Why I Quit Social Media (Again), And What Comes Next

Leaving Social Media Isn’t New for Me

In a dramatic twist yesterday, I deleted my TikTok and deactivated my Instagram. If you’ve read my blog, you know this is not the first time I’ve left social media. Full disclosure: I still have my YouTube and Pinterest, but those feel more like search engines than social platforms.

This is actually my third Instagram account. I deleted my personal account in 2019. I started an art account in 2021, left in January of 2024, then started it again in November 2024 for work. As of right now, I do not need it for my job, and so I’ve lost interest again. It seems like I may have a pattern of getting out in the new year.

Why I’m Stepping Away This Time

I simply got tired of feeding the machine, and everything that machine stands for. Right now, it’s just not a place I want to hang out or put any of my energy into.

I also know that the more we look at what other people are doing and what is liked by their followers, it can slowly start to shift what it is that we create. This is not always a conscious thing that we do, but it happens nonetheless, and I don’t want what I create to start to change based on public opinion.

The Pressure Artists Are Under (And Why I’m Resisting It)

I really hate that we as artists have been forced down this path, and then every content creator tells you this is how it is done and this is how you have to do it to be successful in this day and age. Maybe it’s true, but right now I refuse to believe it.

Maybe I’m too cynical and think that they all usually have an ulterior motive, selling me on some social media class or tools I “need” to build a following or whatever. But I’ve also always been one to take the road less followed.

How I’m Going to Share My Art and Be Found in 2026 Without Social Media

Honestly, that is my biggest concern. But I’m in the fortunate position that I do not have to rely on my art to pay my bills. I would love it if someday that were the case, but as for now, I’m just getting started.

So my plan is to try and do in-person shows. It is honestly the best way I connect with people. Maybe because I grew up as a teen without social media and I worked in retail, I love to talk to people in person about my art.

I love helping people find the right piece for a room or for a friend who loves fantasy. And I suppose you can do that on social media too, but it’s just flooded with so much junk, rage bait, noise, and endless scrolling.

Choosing Time, Focus, and a Quieter Life

It comes down to this: do I want to spend hours creating content for Instagram, or do I want to take that time to paint, blog, read, or play games?

I say I want to take my life back. My friends and family are already in touch with me.

I’m Not Giving Up on Art

I will keep you posted here on my blog. And if you want regular updates, or want to see if I’ve just completely lost it or given up on art by the end of the year, sign up for my newsletter below.

I should be clear: I do not plan to give up on my art. I love it whether it makes me money or not. I have to create.