Why Supporting Creatives Matters & How You Can Make a Difference

Check out Shannon Shine art at www.shannonshineart.com

Imagine a world without music, art, film, literature, or innovation. What if your favorite artists, musicians, and creators stopped sharing their work out of fear that no one would support them? Creativity fuels culture, connection, and inspiration, yet many creatives struggle to make a living from their passions.

In this article, we’ll dive into why supporting creatives is essential, how social media has changed the landscape for artists, and simple yet powerful ways you can support the artists, musicians, and creators in your life—even if you’re on a budget.

The Reality of Being a Creative in Today’s World

We are living in a modern renaissance, where artists and creatives are encouraged to share their work. However, the rise of social media, algorithms, and digital competition has made it harder than ever for creatives to get their work seen.

Unlike in past eras where artists relied on patrons, galleries, and publishers, today’s creators often have to wear many hats—they are not only artists but also marketers, content creators, and entrepreneurs. The pressure to constantly promote, engage, and monetize can be overwhelming.

This is why every like, comment, share, and purchase truly matters.


Why Supporting Creatives Is Important

  1. Creativity Fuels Culture & Innovation
    The arts shape our world. Without creative expression, we wouldn’t have music, literature, fashion, design, movies, or digital media. Supporting creatives helps preserve and expand cultural narratives that inspire generations.

  2. Artists Take Risks & Make the World More Vibrant
    Creating something and putting it out into the world requires courage. Every artist, musician, writer, and performer faces self-doubt, fear of failure, and rejection—but they do it anyway. By supporting them, you encourage more creative risk-taking and authenticity.

  3. Many Creatives Struggle Financially
    Contrary to popular belief, most artists don’t make millions. Many juggle multiple jobs to sustain their creative practice. When you support a creative, you're helping them continue doing what they love and share their gifts with the world.

  4. Art, Music, and Creativity Are Forms of Healing
    Many people use art as a form of self-expression, healing, and therapy. Whether it's a painting, a song, or a book, creative works can deeply impact people’s mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Supporting the arts means supporting mental health and emotional expression.

  5. Word of Mouth Is Still the Best Marketing
    With social media algorithms limiting reach, word-of-mouth support is more valuable than ever. Simply sharing an artist’s work, telling a friend, or leaving a review can help a creative gain exposure and new opportunities.


Ways to Support Creatives (Even for Free!)

Not everyone can afford to buy artwork or attend events, but there are so many ways to support creatives that don’t cost a dime. Here’s a list of simple yet impactful ways to uplift the creatives in your life:

Shannon Shine connects with a happy supporter at her House Of Art Solo Show
Check out more work at www.ShannonShineArt.com

  • Like, comment, and share their posts on social media (this helps beat the algorithm!)

  • Follow their pages and engage regularly to show support

  • Tell your friends about them (word-of-mouth recommendations are gold)

  • Leave a review for their work, products, or services

  • Subscribe to their newsletter to stay updated and help boost their reach

  • Attend their free events, livestreams, or art shows

  • Give them credit if you share their work or ideas

  • Tag them in opportunities or job postings that match their skills

  • Listen to their podcast, music, or watch their videos (watch time matters!)


💰 Low-Cost Ways to Support Creatives:

  • Buy their art, music, books, or products

  • Tip them on platforms like Buy Me a Coffee, Patreon, or Venmo

  • Sign up for their workshops, classes, or courses

  • Commission custom artwork or projects

  • Donate supplies or resources they might need

  • Support their crowdfunding campaigns

  • Purchase event tickets or merchandise




🚀 Bigger Ways to Support Creatives:

  • Sponsor them or their projects (great for businesses and brands!)

  • Collaborate with them on events, projects, or initiatives

  • Hire them for their skills and talents

  • Introduce them to valuable connections in their industry

  • Become a patron or long-term supporter




The Future of Creativity Depends on Us

It takes a lot for artists to put their work out into the world. Whether it's a painting, a song, a film, or a performance, every creative effort is a leap of faith. Without support, many creatives struggle to sustain their work, and some may even give up on their dreams.

If we want a world filled with art, music, innovation, and beauty, we must actively support and uplift creatives. A small action—like sharing a post, leaving a kind comment, or purchasing a piece of art—can have a huge impact on someone’s ability to keep creating.

So here’s the call: Support the arts, share the arts, and spread the word. Because when we lift each other up, we all shine brighter.

🎧 Listen to the full episode now on We Are Artists Podcast!

🔹 Are you an artist or creative? Drop your links in the comments below—we’d love to support you! 🎨🎶✨

🔗 Follow We Are Artists Podcast for more inspiring episodes!

Another unique way to support your creative friends is attending their workshops and classes at local events. Many creatives love sharing their offerings in these fun inclusive ways AND you get to take something with you in return! It’s a win win for everyone.

Silver Arrow Art and Shannon Shine showcasing their pieces at the Shine Time Studios Princeton Location in 2024.