There are few things Instagram hasn’t upended. From the release strategy for new films to the casting of runway models, the app has displaced many of the systems once key to commercial and critical success. More and more emerging artists are using the platform to disseminate their work, connect directly with their audience and build public profiles as a result. But despite this recent disintermediation, art galleries are vital as ever.

Instagram is a phenomenal tool for sharing, but the technology behind it amplifies what it already knows you like. In contrast, great art is often boundary-pushing and defies easy categorization. The people behind art galleries (of any size) learn about emerging artists by building relationships, relying on years of experience and trusted colleagues to come across new talent and build a market for their work. And that human touch is especially important for artists who choose not to partake in social media at all (there are some great ones who don’t). A great gallery helps build a career in so many ways, including (and most importantly) by introducing museum curators to an artist’s work so they can be shown in public institutions.

ART, GALLERIES AND THE AGE OF INSTAGRAM

ART, GALLERIES AND THE AGE OF INSTAGRAM