Artist v. Creator: The Increasing Overlap & Timeless Truths
Recently, while watching a writing masterclass by Cole Schafer, I was inspired to compose this article — finding the timeless truths in a Venn Diagram between Artist and Content Creator.
I’m personally biased and have an aversion to being called a Content Creator. While working with hundreds of Artists, I believe the difference lies in intention.
I believe Artists are ultimately driven by making a difference, whereas Creators (please forgive the strong and stereotypical language) are ultimately looking for a fast pass to become rich and famous.
However, while interviewing Actor, Podcast Host, and Entrepreneur Dana Black, she dropped a truth bomb, as she typically does...
Can I be both? 🤔
Take a look at these quotes and concepts from Artists and Creators. Dana was right: we need to be both…
“It’s all material.”
-Artist
“Everything is content.”
-Creator
Timeless Truth:
Stay aware and document your daily experiences.
Create a collection (or database!) of stories, jokes, songs, etc.
Share when, where, and how you feel called!
“Read with a pen.”
-Artist
“Save this post.”
-Creator
Timeless Truth:
Keep collections of inspiration.
Study the greatest.
Study the latest.
Feed your creativity!
“Write what you know.”
-Artist
“Share everything!”
-Creator
Timeless Truth:
Sharing personal moments helps audiences connect with your humanity.
Your story will inspire others.
“No one cares!”
-Artist
“Everyone cares!”
-Creator
Timeless Truth:
Dualities exist.
What’s special about you? Nothing and everything!
“You are a speck of dust. The world belongs to you!”
You will be your own worst critic and a delusional dreamer.
Scared you’re too much or not enough? Think your story is boring or weird?
Your voice matters. Your story matters.
“Practice, practice, practice.”
-Artist
“Publish, publish, publish.”
-Creator
Timeless Truth:
Everyone starts a beginner.
Quantity increases quality.
Repetition is good learning.
Start now.
Putting it together
I hope you found this insightful. Since starting my company around “Creative Social Media” in 2013, I’ve realized both the importance and impermanence of activity on social networks.
It’s easy to become obsessed with the unlimited possibilities of social media, but also for it to become a giant waste of time without proper strategy and management.
Zooming out, Artists are using social media to boost their careers and personal brands. If they’re smart, they’re also relying on their website and email to increase audience engagement and offline results from their online presence.
Most of our clients are veteran Artists with fears and aversions to digital marketing. I’ve found my job over the last 10 years is to translate traditional tech and business advice for creatives.
I wanted to share a couple of examples and personal stories. First up, the great Artist and Creator, Patrick Page.
While Patrick’s an Artist in a traditional sense (Actor, Writer, Educator), he’s CREATIVELY using new mediums to connect with audiences and advocate for change.
In another instance, I love the way that Tim Murray balances traditional stand-up comedy with online content — finding the overlap.
If you think about it, this is just like seeing Broadway, Beyoncé, or Taylor LIVE versus filmed versions of their performances. Both are fantastic, but I think we all have a bias towards the real thing!
The moment that sealed this expansion and evolution for me (from Artist to Creator) was seeing Mary Poppins Returns with my mom. She leaned over and asked me “Do you miss dancing?”
But as I was watching, I realized I didn’t want to be a dancing chimney sweep or even Lin Manuel-Miranda. These days, I’d rather be Walt Disney — creating things and inspiring others to go after their dreams!
It feels audacious to say, but I’m curious to hear your thoughts after reading these comparisons of Artist & Creator.
Traditional Artists need to think like creators to have the biggest impact and financial return.
Content Creators need to be artistic to continuously stand out and engage audiences.
Determine your overlap! There are new mediums, new audiences, and new opportunities… what do you want to create today?
