I’ve resisted Instagram reels for a long time. I joined Instagram in 2019 for one reason – art. I wanted an easy way to share my art journey with my friends, and since I’d recently retired, with my former colleagues. I also love to follow other artists, for inspiration and the pure enjoyment of looking at the great artwork of others. I enjoyed scrolling through single, static images of artwork, and hated that Instagram was changing it’s algorithm to chase a new trend.

However, I’ve very recently given into the way Instagram prioritizes Reels in its algorithm, and decided to post my first Reel. I really dislike videos that simply move a piece of artwork around, showing it from different angles, just to check off the ‘Reels’ requirement. It adds absolutely nothing to the viewing experience, and in fact, removes a lot. I do like watching time lapse videos of artists painting though, so that is what I decided to try, and I was very pleased with the result! You can watch my first reel here.

After giving it more thought, I’ve decided to continue sharing Reels of my time lapse painting process, and here’s why:

• Proof of Authenticity – In an age of cheap knockoffs and AI, showing the real-time process of creating a painting adds authenticity. By demonstrating the effort, technique, and thought behind my work, it provides undeniable proof that my art is indeed hand painted by me. This also leads more credibility to my website and the art I sell online.
• Increased Visibility – Instagram promotes Reels heavily, giving them more reach than standard posts. By sharing my art process in a Reel, I increase the chance of my content being seen by a wider audience, including potential customers, fans, and collaborators.
• Building Trust – When people see you actively painting, they are more likely to trust that your work is genuine. Transparency about your process builds credibility and reassures potential buyers and followers that they are supporting a real artist.
• Engagement Boost – People love seeing how art is made! Time lapse videos or process snippets of artwork in progress can captivate viewers, leading to higher engagement through likes, comments, and shares. It helps build a deeper connection with your audience.
• Personal Connection – Sharing Reels of my painting process highlights my artistic journey, struggles, and personal touch, which can create an emotional connection with my audience.

And, I also find it fascinating to watch myself paint in the little time lapse video clips!