2016’s Hottest Art Events and Organizations from Around the Globe

ANNE & MARK’S ART PARTY
San Jose, California
Billed as an “Occasional and Irrational San Jose Arts Fest,” Anne & Mark’s Art Party is an amazing art happening. The most recent unveiling was this past September, but no matter when it happens, the Art Party is an integral part of the Northern California art scene. It’s been described as “Mad Max meets Moulin Rouge” and “Burning Man meets Venice Biennale.” You’ve got to experience it to understand it. That is, whenever it comes around again.

ART DESIGN CONSULTANTS’
“ART COMES ALIVE” AWARDS
Cincinnati, Ohio
Art Design Consultants proudly sponsors Art Comes Alive (ACA), an annual fine art contest and exhibit that awards the brightest and best artists working in North America in a variety of categories. The awards provide a great opportunity for artists to be acknowledged for their talents, to gain exposure, and to win purchase awards and gallery contracts.

ARTBLEND
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Artblend takes a new approach to every artist who comes into their gallery or who is featured at one of the many art shows where the gallery exhibits. Artblend is a full-service, art-related business based in Fort Lauderdale, giving emerging, mid-career, and established artists the marketing expertise that they need to build their business.

CONTEMPORARY ART
PROJECTS USA
Miami, Florida
Headquartered in Miami, Contemporary Art Projects USA is dedicated to nurturing new contemporary art by providing exhibition opportunities and resources for emerging artists and curators. Their mission is to promote art appreciation within the international community and to generate resources that support artists’ creative endeavors. From biennials and gala auctions to exhibitions and major international art shows, they are always on the scene.

GALLERY EDEL
Osaka, Japan
Gallery Edel is committed to a completely new interpretation and perspective on exhibiting the most significant and important art trends in Japanese contemporary art and international contemporary art. The foremost objective of Gallery Edel is to enhance the experience of both artmaking and art appreciation by embracing the culture of art worldwide. The gallery’s approach is exemplified by their 2016 exhibitions at Art Santa Fe and Red Dot Miami, where they are showing the work of recent Japanese art phenomenon Yayoi Kusama.

MARC STRAUS GALLERY
New York, New York
Marc Straus is one of New York’s leading contemporary art galleries, located on theLower East Side of Manhattan. The gallery identifies and fosters some of the best international talent, representing 17 artists from 13 different countries, most of whom have not been shown in the U.S. before. Additionally, the gallery has taken a position of showing older artists who have not for decades, or in some cases ever, been looked at in the proper light. Their show and exhibition of artist Todd Murphy exemplifies the impact of that position and vision.

SFMOMA
San Francisco, California
After years of great anticipation and with a blizzard of red confetti, one of the most anticipated openings and art events of the year came to fruition. The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) opened its doors to the public in May 2016, and changed the look and feel of exhibiting modern contemporary art for years to come. Attended by dignitaries, renowned artists, and members of the art community far and wide, the festivities included a gala celebration and a grand public opening.

TEFAF
New York, New York
Founded by art dealers in 1988 and run as a non-profit foundation, TEFAF has a proud history of showcasing masterpieces in every category of art and design – from antiques, Old Masters, and Haute Joaillerie to contemporary painting, works on paper, and 20th century design. It presents two fairs in New York: TEFAF New York Fall and TEFAF New York Spring, held in October and May, respectively.

Thanks to the Internet and new trends, the art world has expanded beyond physical galleries. Artists can now connect with a global audience through strategic online marketing. To boost art sales, understanding and implementing effective digital strategies is crucial. 

This article will show you various techniques that artists can use to enhance their online presence, engage with potential buyers, and ultimately drive sales.

Understanding Your Audience

Knowing who appreciates your art and who is likely to purchase it will inform every marketing decision you make. Create buyer personas that include demographics, interests, and purchasing behavior. Use social media analytics and website data to gather insights about your audience.

Building an Engaging Website

A professional, user-friendly website is vital for any artist aiming to boost art sales. Your website serves as a central hub for potential buyers, so it should showcase your portfolio, provide information about your art, and facilitate easy purchasing options. Here are some essential elements to include:

• High-Quality Images: Ensure that your artwork is presented in high resolution. This gives potential buyers a clear view of your art, making them more likely to purchase. In case you make lifestyle images, you could use Room Mockups by ArtPlacer.
• E-commerce Functionality: Implement an easy-to-navigate online store. Platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce can help you set this up without requiring extensive technical knowledge.
• Artist Bio and Story: Share your artistic journey. Buyers often connect more with art when they understand the artist behind it.
• Contact Information: Make it easy for potential buyers to reach you with questions or custom requests.
• Blog Section: A blog can drive traffic to your site, improving your SEO and allowing you to connect with your audience through articles about your creative process, art history, or industry trends.

Harnessing Social Media

Social media platforms are indispensable for artists. They allow you to showcase your work, engage with followers, and promote sales. Here are some strategies to consider:

• Choose the Right Platforms: Focus on platforms where your audience is most active. Instagram and Pinterest are particularly effective for visual content, while Facebook can help you engage with local buyers.
• Create Engaging Content: Share not just finished pieces, but also behind-the-scenes looks at your creative process, works in progress, and personal stories. Engaging content can foster a connection with your audience.
• Utilize Hashtags: Using relevant hashtags can increase the visibility of your posts. Research trending hashtags within the art community and incorporate them into your social media strategy.
• Collaborate with Other Artists: Partnering with fellow artists for joint promotions or exhibitions can expand your reach and introduce you to new audiences.
• Run Paid Ads: Consider using targeted social media ads to promote specific artworks or sales events. Platforms like Facebook and Instagram offer robust advertising tools that can be tailored to your audience.

Email Marketing

Email marketing remains one of the most effective ways to communicate directly with your audience. Building a mailing list allows you to share updates, exclusive offers, and new artwork directly with interested buyers. Here’s how to leverage email marketing for artists:

• Create a Sign-Up Form: Place an email sign-up form on your website and social media profiles. Offer an incentive, such as a discount on their first purchase, to encourage sign-ups.
• Segment Your Audience: Tailor your emails to different segments of your audience. For example, send personalized messages to collectors, casual followers, or those who have previously made a purchase.
• Craft Compelling Content: Your emails should be visually appealing and informative. Include high-quality images of your artwork, share upcoming exhibitions, and provide insights into your creative process.
• Regular Updates: Send regular newsletters to keep your audience engaged. Share your latest works, upcoming events, and any special promotions you may have.

SEO and Content Marketing

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is crucial for increasing the visibility of your website and driving organic traffic. Here are some strategies to improve your SEO:

• Keyword Research: Identify keywords related to art sales that potential buyers might use when searching online. Use tools like Google Keyword Planner to find effective keywords.
• Optimize Your Website: Include relevant keywords in your website’s content, meta descriptions, and image alt texts. This will help search engines understand what your site is about.
• Create Valuable Content: Writing blog posts that provide value to your audience can help attract visitors to your site. Topics might include art techniques, art trends, or tips for new collectors.
• Backlinking: Collaborate with art blogs or influencers to create backlinks to your site. This not only increases traffic but also enhances your site’s credibility in the eyes of search engines.

Online Art Marketplaces

In addition to promoting your own website, consider leveraging online art marketplaces to increase art sales. Websites like Etsy, Saatchi Art, and Artfinder allow artists to reach a wider audience without the need to build their own platform. These marketplaces often have built-in marketing tools and a loyal customer base looking specifically for art.

• Create Compelling Listings: When using these platforms, ensure that your listings are well-crafted with high-quality images and detailed descriptions.
• Stay Active: Regularly update your listings and engage with customers to increase visibility and sales potential.

Networking and Building Community

Building a community around your art can significantly boost your visibility and art sales. Here’s how to foster connections:

• Participate in Online Art Forums: Engage with other artists and collectors on platforms like Reddit or dedicated art forums. Sharing your expertise and participating in discussions can enhance your reputation.
• Attend Virtual Art Events: Join webinars, virtual galleries, or online art fairs. These events offer networking opportunities and can expose your work to potential buyers.
• Engage with Local Art Communities: Even in a digital world, local connections can be valuable. Collaborate with local galleries or art organizations to gain exposure.

Analyzing and Adjusting Strategies

Finally, continually analyze the effectiveness of your marketing strategies. Use tools like Google Analytics and social media insights to track visitor behavior and sales. This data can inform your decisions and help you refine your strategies over time.

Michael Findlay started directing gallery programs in 1960s New York and has written about that period in his latest book, Portrait of the Art Dealer as a Young Man: New York in the Sixties.

I talk with Michael about his extensive career and how things have changed over the past 60 years.

He discusses the qualities of a good collector, the evolving relationship between dealer and artist, and the current focus of many collectors on art as investment rather than appreciation. We also talk about the importance of looking—of immersing oneself in the art rather than relying on text and labels.

We finish up with a funny personal story about Andy Warhol.

A comprehensive guide to the must-see events at the largest art show in the U.S.

AQUA ART MIAMI
DECEMBER 1–4
Aqua Hotel
1530 Collins Ave, Miami Beach
www.aquaartmiami.com
In the Aqua Hotel in Miami Beach, Aqua Art Miami will celebrate its 12th edition in 2016. Aqua has gained recognition for its focus on supporting an international gathering of young and established galleries with strong emerging and mid-career artists. The 2016 edition will feature 47 international exhibitors showcasing fresh new works. Because it’s set within a hotel, Aqua Art Miami is also a place to relax, take a break, and rest your feet.

ART BASEL MIAMI BEACH
DECEMBER 1–4
Miami Beach Convention Center
Meridian Avenue and 19th Street,
Miami Beach
www.artbasel.com
Art Basel Miami Beach is the mega-show during Miami Art Week. Certainly, it’s the biggest show as well, with more than 260 galleries exhibiting works from North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. From masterworks to newly created pieces by emerging stars, a full range of paintings, sculptures, drawings, installations, photographs, and film are showcased. Large-scale works become part of the outdoor landscape nearby.

ART MIAMI
NOVEMBER 29–DECEMBER 4
Midtown Miami | Wynwood
3101 NE 1st Avenue, Miami
www.artmiamifair.com
Art Miami is the original and longest-running contemporary art fair in Miami and continues to showcase a variety of unparalleled art from more than 125 international galleries. It is a must-attend event for serious collectors, curators, museum directors, and interior designers to see important work at the forefront of the international contemporary art movement.

CONTEXT ART MIAMI
NOVEMBER 29–DECEMBER 4
Midtown | Wynwood Arts District
118 NE 34th Street
FL 33127 Miami
www.contextartmiami.com
CONTEXT Art Miami, sister fair to Art Miami, has established itself as a serious marketplace for top collectors to acquire important works from a collection of specially curated international galleries representing emerging and mid-career artists producing cutting-edge works of art.

DESIGN MIAMI
NOVEMBER 30–DECEMBER 4
Miami Beach Convention Center
Meridian Avenue and 19th Street, Miami Beach
http://miami2015.designmiami.com
This global design forum brings together some of the most influential collectors, gallerists, designers, curators, and critics from around the world in celebration of design culture and commerce.

FRIDGE ART FAIR MIAMI
DECEMBER 3–6
The Betsy Hotel
1440 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach
www.fridgeartfair.com
Fridge Art Fair Miami, organized by artist Eric Ginsburg, features the innovative works of artists, collectives, and galleries—positioned as a boutique, soft-sell venue for all to enjoy in the newly renovated Betsy Hotel.

 

INK MIAMI ART FAIR
NOVEMBER 30–DECEMBER 4
Suites of Dorchester
1850 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach
www.inkartfair.com
INK Miami is a contemporary art fair that is unique among Miami’s fairs for its focus on contemporary works on paper by internationally renowned artists. Sponsored by the International Fine Print Dealers Association, the fair selects exhibitors from among members of the Association for their outstanding ability to offer collectors a diverse survey of 20th century masterworks and just-published editions by leading contemporary artists.

MIAMI PROJECT
DECEMBER 1–4
6625 Indian Creek Drive, Miami Beach
www.miami-project.com
Miami Project 5, a show produced by Art Market Productions, will be erected atop and within an expansive structure located in Miami Beach, and built seamlessly into the existing architecture, elegantly housing 50 exhibiting modern and contemporary galleries from around the world and the diverse selection of artwork created by the artists they represent.

MIAMI RIVER ART FAIR
DECEMBER 1–4
Downtown Miami Convention Center
400 SE Second Ave, Miami
http://miamiriverartfair.com
Now in its 5th year, the Miami River Art Fair is an international, contemporary art fair and the only riverfront art fair held during Miami Art Week. It features both indoor exhibitions and a one-of-a-kind Riverwalk Sculpture Mall, which shows an international collection of monumental sculpture on the banks of the Miami River.

NADA ART FAIR
DECEMBER 1–4
Deauville Beach Resort
6701 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach
www.newartdealers.org
Founded in 2002, New Art Dealers Alliance (NADA) is a not-for-profit collective of professionals dedicated to the cultivation, support, and advancement of new voices in contemporary art. NADA Art Fair is a collection of the world’s youngest and strongest art galleries dealing with emerging contemporary art. It is the only major American art fair to be run by a non-profit organization.

PINTA MIAMI
NOVEMBER 29–DECEMBER 4
Mana Wynwood
318 NW 23rd Street, Miami
www.pintamiami.com
Created in 2007, Pinta is a curated boutique art fair dedicated to the art of Latin America, Spain, and Portugal. The galleries and artists shown at the fair foster Pinta’s mission of giving greater exposure to Latin American and Iberian art in the marketplace.

PULSE MIAMI BEACH
DECEMBER 1–4
Indian Beach Park
46th Street & Collins Avenue, Miami Beach
www.pulse-art.com
PULSE showcases progressive art from an international community of emerging and established galleries, most of which present three artists or fewer.

RED DOT MIAMI
NOVEMBER 30–DECEMBER 4
1700 NE 2nd Avenue at NE 17th Street, Miami
www.reddotmiami.com
A juried, contemporary art show in the heart of Miami, Red Dot Miami features an international slate of galleries. Now in its 10th year, the show combines galleries showcasing over 500 leading contemporary artists with five days of cutting edge art, Spotlight Galleries, Art Labs, Art Talks, entertainment, and special events.

SATELLITE
DECEMBER 1–4
The Parisian Hotel
1510 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach
www.satellite-show.com
Now in its second year, SATELLITE Art Show is an alternative art fair that presents new and exciting projects that span the gamut of art, music, performance, installation, new media, and tech. SATELLITE 2.0 will once again emphasize concept driven rooms, rather than the typical salon-style hang of the standard fairs.

SCOPE MIAMI BEACH
NOVEMBER 29–DECEMBER 4
1000 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach
www.scope-art.com
SCOPE Miami will once again present groundbreaking work, alongside special programming, encompassing music, design, and fashion. Established as an incubator for emerging work, SCOPE celebrates its 16th year of introducing new galleries to the contemporary market.

SPECTRUM MIAMI
NOVEMBER 30–DECEMBER 4
1700 NE 2nd Avenue at NE 17th Street, Miami
http://spectrum-miami.com
Spectrum Miami is a juried, contemporary art show featuring an international slate of contemporary artists and galleries. Spectrum is more than just an art show—it’s an immersive fine art experience where guests attend exciting events, live performances, and educational seminars, as well as enjoy signature programs such as Spotlight Artists, LaunchPad, Art Labs, and Art Talks.

UNTITLED, ART
NOVEMBER 30–DECEMBER 4
Ocean Drive and 12th Street, Miami Beach
http://art-untitled.com
With a commitment to presenting exceptional contemporary art, Untitled, Art’s innovative approach to the art fair model will feature an international array of galleries, non-profits, and institutions, in addition to a variety of special projects, performances, and installations.

WYNWOOD WALLS
NOVEMBER 29–DECEMBER 4
2520 NW 2nd Avenue, Miami
www.thewynwoodwalls.com
The Wynwood Walls Project was conceived by community developer Tony Goldman in 2009. The concept has transformed
Wynwood’s warehouse buildings into giant canvases for acollective street art project. Wynwood Walls has become a major art statement incorporating graffiti into the newest work from artists around the globe. It’s literally become a gallery on the streets.

X CONTEMPORARY
NOVEMBER 30–DECEMBER 4
Nobu Hotel
4525 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach
http://x-contemporary.com
X Contemporary’s second edition will focus on exhibitors representing emerging and mid-career artists. The symbol X represents a destination point and an area of intersection, an evocative title for an art fair that emphasizes introducing narratives that create a crossover between the visual and performing arts and invites unique music, fashion, and brand collaborations.

If you are an artist, you should already know how difficult it is to enter the sales world. From painters and visual artists to photographers and illustrators, as well as gallerists and curators, the need for a distinct brand has never been more critical. 

Branding is not just about a logo or a catchy tagline; it’s the essence of how artists present themselves to the world. In this article, we will explore the importance of branding for artists and how it can significantly influence their success across both physical and digital spaces.

Understanding Branding

At its core, branding is the process of creating a unique identity for a product or individual. For artists, this involves defining who they are, what they stand for, and how they want to be perceived by their audience. Effective branding goes beyond visual elements; it encompasses the artist’s style, message, values, and the emotional connection they create with their audience.

Why Branding Matters

Differentiation in a Crowded Market

The internet is teeming with talented artists, making it crucial to stand out. A strong brand helps artists differentiate themselves from their peers. This differentiation can come from various factors, such as unique artistic style, storytelling ability, or the themes they explore in their work. By establishing a clear brand identity, artists can carve out a niche for themselves, making it easier for people interested in their art to discover and remember them. If you’re looking for ways to build a unique artist brand, these strategies can help you stand out.

Building Trust and Credibility

Branding fosters trust. When artists consistently present themselves in a professional manner, they build credibility with their audience. For more on enhancing your professional image, check out how to create a Facebook page for your art. This is especially important in an age where audiences are bombarded with content and seek authenticity in the artists they support. A well-defined brand can reassure potential art buyers that they are engaging with a serious artist rather than just another fleeting online presence.

Creating Emotional Connections

Branding is about storytelling. It allows artists to share their creative journey, artistic values, and the inspiration behind their work. When artists share their stories, they create emotional connections with their audience. Learn how to use storytelling to sell your art and deepen these connections. People interested in your artworks are more likely to support artists whose stories resonate with them. This emotional bond can lead to increased loyalty, engagement, and ultimately, sales.

Enhancing Marketing Efforts

A strong brand makes marketing more effective. Artists can leverage their branding across various platforms, ensuring a consistent message that resonates with their target audience. Whether it’s through social media, email newsletters, or a personal website, a cohesive brand presence can streamline marketing efforts and improve overall visibility. Consider these tips on email marketing for artists to further enhance your outreach. When your audience recognizes an artist’s brand, they are more likely to engage with their content and share it with others.

Key Elements of Effective Branding for Artists

Visual Identity

The visual aspects of branding, including logos, color schemes, and typography, play a vital role in establishing an artist’s presence. These elements should reflect the artist’s personality and artistic style. For example, a painter specializing in vibrant landscapes might choose a palette of bright colors and flowing, natural shapes that reflect the essence of their work. Consistency in visual identity across all platforms strengthens brand recognition.

Artistic Voice and Style

An artist’s voice is an integral part of their brand. This encompasses the themes, messages, and emotions that resonate in their work. Explore more on developing a unique artistic style and how it can define your brand. Artists should strive to develop a unique style that sets them apart from others. This may involve experimenting with different mediums, techniques, or narratives. A distinct artistic voice helps in attracting the right audience and establishing a loyal following of people interested in their work.

Online Presence and Engagement

In the digital age, an artist’s presence across digital platforms is crucial. This includes having a professional website, active social media accounts, and a portfolio that showcases their work. Engaging with fans and followers is also vital. Artists should respond to comments, share behind-the-scenes content, and create a dialogue with their audience. This interaction not only humanizes the artist but also fosters a sense of community.

Storytelling

Effective branding involves compelling storytelling. Artists should share their journey, inspirations, and the process behind their work. This not only makes the artist relatable but also enriches the audience’s experience. Stories can be shared through blog posts, social media updates, or video content. By weaving narratives into their branding, artists can captivate their audience and encourage them to invest in their journey.

Consistency Across Platforms

Consistency is key in branding. Artists should ensure that their branding is cohesive across all platforms, from social media and their personal website to physical promotional materials used in galleries and art shows. This consistency helps reinforce their identity and makes it easier for their audience to recognize them. Additionally, a cohesive brand presence builds trust and professionalism, further solidifying the artist’s reputation in the online space.

The Impact of Branding on Sales and Opportunities

A well-established brand can significantly impact an artist’s ability to sell their work and attract opportunities. When people interested in your artworks feel a connection to an artist’s brand, they are more likely to purchase artwork, prints, or commissioned pieces. Additionally, a strong brand can lead to collaboration opportunities, sponsorships, and even gallery shows. For personalized support in growing your art business, explore our business coaching for artists services. Artists who effectively leverage their branding can expand their reach and create multiple income streams.

Branding is an essential aspect of success for online artists. It serves as the foundation for differentiation, trust-building, emotional connection, and effective marketing. By understanding and investing in their brand, artists can create a unique identity that resonates with their audience and propels their careers forward in both physical and digital realms. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, those who prioritize branding will be better positioned to navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and leave a lasting impact on the art world.

“It isn’t just being able to create. It is being able to cope with that world to engage with that world to embrace that world.”

“I thought it was a reinvention, but I’m finding now that it was simply opening up into a new phase and bringing everything with me into that because it’s a very high-powered environment.”

“All people want the same thing. All people are concerned about being treated well, being treated with respect, being seen, and not being taken advantage of in any way.”

“You cannot underestimate the power of showing up for something on a daily basis in the studio, reaching out and, and just doing it step by step … break it down into manageable chunks.”

“You need to have that enthusiasm for yourself, whether it’s quiet and meditative and in the flow of things in the studio or whether it’s interacting with other people. You have to have that joy because otherwise, why, why are we doing this?”

By Dan B. Shaw

Where in the world does creativity thrive the most? Canva looked at four countries selected as some of the “most creative” in the latest ranking of the Global Creativity Index and found that the US, UK, Australia, and New Zealand contributed around $1 billion in total last year to their respective governmental art programs, which seek to inspire and encourage art and creativity that in turn further build their economies. 

The data shows that the UK has invested over 300% more government funding of their central arts programs than the US and has increased funding by 11% over the past 10 years. Australia has increased investment into their arts programs by 18% and New Zealand by 33% while the US remains the same as it was 10 years ago with no increase in funding.

This means that federal funding in the US is just $0.47 per capita compared to the UK which is $9.46 per capita, Australia which is $5.2 per capita, and New Zealand which is $5.8 per capita.

However, this has not affected the revenue they have witnessed in their creative industries, with the US creative industry worth a massive $804 billion, followed by the UK at $130.6 billion and Australia and New Zealand at $58.7 billion and $2.4 billion respectively.

Canva also investigated the number of creative art degrees completed in the four countries over the past 10 years and found:

• The number of completed visual and performing arts degrees in the US has risen by 7% since 2006-07
• The number of completed creative arts & design degrees in the UK has risen by 17% over the past 10 years
• The number of completed creative arts degrees in Australia has risen by 21% over the past 10 years
• The number of completed creative arts degrees in New Zealand has dropped by 0.5% since 2009.

 

These increases mask the threats to creative industries and creativity across the world. Terry Flew, Professor of Creative Industry Studies, Queensland University of Technology in Brisbane, Australia, says, “If there is a global economic downturn, this will disproportionately affect the creative industries. The challenge of digitalization is strong, too, but I also think that imagination exists to make this work, if digital platforms can be convinced (or compelled if required) to be supportive.”

He also cited policy indifference as one of the largest threats to creative industries and creativity across the world at present: “The resurgence of populist nationalism is also an issue, since cultural and creative exports tend to be connected with a more cosmopolitan mindset and openness to cultures from around the globe. They also face existential threats from the power of digital platforms, and their capacity to control distribution to the detriment of content creators.”

But despite challenges, countries can still thrive, and even without the hefty funding as in the US and the UK. Some regions cannot afford to invest into the creative industries or have various other demanding priorities to address. Professor Flew speaks about the bottom-up nature of some regions, such as Nollywood in Nigeria: “Lack of development is also often tied to problems in state capacity, such as corruption or excessive military spending, which in turn inhibits development. In these regions, CCI development is often bottom-up in nature, for example Nollywood cinema in Nigeria – a key challenge is to “formalize” these often informal sectors while retaining their market dynamism.”

Developing creative regions such as Latin America and Africa does seem to be showing some strong positive movements. The British Council’s report on the Brazilian Creative Economy found that there are one million creative jobs in Brazil and 200,000 creative businesses that account for 2.64% of its GDP—an almost 70% increase in the last decade. This is growing at an annual rate of 4.6% per year–more than double the growth of Brazilian economy overall. Fashion is the leading creative industry, followed by music, film and online media, which are all growing in Brazil. Meanwhile, Africa has one of the youngest populations in the world, and the growth of digital and mobile technology and systems means there’s many opportunities for progress powered by creative minds.

As Professor Flew mentions, Nigeria’s booming film industry, named Nollywood, has become the second largest film industry in the world, producing around 1,500 films every year–definitely an impressive number. Over a million people are employed in the industry, making it the country’s largest employer after agriculture, while also making close to $600 million annually, highlighting the wealth of creativity and demand for consuming it across the continent.

Indeed, the worldwide streaming service Netflix, worth billions of dollars, and a juggernaut of creativity and distribution online, has acquired films made in Nollywood and has even been inspired by Africa. They have recently announced the release date of “Queen Sono”, an spy show which will ”showcase an African aesthetic onscreen that the rest of the world has never had a chance to see… exploring the origins of contemporary trends through African eyes and the breadth of ideas that this vast continent has to offer,” according to Dorothy Ghettuba, head of International Originals for Africa at Netflix.

With African art and creativity clearly in high demand, I spoke to the founder of Afripedia, a website where African creatives worldwide can collaborate, create opportunities and inspire the next generation. “While producing the Afripedia series, it became evident that there was a significant group of talents across the continent who had remained underrepresented in the global creative industry,” explains Teddy Goitom, who co-founded the Afripedia project alongside Senay Berha. “Our aim is for Afripedia to serve as the premier search engine to find the best creative talents of African descent, a platform for creative collaborations across Africa and her diaspora, and a global employment pool for future top talents,” says Goitom.

Creativity drives success in every country that supports it. Whether it comes from government sources or independent organisations, investing in arts and culture has a significant beneficial impact on countries as a whole. And with this comes the growth, innovation and fresh ideas that will shape the global society of the future.

About Dan B. Shaw

With many family members working inside the world of art as designers, students and graffiti artists, Shaw has been inspired by artists and creativity his whole life, and remains an interested observer of all things art, using inspiration from all around him to draw on in his current path of digital and marketing.

Canva is a graphic-design and publishing tool for designers and non-designer alike. Canva seeks to inspire creations for use in a wide variety of industries. As advocates for creativity and innovation all over the world, Canva conducted this research to explore, understand, and highlight how important the creative industry is for people everywhere, and what more can be done to open up the doors of creativity for aspiring creatives globally.