The art world is often seen as a space reserved for those with amazing networking skills and endless social connections. Gallery events, art shows, and festivals seem filled with confident voices discussing inspiration and technique. For someone like me—who lacks natural networking skills—that environment can feel intimidating, even unapproachable.
Yet, art has always been about connection, and thankfully, it’s a connection that doesn’t always need words. My desire to become a contributor to the art scene, rather than just a consumer, has been shaped by my ability to engage with the art itself. It’s been messy, humbling, and beautiful all at once, and I’m still not there.
The Silent Conversation with Art
Art speaks without demanding anything in return. A vibrant mural on the side of a building can spark joy, curiosity, or reflection without needing an introduction or an explanation. That’s where I found my entry point—through the experience of interacting with street art. I didn’t have to navigate conversations with gatekeepers or impress anyone with industry jargon or pussyfoot around how I feel about the art. I simply showed up and let the art do what it does best: communicate.
This silent conversation with art became my way of contributing. With the help of Mr. Ruddick’s mural cataloguing, I began the street art tours that allowed others to experience these works up close. I wasn’t creating the art, but I was creating a bridge for others to connect with it. And that mattered.
The Struggles of Not Knowing the Right People
Despite this deep connection to the art itself, my lack of networking skills has presented challenges. I often still feel like an outsider in spaces where artists and organizers seem to effortlessly connect, and it’s my own fault. Opportunities have sometimes slipped by simply because I didn’t know the right person to ask or didn’t have the confidence to approach someone.
There are times I question whether I even belong in the art scene at all. Am I doing enough? Do my contributions matter if I’m not part of the inner circle? These doubts linger, but I find solace in returning to the art itself.
Finding My Role as a Contributor
Over time, I have realized that contributing to the art scene doesn’t always require traditional networking. I have committed to engaging meaningfully by:
•Curating Experiences: Presenting a platform for engagement and an understanding that varying perspectives of something can be valid.
•Amplifying Voices: Highlighting the work of artists and sharing their stories through blog posts and social media.
Creating Space for Interaction: Incorporating real-time interactions on my tours where participants are able to leave their own impressions, making them part of the artistic dialogue.
These contributions are valuable. They foster connection, spark conversations, and build a sense of community.
Art as a Language Beyond Words
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that art invites everyone to engage on their own terms. My journey to be more than a consumer is guided by this truth.
For anyone who feels intimidated by the idea of “fitting into” the art scene, know that your connection to art is enough. Find your way to contribute, whether it’s through curating, documenting, sharing, or simply showing up.
There’s room for everyone to leave their mark—even if that mark isn’t made with paint.
Claudia
Owner, ATL Street Art Tours
Artist:
Ryshu
IG: @ryshu
Mr. Art Ruddick
IG: atlanta_street_art_map
Comments