world extends beyond traditional galleries – it’s accessible through screens, VR headsets, and digital platforms. Technology transcends its role as a mere tool; it fundamentally reshapes how we connect with and experience artistic expressions.

The Rise of Digital Art: Looking Toward the Future

The future of creative expression remains closely tied to technological advancement, but 2026 reveals that progress isn’t linear – it’s dialectical. As tools become more sophisticated, the pendulum swings toward valuing visible human presence, emotional authenticity, and imperfect craftsmanship.

1. Trajectory of Digital Art

We anticipate continued fusion of traditional and digital techniques, with artists exploring hybrid approaches that combine conventional methods with cutting-edge tools. The boundaries between “digital” and “traditional” art continue to blur as artists freely move between mediums based on creative need rather than categorical identity.

2. Advancements and New Technologies

Advancements in AI, AR, and VR will continue offering new possibilities. However, 2026 reveals that collectors increasingly value emotional connection over technological novelty, seeking work that resonates personally rather than simply impressing technically.

We expect tools that aid rather than replace the creative process – making art creation more accessible and intuitive while preserving space for human vision, curation, and emotional intelligence.

3. Continuing Influence of Technology

As technology advances, it will continue to be a driving force behind artistic innovation. Technology integration into artistic creation will likely persist, offering new means for artists to express themselves. Expect to encounter art crafted for traditional galleries alongside immersive digital experiences that seamlessly integrate into augmented reality (AR) or virtual reality (VR) environments.

As digital art becomes more mainstream, artists will likely continue to explore uncharted territories. It is poised to become an integral part of our everyday lives, seamlessly woven into our digital experiences rather than confined to specific spaces.

The future of digital art is bound to be an exhilarating journey. With new technologies on the horizon, the boundaries of artistic creation will expand. The future promises a more inclusive, interactive, and diversified artistic realm.

4. Immersive Experiences Become Commonplace

Augmented reality and virtual reality experiences are becoming standard rather than experimental. These technologies enable artists to create environments rather than objects, transforming how audiences encounter and inhabit creative work.

Artists increasingly work at monumental scales to create immersive spaces that fully surround viewers and shape specific emotional atmospheres, transforming entire rooms into unified sensory experiences.

5. The Authenticity Economy

Perhaps the most significant trend shaping the future of digital art is what might be called the “authenticity economy.” As AI-generated content becomes ubiquitous, the most compelling art trends for 2026 reflect a renewed commitment to work that is unmistakably made, marked by intuition, risk, and imperfections that signal authorship.

Collectors and audiences gravitate toward art that carries clear traces of the person who made it – work shaped by impulse, imagination, and presence at a time when authenticity has become its own form of scarcity.

Rise of Digital Art: Conclusion

The emerging realm of digital art has been attributed to integrating innovative technology, marking a notable evolution in how art is crafted and enjoyed.

The future of art promises continuous evolution as technology introduces novel tools and methods. Art will likely transcend traditional gallery spaces, seamlessly integrating into our daily lives through a harmonious blend of conventional and contemporary techniques.

Author Bio

John Sewell

John Sewell is the founder of Cosimo and holds a Master’s Degree in History of Art from the University of Birmingham. He built Cosimo to give emerging artists fair, transparent ways to reach collectors directly. He was also shortlisted for the Great British Entrepreneur Awards. His background in art, creative entrepreneurship and digital marketplaces informs his writing on artist development, accessible art, and the future of online art sales.

January 13, 2026January 13, 2026

Sustainability in Art: Eco-Friendly Practices and Green Initiatives in 2026

Sustainability in Art is becoming increasingly important, especially as more artists turn their creative practices into a reflection of their values. Eco art blends imagination with environmental awareness, showing how recycled materials, non-toxic paints, and mindful techniques can protect the planet while still delivering powerful expression.

In this blog, we delve into the significance of sustainability in art and explore why incorporating eco-friendly elements is of substantial importance to artists in 2026.

Sustainability in Art by Incorporating Sustainable Materials

Artists today are redefining creativity by embracing sustainable materials and methods in their work. Let’s look at how they make a difference by incorporating eco-friendly practices.

A. Artists Utilising Recycled and Upcycled Materials in 2026

Recycled materials encompass items processed and transformed back into raw materials for reuse. In contrast, upcycled materials involve a creative renaissance, breathing new life into discarded items and elevating them into products of higher value or quality. The distinction lies in the transformation process: recycling breaks materials into their essential components while upcycling refines existing materials, crafting something entirely new.

Many artists embrace sustainability by ingeniously repurposing materials that have fulfilled their initial purpose. Through innovative thinking, these artists breathe new life into discarded items such as cardboard, bottles, and fabrics, transcending their original utility to craft visually striking and conceptually rich art pieces. This practice not only showcases the boundless nature of creativity but also serves as a tangible example of how reimagining the use of everyday materials can contribute to a more sustainable and eco-conscious artistic landscape.

B. Use of Eco-Friendly Pigments, Inks, and Paints

In the vibrant world of colours, artists are making environmentally conscious choices by selecting paints and inks crafted from pigments derived from natural sources or non-toxic materials. These materials, mindful of the environment, often originate from natural sources such as botanical extracts, minerals, or certain insects, providing sustainable alternatives to traditional chemical-laden options. By embracing pigments made from plant-based sources or other sustainable alternatives, artists actively contribute to reducing harmful chemicals and promoting a healthier environment.

C. Embracing Sustainable Canvases and Papers

Artists are changing the canvas they paint on and the paper they draw on. Some use materials that come from responsibly managed forests or recycled paper. Others might paint on surfaces like reclaimed wood. This way, they support sustainable resources and show how art can be made without harming the Earth.

Artists’ efforts to use recycled materials, eco-friendly pigments, and sustainable canvases highlight a new way of making art that considers the planet and expresses creativity.

Sustainability in Art: Environmental Awareness in 2026

Art has a powerful voice, and today, many artists are using their creativity to raise awareness about sustainability. Let’s explore how art is becoming a messenger for environmental consciousness.

Art Movements Promoting Sustainability and Environmental Consciousness

Art movements advocating sustainability and environmental consciousness are pivotal in shaping a more responsible artistic landscape. One notable movement is Eco-Art, which emerged in the late 20th century. This movement encourages artists to explore ecological issues and promote environmental sustainability through their work. Artists associated with Eco-Art often use recycled materials, address climate change, and engage with nature in their creations.

Another impactful movement is Land Art, where artists integrate natural elements into their works, often in outdoor landscapes. This allows the environment to become both the canvas and the source of inspiration for artistic expression. Artists usually arrange, sculpt, or otherwise manipulate elements such as rocks, soil, wood, or vegetation to create their artworks harmoniously with nature. The resulting pieces are often temporary, evolving with the natural elements and changing over time. This movement seeks to connect art and the environment, emphasising the interdependence of artistic expression and the natural world. Artists like Andy Goldsworthy and Robert Smithson have left a lasting mark on the movement, using natural materials to create temporary or permanent installations that interact with their surroundings.

These movements inspire change within the artistic community and draw attention to art’s profound impact in fostering environmental awareness. Through their innovative approaches, artists within these movements contribute to a broader cultural shift, emphasising the potential of art as a catalyst for positive change in our relationship with nature.

Impactful Eco-Conscious Installations and Sculptures

Numerous artists are leaving a lasting impact by crafting large-scale, captivating installations and sculptures that prompt contemplation about one’s relationship with nature. One noteworthy example is German artist HA Schult’s “Trash People” installation. Comprising life-sized human figures made entirely from recycled materials, this piece is a powerful visual commentary on the global issue of waste and consumption.

Additionally, sculptures like the “Breathing Pavilion” by artist and architect Michael Jantzen showcase a fusion of art and sustainable design. This innovative installation responds to environmental conditions, expanding and contracting in response to changes in air quality, symbolising the interconnectedness between human activities and the environment.

Exploring the Narrative of Climate Change and Conservation in Art

Narratives surrounding climate change and conservation are gaining prominence in art. Artists leverage their craft to convey urgent messages about the environment. One such approach is visual storytelling, where artists create pieces that narrate the impacts of climate change and the imperative need for conservation efforts.

A notable example is the work of Xavier Cortada, whose art often centres around environmental issues, specifically climate change. Cortada’s “Underwater HOA” project, for instance, involves the creation of art installations at different elevations to visualise the potential rise of sea levels due to climate change. Through such pieces, artists engage viewers in a powerful dialogue about the Earth’s vulnerability and our collective responsibility to protect it.

Furthermore, artists like Zaria Forman employ hyper-realistic drawings to depict the beauty of our planet, with a focus on endangered environments. Through the intricate details of her work, Forman captures the essence of places affected by climate change, acting as a visual advocate for conservation.

These artists use their creativity to showcase the beauty of the Earth and evoke a sense of responsibility in viewers. The narrative they construct through their art is a compelling call to action, encouraging individuals to consider their role in preserving the planet for future generations. In this way, art becomes a powerful medium for education, provoking thought and inspiring change.

Sustainability in Art by Initiatives and Collaborations

In art, collective effort and innovative initiatives are forging the path towards a more sustainable future.

1. Organisations and Platforms Supporting Sustainable Art Practices in 2026

Numerous organisations and platforms actively champion sustainable art practices, supporting artists committed to environmental responsibility. One exemplary platform is the Sustainable Arts Foundation, which focuses explicitly on supporting artists with families. Through grants and resources, this foundation assists artists in realising projects that align with sustainability principles while addressing the unique challenges of balancing artistic pursuits and family life.

Artist-in-residence programs offer creators the vital space and time for creative exploration, often unfolding in environments prioritising ecological conservation. In these settings, artists can delve into sustainable practices, experiment with eco-friendly materials, and seamlessly integrate these considerations into their artistic process. This dedicated focus aligns with a broader environmental ethos, fostering an environment where artists contribute actively to a more eco-conscious artistic landscape. Through this immersive approach, artist-in-residence programs become catalysts for nurturing creativity and environmental responsibility.

Another impactful organisation is the Center for Sustainable Practice in the Arts (CSPA), dedicated to integrating sustainability into the creative process. CSPA facilitates dialogues, offers resources, and recognises sustainable practices within the arts community. Their initiatives range from promoting eco-friendly production methods to fostering a broader understanding of sustainability in artistic endeavours.

These platforms are pivotal in fostering a community that values and encourages sustainable art. By offering financial support, resources, and exhibition opportunities, they empower artists to create impactful work and contribute to a broader conversation on the intersection of art and environmental responsibility.

2. Collaborative Projects Focusing on Environmental Issues

Artists often team up to work on projects centred around environmental concerns. These collaborations produce impactful pieces illuminating climate change, pollution, or biodiversity loss. Through joint efforts, artists convey powerful messages, aiming to inspire action and awareness in the community.

Emerging Sustainable Art Practices in 2026

As we progress through 2026, new sustainable practices are transforming the art world:

1. Digital and NFT Sustainability

Artists are increasingly adopting energy-efficient blockchain technologies for digital art and NFTs, moving away from energy-intensive proof-of-work systems to more sustainable proof-of-stake alternatives. This shift addresses previous environmental concerns while maintaining the benefits of digital art ownership.

2. Bio-Art and Living Materials

A growing number of artists are experimenting with living materials such as mycelium, bacteria, and algae to create artworks that are not only sustainable but also biodegradable. These bio-based materials offer revolutionary approaches to sculpture and installation art, where the artwork itself becomes part of natural cycles.

3. Carbon-Neutral Studios and Exhibitions

Art studios and galleries in 2026 are implementing carbon-neutral practices, including solar power installations, LED lighting, and sustainable HVAC systems. Many institutions now calculate and offset the carbon footprint of exhibitions, setting new standards for environmental responsibility in the art world.

4. AI-Assisted Sustainable Design

Artificial intelligence tools are helping artists optimise material usage, predict the environmental impact of their projects, and discover innovative, sustainable alternatives. This technology enables artists to make more informed decisions about their creative processes while minimising waste.

Challenges and Innovations in Sustainability in Art

Adopting sustainable art practices comes with its challenges and opportunities for innovation.

Obstacles Faced in Adopting Sustainable Art Practices

Traditional art processes often involve materials and techniques that may not align with environmentally conscious practices. Traditional pigments and solvents can be derived from non-renewable resources or contain harmful chemicals. The challenge is to find sustainable alternatives that maintain the quality and longevity of the artwork while minimising environmental impact.

Artists also encounter issues related to the availability and cost of eco-friendly materials and the need for more awareness or acceptance of these practices within the art community. This necessitates reevaluating established artistic methods and a willingness to explore innovative approaches that prioritise artistic integrity and ecological responsibility.

Innovations and Technological Advancements in Eco-Friendly Art

The art world is witnessing exciting innovations in technology and materials that are environmentally friendly. From developing biodegradable art supplies to using sustainable digital mediums, such as eco-friendly printing and 3D printing using recycled materials, artists are exploring new avenues to create art with a reduced environmental impact.

The Future of Sustainability in Art Beyond 2026

The future of sustainability in art looks promising. With growing awareness and the continuous evolution of eco-friendly materials and techniques, more artists are likely to embrace sustainable practices. As advancements in technology and innovation continue, there’s expected to be a positive trajectory towards a more sustainable art landscape. Collaborations between artists, art institutions, and environmental organisations will likely drive this change forward.

Conclusion – Sustainability in Art

Creating environmentally friendly art is essential in fostering a sustainable and responsible approach to artistic expression.

The art world continually adapts and innovates to overcome existing challenges. As the momentum towards sustainability gains strength, the future holds immense potential for a more eco-conscious art industry, paving the way for an environmentally friendly and responsible creative community. Diverse and inclusive art practices contribute to sustainable and equitable art communities, enriching the collective efforts toward long-term cultural and environmental well-being. In this dynamic landscape, artists, organisations, and initiatives collectively contribute to a narrative where artistic expression harmonises seamlessly with ecological mindfulness, promising a vibrant and sustainable creative future.

August 1, 2025August 18, 2025

How to Network as an Artist: Building Authentic Connections

In today’s interconnected world, networking is not just a nice-to-have but a vital tool for survival and growth in the art world. The LinkedIn Creative Industry Report indicates that 85% of all jobs are filled by word of mouth within networked relationships. Therefore, artists must master the art of networking to build meaningful connections while navigating the ever-evolving digital landscape.

The Modern Networking Landscape

Networking in the digital age has transformed how artists connect with clients, collaborators, and fans. While traditional avenues like gallery openings, art fairs, and word-of-mouth remain valuable, digital platforms have significantly expanded reach, providing new opportunities to network as an artist and build relationships on a global scale.

Social media platforms, particularly Instagram, are powerful tools to showcase your work, engage with your audience, and build meaningful connections. Studies show that artists who maintain an active online presence are three times more likely to receive direct inquiries about their work. Sharing consistently and interacting with your community, allows you to network as an artist and attract commissions, collaborations, and partnerships.

The shift to online networking boosts your visibility and creates direct, meaningful engagement, making it an essential component of your artistic practice. From digital portfolios to online exhibitions, you now have unprecedented tools to amplify your reach and grow your career, enabling you to network as an artist globally.

Beyond social media, virtual art communities are vital in helping artists connect, share, and refine their work. Platforms like DeviantArt, with over 65 million registered members, provide spaces where artists can engage in creative exchanges, receive constructive feedback, and build relationships with other professionals. This sense of community is invaluable in an industry where collaboration and continuous learning are key.

Additionally, the rise of digital art fairs and online exhibitions has opened new doors for artists to showcase their work globally. Virtual events are seeing a surge in participation, allowing artists to reach a wider audience and connect directly with potential collectors and art buyers. These platforms break the constraints of physical locations, providing enhanced opportunities that help you network as an artist, build relationships, and expand your reach in ways that were previously limited.

Modern technology offers numerous tools to enhance networking efforts. Leveraging digital tools to expand your reach and boost engagement makes networking effectively as an artist more manageable and impactful.

Essential Strategies to Network as an Artist

1. Leverage Online Communities

Tip: Actively participate in online platforms where other creatives gather, such as social media groups, art forums, and virtual communities like DeviantArt or Behance.

How to do it:
- Regularly comment on others’ posts and offer meaningful, constructive feedback.
- Engage with fellow artists by sharing resources, tips, and industry news.
- Join discussions and create posts that spark conversation and encourage interaction.
- Reach out to artists or professionals whose work you admire with thoughtful messages, expressing your appreciation and interest in their journey.
- Connect directly with potential clients or collaborators who resonate with your style and vision. By engaging with those who express genuine interest in your art, you can foster valuable relationships that may lead to commissions, collaborations, or other opportunities.

Advantages:
- Building strong professional relationships through constructive feedback leads to trust and reciprocity. This can result in collaborations, referrals, and new opportunities that may have been missed.
- Engaging in these communities helps you stay connected with trends, learn new techniques, and enhance visibility.

2. Host Workshops or Skill-Sharing Sessions

Tip: Establish yourself as an authority by sharing your expertise with others.

How to do it:
- Organise live virtual workshops or create tutorial videos on your creative process.
- Offer free or paid online sessions that teach specific skills or techniques related to your art.
- Share these sessions through your website, social media, and art platforms.
- Look for online art fairs, webinars, workshops, or virtual conferences. Platforms like Eventbrite, MeetUp, or Facebook groups dedicated to the art industry often list virtual events that cater to artists.

Participate in chat discussions, ask questions, and connect with other attendees during virtual events. Don’t just be a passive participant—engage meaningfully with others, share your insights, and offer support.
Follow up with people you’ve met after attending an event. Send a personalised message through social media or email, mentioning something specific from your conversation. This helps to keep the connection alive and lays the foundation for future collaborations or opportunities.
Many virtual events have break-out sessions or create dedicated groups for attendees. These smaller groups allow for more focused networking and help you form deeper connections with potential collaborators or industry professionals worldwide.

Advantages:
- Hosting workshops or sharing knowledge showcases your expertise, attracts followers, and creates valuable networking opportunities.
- These events can connect you with other artists, collectors, and potential collaborators who share your interests.
- Engaging with participants during workshops creates opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals, opening doors to potential collaborations, commissioned work, and an expanded professional circle. By actively participating and sharing insights, artists can lay the groundwork for meaningful relationships that may develop over time.
- Additionally, these interactions help establish your reputation as a thought leader, making you a go-to person in your niche.

3. Attend Art Events and Exhibitions (Digital and Physical)

Tip: Combine online and in-person networking for maximum exposure and relationship-building.

How to do it:
- Digital Networking: Participate in online art communities, attend virtual art fairs, and engage in live-streamed workshops.
- Physical Networking: Attend gallery openings, art fairs, and artist meetups. Local art exhibitions can also serve as excellent platforms for connecting.
- Actively approach people at these events, exchange contact information, and follow up with personalised messages.

Advantages:
- Digital networking allows you to tap into global opportunities, gain recognition, and collaborate with international artists.
- Physical events build more profound, authentic relationships that may be hard to establish digitally.
- Americans for the Arts found that attending industry events regularly increases the likelihood of getting commissioned work by 3.5 times.
- Participating in both events increases your chances of building trust and gaining visibility among collectors, gallery owners, and fellow artists.

4. Build a Strong Online Presence

Tip: Develop and maintain a professional online portfolio and presence across multiple platforms.

How to do it:
- Create a dedicated website with a portfolio that includes your work, a biography, and contact details.
- To showcase your creative journey, regularly update your portfolio with new projects, behind-the-scenes content, and works in progress.
- Engage actively on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn to share your latest work, upcoming shows, and personal stories.

- Use tools like Buffer, Hootsuite, or Later to schedule your social media posts in advance. This ensures consistent posting and helps you stay on top of mind with your audience without constantly being online.
- Scheduling tools often provide insights into when your audience is most active. By posting at these optimal times, you increase your chances of engagement and make it easier to connect with potential clients and collaborators.
- Keep your portfolio up-to-date with high-quality images and detailed project descriptions to attract potential clients’ attention.

Advantages:
- A professional website is a dynamic platform to showcase your portfolio, share your story, and establish your brand. It simplifies the process for potential clients, collaborators, and collectors to explore your work, contact you directly, and stay updated on your latest projects. Centralising your online presence boosts visibility, builds trust, and fosters meaningful connections.
- Regularly updating your online portfolio boosts engagement and sparks conversations within your professional network, opening doors to meaningful opportunities.
- A strong online presence demonstrates your commitment as an artist and facilitates establishing long-term relationships that grow through ongoing networking efforts.

For more tips on expanding your online reach, check out our blog, The Artist’s Guide to Social Media.

By following these strategies, artists can enhance their networking efforts and build deeper relationships, which can lead to career growth and creative opportunities.

5. Develop a Personal Brand for Effective Networking

Tip: Build a personal brand that reflects your unique artistic identity and resonates with your audience.

How to do it:

Share your creative process by posting behind-the-scenes content, sketches, and updates on your artistic journey.
Maintain a consistent visual identity across your work and online presence to enhance recognition and memorability.
Engage authentically with your audience by showcasing your personality, values, and the story behind your art.
Ensure your digital portfolio is searchable by using relevant keywords in your bio, project descriptions, and tags. This will increase your chances of being discovered by people actively looking for an artist with your skills and style.

Advantages:

A strong personal brand helps you stand out in the competitive art world, making it easier for industry professionals and fellow artists to connect with you.
Sharing your creative journey and engaging in genuine conversations fosters trust and encourages meaningful interactions, leading to more networking opportunities.
A cohesive visual identity ensures you’re memorable, which is crucial for attracting potential collaborators, clients, and art collectors.

For more insights on building a strong personal brand, check out our blog, 10 Branding Tips for Artists.

By building a personal brand, artists can take a more targeted and practical approach to networking, which can lead to long-lasting connections and new opportunities.

6. Utilise Professional Platforms

Tip: Use professional platforms like LinkedIn and specialised art communities to showcase your work, connect with industry professionals, and increase visibility. For instance, sharing your latest project on LinkedIn can attract potential clients, while participating in Behance challenges can help you gain recognition within the creative community.

How to do it:

Create and optimise your LinkedIn profile to highlight your artistic accomplishments, exhibitions, and collaborations.
Join dedicated art communities like ArtStation to showcase your work and interact with other artists and professionals.
Regularly contribute to relevant discussions, share insights, and actively connect with gallery owners, curators, and industry leaders.
Scheduling tools also help you stay organised by letting you plan a content calendar. This way, you can align your posts with upcoming events, exhibitions, or new work releases, ensuring you’re always prepared to share relevant updates.

Advantages:

Professional networks expand your reach by connecting you with a broader audience, including potential buyers, collaborators, and influencers within the art world.
Consistent engagement in these networks enhances your credibility by showcasing your expertise and reinforcing your commitment to your craft.
These platforms offer access to exclusive opportunities, such as job listings, exhibition calls, and collaboration offers, facilitating career growth and networking with decision-makers.

Artists with active profiles on platforms like Behance and ArtStation are more visible to art directors and potential clients. This visibility increases the likelihood of direct interactions, opening doors for networking opportunities, collaborations, and new projects.

By consistently following up with contacts and actively engaging in industry discussions, you can build stronger relationships that lead to more referrals, recommendations, and potential opportunities. These actions make you visible and present in the community, fostering trust and opening doors for you to network as an artist.

By attending virtual studio tours, talks, and networking events, you can significantly expand your network as an artist, connect with professionals worldwide, and build long-term relationships. These activities boost your visibility, make you more approachable, and open doors for collaboration—key elements in today’s interconnected art world.

Measuring Networking Success

To ensure you’re networking effectively as an artist, tracking your progress and adjusting your strategy regularly is essential. Here’s how to implement both practices:

1. Track Your Progress

To effectively network and gauge your success, tracking your efforts and measuring how well your strategies work is essential. Here’s how to do it:

Set Clear Networking Goals: Define your goals for your networking efforts. Are you trying to gain followers, secure collaborations, or connect with gallery owners? Setting specific goals will help you stay focused and know exactly what to measure.

Use Analytics Tools: Platforms like Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook offer insights into engagement rates, follower growth, and post reach. By regularly reviewing these analytics, artists can identify which types of content generate the most interaction, allowing them to tailor their networking efforts. Understanding what resonates with their audience helps artists refine their approach to building connections, ensuring they focus on meaningful interactions that could lead to valuable collaborations, opportunities, and a stronger professional network.
Track Networking Contacts: Keep a spreadsheet or use a CRM tool (like Airtable or HubSpot) to track the artists, professionals, or clients you’ve connected with. Note how and when you interacted with them and any follow-up actions. This will help you stay organised and follow through on your connections.
Review Your Success Regularly: Dedicate monthly or quarterly time to assess your networking progress. This will help you understand which tactics have worked and which haven’t, allowing you to refine your approach moving forward.

By tracking your progress, you understand what networking strategies are paying off and which areas need more focus.

2. Adjust Your Strategy

Networking is an evolving process. The art world—and how professionals connect—changes frequently, so adjusting your networking strategy as needed is crucial. Here’s how to improve your networking efforts:

Solicit Feedback: Ask for feedback from people in your network. Whether it’s about your social media content, how you engage with others, or how your professional interactions come across, honest feedback can provide valuable insights into areas of improvement.
Stay Flexible and Experiment. Don’t be afraid to try new methods of networking. Try different types of posts, other times to post, or new virtual networking events. You’ll discover what works best for you and your audience by experimenting.
Adapt to Industry Changes: The digital landscape and the art industry are constantly changing. Keep up with new platforms, trends, or tools that could help you expand your reach. Attend webinars or follow industry leaders to stay informed about the latest networking techniques.
Refine Your Pitch and Approach: Networking isn’t just about connecting—it’s also about how you present yourself. Adjust your elevator pitch, how you approach people in online spaces, and how you engage with potential collaborators. Ensure that your brand messaging and visual identity remain consistent across all channels.

Consistently refining and adjusting your strategy ensures continued growth and relevance in the fast-moving art world. By tracking your progress, you can optimise your efforts to network as an artist, build meaningful connections, and expand your reach, bringing you closer to achieving your professional goals.

Conclusion

Learning to network as an artist requires patience, strategy, and authenticity. By combining traditional networking modes with modern digital tools, you can connect meaningfully with your audience and support your creative career. As you refine your strategy. prioritise adding value to others while staying authentic to your artistic vision.

Additional Resources for Artists Looking to Network

Americans for the Arts offers artists a wide range of resources and guidelines for expanding their professional networks through traditional and digital means.
Creative Capital provides training programmes and networking opportunities to help artists build sustainable careers in the creative industry.
The Art Career Project maintains an up-to-date database of networking events, opportunities, and resources to help visual artists expand their professional reach.
Working Artist Magazine periodically publishes in-depth articles and case studies on successful networking strategies that have helped artists advance their careers significantly.

These resources can guide you further as you network as an artist and build your creative career. Remember that networking is an ongoing process, and the relationships you make today can lead to opportunities for years to come.

July 30, 2025January 5, 2026

The Influence of the Street Art Movement: From Graffiti to Galleries

Once dismissed as vandalism, the street art movement now stands as one of the most influential forces in contemporary art. What began as a raw, rebellious form of expression on city walls has grown into a globally recognised cultural movement – one that challenges social norms, reshapes urban identity, and commands space in galleries and museums around the world.

This blog explores the evolution of the street art movement, tracing its journey from underground resistance to mainstream recognition, and examining how it continues to redefine what art looks like in public and institutional spaces today.

The Birth of the Street Art Movement: From the 1960s to Today

The roots of the street art movement are deeply embedded in the social and cultural revolutions of the 1960s and 1970s. Originating in cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Philadelphia, early forms of graffiti emerged as a means for marginalised communities to express their frustrations, hopes, and dreams. These early pioneers used spray paint and markers to claim their space on urban walls—an act that was as much about survival and identity as it was about art.

In the urban jungles of 1970s New York, graffiti was more than an aesthetic choice—it was social commentary. For many young people, particularly those from disenfranchised communities, tagging walls was a way to be seen and heard. Their art was a silent rebellion against societal neglect, a cry for recognition in a rapidly changing urban landscape. This raw, unfiltered expression laid the foundation for what we now call the street art movement.

Initially, these artistic expressions were often met with harsh criticism and legal repercussions. However, as the cultural landscape shifted, so did perceptions of graffiti. Influential figures like Jean-Michel Basquiat and Keith Haring began to gain recognition not just on the streets but also in the mainstream art world. Their ability to infuse raw urban energy with sophisticated artistic techniques helped shift the narrative—what was once considered vandalism started being seen as a legitimate and innovative art form.

Today, the journey from graffiti to gallery is a powerful testament to the transformative power of art. The early days of clandestine tagging have given way to internationally acclaimed exhibitions, proving that the street art movement has evolved into a vibrant and respected part of the global art scene.

The Many Styles of the Street Art Movement

One of the street art movement’s defining features is its diversity. It encompasses various styles and techniques, each contributing uniquely to the urban landscape. In this section, we explore some of the most popular forms within the street art movement and what makes them so impactful.

1. Graffiti: The Raw Power of Expression

Graffiti is often the first image people think of when they think of the street art movement. Characterised by bold lines, vibrant colours, and dynamic compositions, graffiti is a direct, unfiltered expression of urban life. It often conveys powerful messages about social issues, identity, and rebellion. The sheer energy and spontaneity of graffiti capture the essence of the street art movement—it’s raw, unedited, and deeply personal.

2. Stencils: Precision and Repetition

Stencils offer a level of precision that is often absent in freehand graffiti. By cutting out intricate designs and patterns, artists can reproduce consistent imagery that resonates with viewers. Stencil art has been embraced by many famous artists within the street art movement, including Banksy, who uses the technique to deliver sharp, satirical commentary. The repetitive nature of stencils allows for a strong, unified visual message, making it one of the most recognisable forms in the street art movement.

3. Murals: Storytelling on a Grand Scale

Murals transform entire walls into canvases that tell expansive stories. These large-scale works are often commissioned by communities, local governments, or private collectors, and they serve to celebrate cultural heritage, historical events, or social movements. Murals can be visually stunning and emotionally powerful, inviting viewers to engage with the narrative and immerse themselves in the story. Their scale and permanence have made murals a defining element of the modern street art movement.

4. Wheatpaste: Ephemeral and Impactful

Wheatpaste, a mixture of flour and water, allows artists to quickly adhere paper posters to urban surfaces. This method creates temporary installations that capture the fleeting nature of urban life. Wheatpaste art is inherently ephemeral—its impermanence adds to its allure, as each piece is a snapshot of a moment. Despite its temporary nature, wheatpaste remains a vital part of the street art movement, symbolising the transient beauty of urban expression.

5. 3D Street Art: Blurring the Lines Between Reality and Illusion

Breaking free from flat surfaces, 3D street art uses optical illusions and clever shading techniques to create images that appear to leap off the wall. These interactive pieces invite viewers to engage with the art on a new level as they challenge perceptions and create immersive experiences. The innovative use of space in 3D creations has redefined the boundaries of the street art movement, transforming ordinary surfaces into dynamic, multi-dimensional displays.

Each style contributes to the rich tapestry of the street art movement, showcasing the versatility and innovation that define the genre. They serve as powerful reminders that art is not confined to traditional mediums but is an ever-evolving expression that reflects modern society’s complexities.

Notable Artists: Shaping the Street Art Movement

The influence of the street art movement can best be understood by examining the journeys of its most celebrated practitioners. These artists have redefined what it means to create art outside the traditional studio and paved the way for future urban creatives.

1. Banksy: The Enigmatic Rebel

Banksy, the most renowned urban artist, has become a defining figure in the street art movement. His politically charged and often humorous pieces challenge societal norms and provoke thoughtful discussion. Banksy’s work blurs the line between art and activism, and his anonymity only adds to the mystique and allure of his creations. From stencilled images on brick walls to large-scale installations, Banksy has redefined what it means to create art that is both accessible and deeply provocative within the street art movement.

2. Shepard Fairey: The Voice of Social Change

Shepard Fairey, another towering figure in the world of the street art movement, is best known for his “Obey” campaign and the iconic “Hope” poster that symbolised political change during Obama’s presidential campaign. Fairey’s work is marked by bold imagery and striking iconography, using art to inspire and mobilise communities. His transition from street installations to international exhibitions illustrates the street art movement’s growing acceptance and influence in the broader art world. You can explore more of his work through Shepard Fairey’s Obey Giant Project, which showcases his evolution from street installations to international exhibitions.

3. Swoon: The Master of Intricate Paper Cutouts

Swoon, one of the most prominent female artists in the street art movement, is known for her intricate paper-cut portraits that explore themes of social justice, community, and resilience. Her work, often found on abandoned buildings and unexpected urban spaces, bridges the gap between fine art and the street art movement, bringing deeply personal narratives to public view.

Beyond the Icons: Emerging Voices

A new generation of artists is reshaping urban landscapes with fresh perspectives and innovative techniques. They are pushing the boundaries of traditional graffiti by incorporating digital media, mixed media, and even augmented reality into their work. Their creations reflect contemporary issues, cultural heritage, and personal narratives, ensuring that the street art movement continues to evolve and resonate with modern audiences.

1. INTI: Latin American Heritage in Murals

Hailing from Chile, INTI infuses his large-scale murals with elements of Latin American culture, folklore, and surrealism. His signature style features sun-kissed figures adorned with symbolic motifs, creating thought-provoking pieces that explore themes of identity, spirituality, and societal transformation. INTI’s work can be found in cities worldwide, from Paris to Miami, demonstrating the global reach of emerging artists within the street art movement.

2. FAITH47: A Voice for the Marginalised

South African artist FAITH47 is known for her profoundly emotive and poetic murals highlighting social justice, urban decay, and transformation themes. Her work blends realism with abstract elements, creating hauntingly beautiful pieces that challenge perceptions and provoke introspection. Whether transforming expansive walls or crafting intimate indoor pieces, FAITH47’s work powerfully reflects the resilience and human struggle central to the street art movement.

3. JR: Street Art Meets Social Commentary

French artist JR combines photography and street art to tell powerful human stories. His large-scale black-and-white portraits are often pasted on urban surfaces, bridges, and entire buildings, turning city streets into open-air galleries. Through projects like Inside Out and Women Are Heroes, JR uses his art to amplify the voices of marginalised communities, bridging the gap between art and activism within the street art movement.

These artists—and many others—are redefining the global street art movement, ensuring it remains a dynamic and ever-evolving form of creative expression. With social media and global street art festivals providing unprecedented exposure, emerging voices are gaining international recognition, proving that the street art movement’s future is as bold and impactful as its past.

Global Street Art Festivals: Celebrating Urban Creativity

Street art festivals have become a cornerstone of the global art scene. These events bring together artists from around the world to celebrate the diversity and dynamism of the street art movement. Festivals like POW! WOW! In Hawaii, the Nuart Festival in Norway, and the Meeting of Styles in Germany have transformed urban spaces into open-air galleries where creativity knows no bounds.

1. The Role of Festivals in the Evolution of the Street Art Movement

Street art festivals are more than exhibitions; they are vibrant celebrations of cultural exchange and creative innovation. They allow artists to collaborate, share techniques, and push the limits of their creative expression. These festivals foster an environment where traditional boundaries dissolve, and artists can experiment freely, often resulting in groundbreaking work that challenges conventional artistic norms within the street art movement.

2. Cultural Convergence on a Global Scale

One of the most exciting aspects of these festivals is their ability to bring together diverse cultures and unique artistic styles. Each festival is a melting pot where ideas are exchanged, and new artistic movements are born. The convergence of international talent enriches the festival experience and contributes to the global dialogue on the street art movement. This international exposure has significantly elevated the street art movement from a local urban phenomenon to a respected global art form.

3. Virtual Festivals: Expanding Accessibility

Many street art festivals have embraced virtual platforms in response to global events and the increasing need for digital connectivity. Online exhibitions, interactive workshops, and digital galleries have allowed enthusiasts worldwide to experience the vibrancy of the street art movement without leaving their homes. Explore virtual street art with Google Arts & Culture to see how technology is bringing murals, graffiti, and installations from around the globe to your This digital evolution has broadened the audience and opened new avenues for creative expression and collaboration within the street art movement.

These festivals underscore the transformative power of the street art movement, a unifying force that transcends geographical and cultural barriers and catalyses innovation and dialogue in the art world.

Street Art Movement in Galleries: Challenging Traditional Boundaries

Over the past few decades, the migration of the street art movement from urban walls to the refined spaces of galleries and museums has marked a significant cultural shift. This transition validates the street art movement as a serious art form and challenges the established norms of what constitutes fine art.

1. Breaking Down Barriers

Including the street art movement in galleries has fundamentally altered the art world’s perception of urban creativity. Works once considered acts of defiance are now exhibited alongside classical paintings and sculptures. This integration has sparked debates about the nature of art, the role of the artist, and the importance of context in shaping our understanding of creative expression.

2. Landmark Exhibitions

Exhibitions such as “Beyond the Streets” in Los Angeles have been instrumental in bringing the street art movement to a broader audience. These shows feature a diverse array of works—from gritty graffiti to polished installations—demonstrating the depth and complexity of the genre. Such exhibitions not only celebrate the history and evolution of the street art movement but also highlight its relevance in today’s art world.

3. Commercial Success and Critical Acclaim

The commercial success of artists from the street art movement in the gallery circuit has been nothing short of remarkable. Works by artists like Banksy and Shepard Fairey have fetched record prices at auction, reflecting a growing appreciation for the street art movement’s cultural and monetary value. This commercial recognition has paved the way for more urban artists to gain entry into the mainstream art market, blurring the lines between public art and fine art.

Respect for the Art Form

The street art movement’s raw, unpolished aesthetic is increasingly valued despite its vulnerability to weather and urban change. Its fleeting nature adds to its allure, creating a sense of impermanence that captivates admirers. As recognition grows, so does appreciation for its transient beauty, marking a shift in the art world’s perspective on the street art movement.

Conclusion

The street art movement is more than a style — it’s a powerful movement that turns public spaces into canvases for expression and change. Blending traditional and urban art, it uses bold imagery to challenge perspectives, ignite conversations, and reshape how we see the world. The street art movement plays a pivotal role in promoting diversity and inclusivity within the art world, giving voice to underrepresented communities and perspectives. By transforming cityscapes, the street art movement leaves a lasting imprint on culture, society, and how we experience our surroundings.

FAQs

What is the street art movement, and how does it relate to graffiti?

The street art movement is a visual art form created in public spaces. It encompasses techniques like murals, stencils, wheatpaste, installations, and graffiti. Graffiti is one of the street art movement’s original and most influential styles, often focused on stylised lettering and tags. While the street art movement now includes a broader range of materials and messages, graffiti remains its cultural and creative foundation.

How did the street art movement evolve from vandalism to gallery exhibitions?

The street art movement began as a form of rebellious urban expression, often viewed as vandalism. Over time, prominent artists like Banksy and Jean-Michel Basquiat helped elevate its status by blending raw street visuals with powerful social commentary. Today, the street art movement is showcased in galleries and museums, recognised for its cultural impact and artistic innovation.

Who are some of the most influential artists in the street art movement?

Notable artists in the street art movement include:

Banksy – known for satirical and political stencil work
Shepard Fairey – creator of the “Obey” campaign and Obama’s “Hope” poster
Jean-Michel Basquiat, who transitioned from graffiti to fine art

Emerging artists worldwide continue to shape the street art movement using digital tools, mixed media, and AR.

What are the main types within the street art movement?

Popular forms within the street art movement include:

Graffiti – expressive, letter-based art
Stencils – repeatable, detailed images
Murals – large-scale storytelling on walls
Wheatpaste – poster art that’s fast and ephemeral
3D Street Art – illusion-based designs that engage viewers interactively. Each style adds to the street art movement’s diversity and innovation.

What role do street art festivals play in the street art movement?

Street art festivals provide platforms for global artists to collaborate, showcase work, and exchange ideas. Events like POW! WOW! Nuart and Meeting of Styles transform cities into open-air galleries. Many have also embraced virtual formats, increasing accessibility and global reach for the street art movement.

Why is the street art movement important in today's culture?

The street art movement reflects social issues, challenges norms, and reclaims public space as a canvas for dialogue. It connects communities, makes art accessible, and brings attention to inequality, climate change, and identity. Its power lies in being both disruptive and unifying.

Can works from the street art movement be preserved, or are they meant to be temporary?

While some pieces from the street art movement are preserved or recreated, much of it is inherently ephemeral. Weather, city development, and its public nature mean it often fades or is removed. This impermanence adds value, capturing a moment and highlighting art’s fleeting beauty within the street art movement.

May 16, 2024July 21, 2025

Real and Virtual in Art

Art and Augmented Reality: Blurring the Lines Between Real and Virtual

In the ever-evolving realm of technology, the marriage of art and augmented reality (AR) has created a fascinating fusion, blurring the lines between the tangible and the virtual. This blog about Art and Augmented Reality delves into the innovative ways augmented reality is making a mark in the art world, transforming traditional perceptions and providing artists with new mediums for creative expression.

AR in Art Installations

Augmented Reality (AR) in art installations is a rapidly evolving field transforming how audiences interact with art. More art institutions are embracing AR technology to make art more accessible and engaging. For instance, the Japanese digital art collective teamLab created an AR project that brings drawings to life, allowing audiences to interact and explore the images innovatively.

Some AR art installations enable viewers to manipulate the 3D elements of the composition. An example is Adana Tillman’s “Interplay: Art Play for All,” which was produced in conjunction with the Akron Art Museum and placed collage-style posters throughout the city. These posters could be activated through QR codes, displaying human figures and abstracted forms in an interactive AR experience.

Digital platforms such as Acute Art and Artivive are showcasing artists’ work in digital galleries, further expanding the reach of AR in the art world. These platforms allow viewers to experience art from anywhere, blurring the boundaries between physical and digital spaces. Notable examples of AR art featured on these platforms include Olafur Eliasson’s “Wunderkammer” and Marina Abramovic’s “Rising,” which are immersive experiences crafted with AR technology.

The application of AR in the art world has extended beyond galleries to public art, stage design, and the production and installation of exhibitions.

Interactive Exhibits: Engaging the Senses. Experience Art and Augmented Reality

Augmented reality (AR) is revolutionising how we interact with exhibits in museums and galleries, enhancing visitor engagement and transforming the traditional art experience.

At the National Museum of Singapore, visitors can immerse themselves in the “Story of the Forest” exhibit, a creation by teamLab. This exhibit uses AR to create a virtual world that merges with the physical environment, offering an interactive and captivating experience. Similarly, the Art Gallery of Ontario in Toronto has embraced AR with its ReBlink installation, reimagining how visitors interact with traditional paintings by adding a layer of digital interactivity.

The National Gallery in London took a unique approach in 2021 by extending its AR experience beyond the museum’s physical walls. This innovative project allows the public to explore collections from the National Gallery, National Portrait Gallery, and Royal Academy of Arts through their smartphones. Users can virtually navigate the exhibits, delve into artwork details, and gain insights into the artists and their creations, making art more accessible and engaging.

In New York, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, in partnership with Verizon, launched The Met Unframed. This initiative provides virtual access to digital galleries and AR renditions of iconic Met artworks. By leveraging the capabilities of 5G technology, this initiative offers an immersive art and gaming experience, transforming how visitors interact with art and blurring the lines between virtual and physical realms.

.These examples underscore AR’s transformative impact on the art world. AR creates interactive and immersive experiences that enrich visitor engagement and deepen the connection to art.

Art and Augmented Reality: Artists as Pioneers of AR Exploration

Artists are increasingly exploring augmented reality (AR) as a medium, pushing the boundaries of traditional artistic expression and creating new mixed-media art forms. Here are some examples of artists who are pioneers inArt and Augmented Reality:

Maurício Nocêra (Lito)

Maurício Nocêra, known as Lito, is a prominent São Paulo-based muralist and independent AR street artist gaining international recognition for blending augmented reality with street art. In his innovative work, the artist creatively reimagines classic artworks like “The Birth of Venus” and “The Creation of Adam.” He infuses these iconic pieces with contemporary street art elements, such as vivid colours and spray can effects, through augmented reality (AR). This AR integration overlaps traditional imagery with modern graffiti tags and urban art styles, effectively blending classical art with a fresh, street-inspired aesthetic.

Moreover, Lito extends his AR talents to create interactive social media experiences. This involves using AR technology to make his reimagined artworks come alive in the digital space, often in response to user interactions. Viewers can experience these classic artworks in a new dimension, seeing them transform with graffiti and colour changes as they engage with them through social media platforms. This approach modernises the art and makes it more accessible and engaging for a broader audience, especially those accustomed to digital and interactive media. He has developed an innovative Instagram filter that lets users create AR graffiti tags using a virtual spray can. This engaging tool not only entertains but also connects audiences with the immersive world of AR graffiti art, offering a glimpse into the creative process of AR street art.

Susi Vetter

Susi Vetter, an AR artist based in Berlin and a former Adobe creative resident, is known for her unique social media filters, particularly her psychedelic and surrealist virtual masks. While she excels in creating these masks, Vetter’s primary focus is illustration, multimedia art, and digital product design. Her work is characterised by immersive storytelling that merges physical and digital realities, often featuring relatable, gloomy motifs expressed in a soft, delicate manner.

Her AR creations range from simple doodles to complex, collage-style drawings, showcasing her talent in combining shapes, colours, and lines to reinterpret nature. Additionally, Vetter often collaborates with other digital artists, leading to exciting and innovative works in the AR space.

H.C. Dunaway Smith

H.C. Dunaway Smith is a talented mixed reality artist known for her diverse skill set and interdisciplinary approach. Her work spans a range of applications, from captivating imagery in her mixed reality creations to interactive AR album covers promoting her musical project. Notably, her Ruth Bader Ginsburg AR Memorial provided a unique combination of art and political education.

Dunaway Smith also creates commercial pieces themed around holidays, like Halloween and Valentine’s Day, and has developed a unique AR Holiday Card.

Andrew Wilson (Letters Pray)

Andrew, an AR lettering artist, excels in manipulating light, shadow, and depth, bringing unparalleled polish and precision to his work. His 2D creations, already notable for their depth, are further enhanced by augmented reality, adding even more realism and detail. His skill in texturing, ranging from vintage wood to various metals, adds to this effect.

His art not only displays mesmerising skill but also subtly incorporates political messages, with phrases like “Equality”, “Let’s Be Allies”, and “Vote”, reflecting his ideals.

Glenn Segard (Caledonia Tattoo)

Augmented reality (AR) in tattoo art, as showcased by Glenn Segard of Caledonia Tattoo, combines traditional tattooing and digital technology. Here’s how it generally works:

Design Creation: A tattoo artist creates a design, which can be a traditional image or pattern. This design is inked onto the skin using standard tattooing techniques.
Digital Layer: The design is created digitally alongside the physical tattoo. This digital layer is essentially an AR trigger—it’s coded to be recognised by AR software.
AR Software Interaction: The tattoo comes to life when viewed through an AR-enabled device, such as a smartphone or AR glasses. The AR software recognises the tattoo’s digital layer and overlays animated graphics or effects.
Animation and Effects: The result is a dynamic, animated tattoo version that can move, change colours, or display various visual effects. This animation is only visible through the AR device’s screen, adding a hidden, digital dimension to the traditional tattoo.

In Segard’s Skull project, for example, what appears to be a standard tattoo can transform into a moving, interactive artwork when viewed through an AR application. This enhances the visual experience of the tattoo and pushes the boundaries of body art.

Beyond aesthetics, AR tattoos offer practical applications, such as carrying essential personal information. For instance, they could inform medical professionals about allergies in emergencies or help identify unconscious individuals. This innovative use of AR in tattoos opens up new possibilities and underscores the exciting future of this technology in art and personal expression.

Yunuen Esparza

Yunuen Esparza, an oil painter and AR artist from Mexico City, skillfully integrates augmented reality into her deconstructivist art. Known for her geometric patterns and vivid colours, she uses AR to add dynamic layers to her paintings. Yunuen’s work, which often merges human figures with animal imagery, gains an interactive aspect through AR. This technology allows viewers to experience her paintings in a new, multi-dimensional way, where the art comes alive, offering a deeper engagement with the themes of individuality and nature’s randomness. Her use of AR in art represents a blend of traditional techniques and innovative digital interactivity. This blend of elements reflects cultural symbols from Mexican traditions, like Dia de Los Muertos and lucha libre, and iconic figures such as Frida Kahlo.

Marc O Matic

Marc O Matic is renowned for using traditional pen drawings and cutting-edge technology to blend Art and Augmented Reality. His work is characterised by a modern twist on steampunk aesthetics, featuring copper and metal tones. In addition to the visual aspect, he enhances his augmented reality (AR) creations with sound design, adding depth to the storytelling component of his work.

Marc O Matic transforms his intricate pen drawings into immersive, interactive experiences using AR. When viewed through AR-enabled devices, his artworks come to life, often moving and evolving in real time, creating a dynamic interplay between the physical and digital. This interactive aspect allows viewers to engage with his art, going beyond mere observation to active participation.

Like artists like Daft Punk and Corpse Husband, Marc O Matic’s online anonymity approach focuses squarely on his art; this mystique adds to the allure of his creations, drawing audiences into the fantastical worlds he conjures. In the field of art in augmented reality, where the boundary between reality and digital art is fluid, Marc O Matic’s work stands out for its ability to transport viewers into a uniquely imaginative and technologically advanced universe.

These artists represent a growing community of creatives who are harnessing the capabilities of AR to expand the horizons of art, creating interactive, immersive experiences that merge the physical and the digital.

Bridging Art and Augmented Reality

The intersection of art and augmented reality marks a transformative era. With the ongoing advancement of technology, the synergy between art and augmented reality (AR) is poised to offer even more engaging experiences. This evolution is set further to dissolve the distinctions between physical and virtual realms, paving the way for new, exciting avenues in artistry and interactive experiences. This trend signals a promising and innovative direction for the future of art, where digital augmentation and traditional forms intertwine to create novel and captivating forms of expression.

We at Cosimo love art. We have tried writing about Art and Interior Design, Art News, and some interviews of some of our artists who we are sure you would love to know. Do read those sections too.

May 6, 2024November 6, 2024

Venice Biennale | Highlights 2024

From April 17th to April 22nd, our Head of Curation and Partnerships, Zoë took a trip to the Venice Biennale to visit the 60th edition of the fair – check out her highlights for 2024…

La Biennale di Venezia (as well as its other exhibition site, Arsenale) runs from 20th April 2024 to 24th November 2024. The theme of this year’s Biennale di Venezia centred on the expression “Foreigners Everywhere” or “Straniere Ovunque.”

La Biennale di Venezia (Curator): Adriano Pedrosa, Artistic Director of Museo de São Paulo Assis Chateaubriand [First Latin American Curator of Biennale].

Here is a quick breakdown of the highlights of her visit:

French Pavilion

Artist: Julien Creuzet (@julien.creuzet)

Location: France Pavilion, Biennale di Venezia 2024

Photography by: Zoë Goetzmann

Commissioner: Institut français on behalf of The Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs and The Ministry of Culture

Curators: Céline Kopp, Cindy Sissokho

Exhibitor: Julien Creuzet (@julien.creuzet)

Representing the France Pavilion, Artist Julien Creuzet (@julien.creuzet), creates an immersive exhibition in visuals and in sound.

Walking through this classical structure, art visitors can see tree-like structures extending from the floor and hanging down from the ceiling, wrapped in bright-coloured (found) plastic, metal, string and rope-like materials.

Video screens are placed in each pavilion’s rooms projecting digital, underwater animations.

Art-goers can hear low frequency sound-scapes echoing and vibrating throughout the building.

The exhibition considers ecology and nature from the artist’s perspective.

Born in Le Blanc-Mesnil (Suburb of Paris, France) and raised in Martinique, Julien draws inspiration from his own life and French-Caribbean identity (now living in Montreuil, France).

Location: Giardini della Biennale, C. Giazzo, 30122 Venezia, Italy

United States of America Pavilion

Artist: Jeffrey Gibson (@jeffrune)

Location: United States of America (Pavilion), Biennale di Venezia 2024

Photography by: Zoë Goetzmann

Commissioners: Kathleen Ash-Milby, Louis Grachos, Abigail Winograd

Curators: Kathleen Ash-Milby, Abigail Winograd

Exhibitor: Jeffrey Gibson

An American-Indian Chocktaw/Cherokee artist and sculptor, Jeffrey Gibson (@jeffrune) represents the United States of America Pavilion at the Biennale di Venezia 2024.

Through his multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary practice, the artist merges the concepts and themes of indigenous histories, queer histories, LGBTQ+ and other subcultural writings and traditions through bold, multi-coloured sculptures, paintings and video work on display in this exhibition.

At the end of the show, viewers are invited to watch a short film. Through a series of video clips, art visitors can see an American-Indian woman dancing (shot in a classic music video style) mixed with psychedelic, NFT style images.

Location: Giardini della Biennale, C. Giazzo, 30122 Venezia, Italy

Belgium Pavilion

Location: Belgium Pavilion, Biennale di Venezia 2024

Photography by: Zoë Goetzmann

Commissioner: Wallonia-Brussels Federation

Exhibitors: Denicolai & Provoost, Antoinette Jattiot, Nord, Spec uloos

Belgium’s exhibition mixes literature, cartography and typography. Through the formation of a “Petticoat Government” (a multi-person/artistic collective), visitors are invited to take a copy of “L’petti lion” (pink-coloured newspapers) placed in racks at the beginning of this exhibition. Stepping further inside of the building, art viewers can see sculptural, Folklore giants positioned above head on an enormous, thick metal bar frame. Although quite a small pavilion, the exhibition makes an interesting point to draw together the importance of aesthetics, politics and pop-culture. Moral of the story: To Make People Listen; Paint (or Print it) in Pink.

Location: Giardini della Biennale, C. Giazzo, 30122 Venezia, Italy

Giardini della Biennale [Central or Main Pavilion], La Biennale di Venezia:

Artist: Liz Collins (@lizzycollins7)

Location: Venice Biennale 2024 (Central/Main Pavilion)

Photography by: Zoë Goetzmann

Curator: Adriano Pedrosa (@adrianopedrosa)

The Biennale di Venezia 2024 is divided into two sections: 1) Nucleo Contemporaneo (artworks by queer artists, folk and indigenous artists), 2) Nucleo Storico (artworks by 20th century global artists from Latin America, Africa, Middle East and Asia).

To summarise, the top artworks and artists to not to miss in the Biennale’s main /central exhibition include: ‘Nucleo Storica Abstractions” (located in the central room of this pavilion devoted to Abstract Art by Latin American and Indigenous artists), golden sculptures by Artist Victor Fotso Nyie (@fotsonyie), Minimalist Artworks inspired by Agnes Martin by Artist Evelyn Taocheng Weng, A Bronze Sculpture of a Trans Woman entitled “Puppies Puppies” by Artist Jade Guanaro Kuriki-Olivo (placed in a small courtyard garden by the building’s side entrance), notable artworks by woman artist Romany Eveleigh (20th century British artist), as well as rainbow coloured textiles by Artist Liz Collins (paying homage to another well-known female artist Sonia Delauney).

Location: Giardini della Biennale, C. Giazzo, 30122 Venezia, Italy

Venice Pavilion

Artist: Pietro Ruffo (@pietroruffoartist)

Location: Venice Pavilion, Venice Biennale 2024 (Central/Main Pavilion)

Photography by: Zoë Goetzmann

Commissioner: Maurizio Carlin

Curator: Giovanna Zabotti

Exhibitors: Safet Zec, Pietro Ruffo, Vittorio Marella, Franco Arminio

I am not sure if it was because I was completely taken by the ‘magic’ of Venice during my visit, but I was hypnotised by this tranquil presentation of artworks seen at the Venice Pavilion.

“Being at home is undoubtedly a feeling, but often, in the common imagination, uniquely linked to one or several places where you feel free to be yourself,” notes the Biennale Di Venezia website.

Walking through this well-lit, white-walled room with a marble-looking floor, the back wall of the exhibition consists of bookshelves with brown manuscripts lined up in consecutive, well-organised order. Such artworks are entitled, “The Woodland’s Archives” by Artist Pietro Ruffo.

Positioned in front of these artworks, art visitors can view “Migration Globe” (2022) [as seen in photo above] by the same artist – an enormous, carved wooden globe with depictions of mythological creatures and figures.

Flanked on each wing of the pavilion, art goers are able to see Contemporary and Old Master-inspired Artworks by Artists Vittoria Marella and from “studio d’artista” (Artist Safet Zec). The paintings consist of intimate scenes between people, showcasing the beauty (and often suffering) of humanity in its primal form(s). Again, at the end of the exhibition, individuals visiting this pavilion have the freedom to explore a behind-the-scenes look at the “messy studio” of Safet Zec.

Perhaps this exhibition highlights the importance of tradition when it comes to artisanship, art-making and the (fine) art of creating masterpieces (something that Italy – especially Venice – prides itself on).

Location: Giardini della Biennale, C. Giazzo, 30122 Venezia VE, Italy

“Homesick” and Fondazione Prada Exhibition

“Homesick” “Homesick” is a two-person exhibition exploring themes of identity, alienation, dislocation, immigration and “Otherness.” Artists shown in this exhibition are Lidia Russkova Hasaya (@saintlidia) and Timofey Kolesnikov (@timofeykolesnikov). The exhibition was curated by Alena Stetsiukevich for CREA – One Contemporary Art Space (Founder and Contemporary Art Curator: Pier Paolo Scelsi, @pierpaolo.scelsi) for La Biennale di Venezia 2024.

During my visit, I spoke with one of the artists Lidia who took on an active role in the curation of this linear exhibition – showcasing artworks inspired by her personal experience of being rejected for a Georgian visa. “Homesick” consists of a variety of disciplines and mediums: video art, photography and art installations. A perfect ‘Photo-Op,’ one of my favourite parts of the show, included the artist’s public art display at the end of the gallery space. For this artwork, the artist collected upcycled boxes from around Venice, displaying them in a small room to mimic the look of a storage facility.

Lidia creates her own “packing list” to present a list of imaginary items in these boxes. Labels for these boxes include: “Clothes,” “VHS Tapes,” “High School Sh*t,” “The Ex Box (5),” “Other Exes.” As artists, it is important to carry a sense of humour when approaching art (or else what is the point of making artwork, if you can not have a bit of fun in the creating process)? The show juggles both personal and global perspectives on current socio-political ideas in today’s world. With the present society in a state of ‘flux,’ it can become a bit difficult for a person to define their own identity (or rather, to understand what a “home” truly means) to a specific individual.

Exhibition Runs Until: 7 May 2024

Location: CREA Cantieri del Contemporaneo, Giudecca, 211, Venice, Italy

November 12, 2023November 6, 2024

Banking on Art: Cosimo and Incard Partner to Elevate Emerging Creatives Online

Cosimo is excited to announce that we are joining forces with Incard to empower emerging artists and reshape the landscape of the online art market.

Following our recent rapid growth, onboarding hundreds of new artists and helping them sell their work directly to the people who love what they create, we’re proud to be launching this new package of support to further elevate our community of artists through our Cosimo Scholarships programme.

Incard is a dedicated business banking provider for creatives and e-commerce sellers, who are now following in the footsteps of our name-sake, and historic figure in the world of finance, Cosimo de Medici to support artists and help them to develop.

“Supporting artists was the thing that gave me the greatest satisfaction and contentment”

– Cosimo de Medici

This collaboration is centred around a commitment to fostering the growth of emerging artists.

Cosimo will be offering our scholars a complimentary one-year membership to its Professional Plan, providing a suite of features designed to elevate their online selling experience.

From 0% commission on sales to integrated shipping support and our comprehensive analytics reporting, our scholars will be able to take charge of their careers and more easily sell their work online.

Scholars will also gain exclusive access to the brand-new Cosimo Academy online learning program. This educational resource, coupled with tailored support from the Cosimo team, will further empower our artists to refine their craft and navigate the complexities of running a business as an artist successfully.

Incard will be supporting our scholars by providing them with a dedicated business banking account – complete with seamless global payment solutions, accounting integrations, and cashback on online advertising spend.

Having supported hundreds of artists over the last few years, we know that managing finances can be one of the biggest challenges many creatives face.

So, we understand just how valuable and transformative this support will be.

Meet The First Cohort…

Rory Watson

Rory is an abstract painter based out of London. Since achieving his BA Fine Art degree from Central Saint Martins in 2019, Rory has completed residencies with the Muse Gallery and Art Inspirations… See More

Mia Hawk

Mia Hawk is a self-taught artist and painter based in London… See More

Sophie Rose Walters

Shophie is a 25 year old Birmingham-based female artist. Her main practice involves line work using fine liners and graffiti artwork where she makes her own stencils. Her… See More

Caitlin Flood-Molyneux

Caitlin Flood-Molyneux is an award-winning contemporary Welsh Artist. Their artistic practice investigates the relationship between pop culture imagery and the way in which… See More

Amika Barnett

Amika is a curator and artist based in Birmingham. She has recently curated a series of exhibitions in the city’s iconic Alpha Tower… See More

Bethany Dartnell

Birmingham based artist with a love for Architecture. A keen explorer and concrete lover, my artwork reflects… See More

Tomas Rowell

Rowell uses the relative white space as a chance to direct the eye and to leave a sense of hypnotic unfamiliarity… See More

Imogen Morris

Imogen graduated from Kingston University in Fine Art in 2013, & after taking a few years out to focus on working with young people… See More

Abbie Severn

Abbie, is originally from Pembrokeshire – Wales, and moved to Birmingham 6 years ago to study and never left having fallen in love with the City… See More

Melissa Vipritskaya Topal

Experimenting with material, colour, and form I explore the transformation of flat surfaces into sculptural objects while engaging… See More

Empowering Creative Entrepreneurs

This partnership marks a significant milestone in the shared mission of both companies to support and elevate creative entrepreneurs. By combining forces, Cosimo and Incard are not only facilitating financial support but also providing essential business tools and resources to empower artists to excel and pursue their artistic vision.

About Cosimo

Cosimo is a marketplace dedicated to empowering emerging artists to sell directly to collectors, making art more transparent, accessible, and affordable for all. Artists can leverage the platform for free, with no selling fees, and Cosimo even takes care of the shipping, simplifying the entire process for both artists and collectors.

About Incard

Incard is the world’s first payment solution designed exclusively for e-commerce, marketers, and creators. The company offers a suite of business banking products tailored to meet the unique needs of creative business owners. Incard’s products include business debit cards, integrated accounting tools, and an attractive cashback program to make the most of out of their business.

The entire Cosimo team is incredibly proud to be joining forces in this way to support our artists, and want to again thank Incard for their support in making this programme come to fruition.

August 23, 2023September 11, 2023

Art, Activism and Tomato Soup

Posted by Lauren Parsons

Whether it’s fighting for representation or fighting for a cause, art and activism share an intertwined history. The recent slurry of soup-based defacements of famous artworks staged by climate activists in high-profile galleries around the world, has set a rather unlikely stage for the two to meet.

Activists from Ultimate Generazione in Milan, Extinction Rebellion in Melbourne, Just Stop Oil in London and The Hague and Letzte Generation in Potsdam have all strewn a range of gloopy foodstuffs across (and in some cases even tried to attach themselves to) works from Goya, Van Gogh, Toulouse-Lautrec, Vermeer and more.

One of these incidents in particular, which took place on the 14th of October at around 11am in Room 43 of the National Gallery, saw two protesters in their early twenties proceed to throw a can of what many assume to be cream-of-tomato soup over Vincent Van Gogh’s Sunflowers.

As they did this they chorused the phrase “What is worth more? Art or life?”

In this performance of shelf-stable tomato soup and confounding phrases – the activists created a theatre wherein art and life were not only mutually exclusive, but two forces in active opposition. Whilst Van-Gogh’s Sunflowers, a famous historic and culturally significant work of art, was refashioned into a subsidiary part to serve their larger, more physical and audible depiction of a present-day protest.

Just Stop Oil activists in action. (Source)

It is impossible at this point not to refer back to a similar incident, also taking place in London’s National Gallery, more than 100 years prior. On the 10th March 1914, Mary Richardson slashed into the canvas of Velázquez’s Toilet of Venus with a meat cleaver.

According to Richardson, her attack on ‘the most beautiful woman in mythology’ symbolised her protest for the release from custody of her suffragette comrade, Emily Pankhurst, who she referred to as ‘the most beautiful character in modern history.’

Both Mary Richardson and the Just Stop Oil activists wanted to shock, whether by soup or meat cleaver, however momentary or lasting, they publicly defaced a work of art that held cultural value – giving an aesthetic, visceral recognition of their rallying cause to a captive audience.

In the above scenarios the art is merely an intermediary between the activists and the establishment – but I would wager that there are better routes to this. Art and activism aren’t forces in opposition. They are actually comrades of sorts – both usually take form as experimental, sensory acts that seek to convey a meaning – normally captured within a public space. Protests can be peaceful, art can disrupt, and the roles can obviously be reversed.

As someone who has studied, and spends a lot of time admiring similar types of paintings to that which the activists have made headlines for splattering with liquidised foods, I find myself stuck between respecting the activist’s techniques of protest and wanting to suggest alternatives. I wholeheartedly agree, the status quo must be shaken to incite real change and in a world of such inequality, activism must take various forms.

However, art, for many, is about leaning into the rebellious and I can’t help but think that it is when art and activism work in-tandem that more substantial messages can be crafted – leading us towards more important, nuanced conversations about critical issues such as climate change.

Here are three artists who are doing just that:

Zaria Forman documents the effects of climate change through large-scale, close-ups of ice formations in her pastel drawings.

Lincoln Sea, Greenland 2019 (source)

Mary Mattingly is a multidisciplinary artist applying a range of mediums and materials to explore the relationship between humans and nature.

Life of Objects from the collection House and Universe, 2013 (Source)

Thirza Schaap is a photographer who captures the different materials and forms of rubbish found in the sea or on beaches to create a deeper protest on consumption and the impact of it on the climate.

Plastic Ocean Project (Screencap, Source)

The soup protests have ushered more chatter on the urgent issue of climate change – and hopefully, that chatter can stimulate more significant conversation on how we, as a global community can slow down the effects of it. More generally, the history of defacing art for a cause shows the desperation that ordinary people face, it shows the lengths they will go to in order to hold governments and leaders responsible for issues that need to be addressed by constitutional change.

My point here is to illustrate the fact that messages can be conveyed in many different ways – the collaboration of art and activism can be way more powerful than their division. Art has the ability to bring people together and in times of impending catastrophe, voices are much louder in unison.