There is so much information available on how to use Instagram and why it’s a great platform for artists.

#1
How do you want to be showing up? Use your Instagram to reflect that. Balance art posts with more general personal posts about 7 to 1 

#2
Show your face from time to time. Photos and videos of the artist help boost engagement- try it you’ll see.

#3
Use good clear images of your art- do you only ever show images of your work in situ? Is every single post a carousel? Do you overuse collage images? Mix it up – full images, cropped details, behind the scenes, carousels. Limit use of filters

#4
Post consistently but not multiple posts every single day. Try one post about 4 days a week and see how that goes for you – 3 is OK too. You can ramp up the number of days in the lead up to events if you want and less when you need a recharge. If you struggle with posting this often see tips 8 and 9, and just keep it consistent (ie don’t vanish for a few months) 

#5
Use stories to share fun impromptu news and experiences. Feature your best stories in highlights.

#6
Instagram engagement loves videos include some videos and reels in your mix, but don’t spend so much time creating them they take over your life

#7
Include clear calls to action on some of your posts – sign up, come to exhibition, click here to buy, dm for more information etc). How many and which ones depends on how and why you are using Instagram 

#8
Repurpose previous posts

#9 
Use a scheduling app to batch and schedule posts. I use Planoly. There are other apps if you prefer including Facebook Creator, Later, Buffer, Tailwind to name just a few.

#10 
Don’t just post and run, but don’t mindlessly scroll for long periods. Schedule time to seek out accounts to follow. Comment, share, like. Two words to remember ‘social’ and ‘engagement’ (stick to your time though)

#11
Instagram is a tool for you to use, not the driver so don’t allow thoughts of ‘the algorithm’ to boss you around.

#12
Furthermore 11 …if you are using Instagram in a way that interrupts your creative flow state, make the decision to use it differently (see tips 4, 8, 9, 10, 11)

There are, of course, many more tips, but let’s start here and see how that works for you.