Influencers vs. Influences

The Fine Line Between Fame, Famous & Infamous

The work above has been in the works, in fits and starts, for over a week.

Around 2am this morning, I woke up and finished it. And then went back to bed.

Obviously, it’s an homage to Vincent van Gogh: the man, the myth, and the artist. This digital mixed-media collage is as close to the picture I have in my mind’s eye as I know how to create: Intense and sensitive, direct and detached, colorful and subdued, all-seeing and all-seeking.

“I put my heart and my soul into my work,
and have lost my mind in the process.”
Vincent van Gogh

As I continue to learn more about Vincent’s life, I appreciate his work even more.
He is like an onion…many layers, most of which can make me cry.

Well over 100 years after his death, Vincent van Gogh continues to inspire artists of all ages. (And not just because he was a wee bit crazy. Cuz…we all are. Right?)

The same cannot be said of many of the art and creative“influencers” across social media. Regardless of what their follower counts say, I’ve personally only heard of a handful. And know very little about the works of those I have heard of.

Not that I’m an expert, but “influencer” artists today likely won’t become influential artists tomorrow.

The Shifting Landscape of Influence

In today's digital era, social media platforms are flooded with “influencers,” individuals who amass large followings through curated content and personal branding.

While many are talented artists and educators, true creative influence extends beyond mere popularity. Influential creatives shape cultures, redefine norms, and leave an indelible mark on their respective fields.

“Influencers” may garner attention for their 15 minutes of fame, but influentials have the power to transcend time, challenging the status quo and sparking conversations that resonate across generations.

Influential Queer Creative Pioneers

Below are a few of the many, many LGBTQ+ Historial Heroes and Modern-Day Masters from across the creative spectrum that are influential and inspiring to me:

• Artists: Andy Warhol, Edmonia Lewis, Ellsworth Kelly, Felix Gonzalez-Torres, Gilbert Baker, Grant Wood, Hugh Steers

• Designers: Albrecht Becker, Chip Kidd, Debbie Millman, Tom Ford

• Filmmakers: Alan Ball, Kenneth Anger, Derek Jarman, Rose Troche

• Musicians: Billy Strayhorn, Boy George, Divine, Freddie Mercury, George Michael, Holly Johnson, James Dean, Liberace, Tracy Chapman

• Photographers: Diane Arbus, Francesca Woodman, Kevyn Aucoin, George Platt Lynes, Robert Mapplethorpe

• Writers: Alice Walker, Chuck Palahniuk, Del Shores, Gertrude Stein, Harvey Fierstein, Truman Capote, Vito Russo, William S. Burroughs

• 400+ More @ CollidePress.WordPress.com

“I always thought I'd like my own tombstone to be blank. No epitaph, and no name. Well, actually, I'd like it to say 'figment.'“
Andy Warhol

I’m a big cheerleader and fan of fellow creatives following their own muses and making their own kind of art. But anyone adopts or aspires to the “influencer" label is likely not someone I’m going to follow or pay much attention to. Tastes vary, but the flavors-of-the-month are just not my cup of tea. No tea, no shade.

For me, the distinction between influencers and influences is a critical one. For me, Queer Creative Pioneers, past and present, demonstrate that genuine influence is not just about being seen but about creating a lasting impact.

There’s a fine line between fame, being famous, and becoming infamous. The most enduring influences are those that stand the test of time, transcend trends and leave an everlasting mark on the creative tapestry of our world.

Thanks for reading,
Clint

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