Is Original Art Obsolete in 2025?

4 Ways Original Artwork Connects People and Creates a Sense of Belonging

"At One" by GayLynn Ribeira, Spiritual Connection Art

Here's the thing.

In a world of social media, short videos, artificially crafted imagery, we are constantly being bombarded by imagery.

So why does anyone choose to stroll through an art gallery? There are far more images on the internet than on our walls, so why choose to come? Why choose to purchase?

Local collector and art enthusiast, Mrs. Mangum, says she chooses to interact with and be surrounded by original art for one simple reason:

"Art provides connection for me."

Intrigued, we asked her to tell us more. Mangum said, "There's something joyous to be able to share my art [collection] with others. It's mama pride when I see it, not in an ego way, but in a stewardship way. I have the ability to share it. It really is a window into people's personalities."

So how exactly does art provide connection?

How Art Connects People #1 - Art connects life experiences

"Your Life is Your Life" Stacy Weitz Minch

Have you ever seen a piece of art and thought, "this is me" or "I've been there before"?

We have too. The incredible thing about this is that most likely, the artist has also passed through a similar experience that led to the creation of the artwork.

Perhaps the person next to you has also had a similar experience. Suddenly, you are not alone. Someone out there has had a similar life experience to you. That realization connects souls and makes us realize that we are all not so different.

How Art Connects People #2 - Art connects by connecting us to our emotions

"Seeking Further Light" Jenna Conlin

Emotions can be hard to put into words. Sometimes, viewing a visual representation of an emotion can lead to a revelation:

"THAT is how I feel!"

Connecting to your emotions helps you to better understand yourself. This in turn allows you to better show up and express yourself to the people in your life.

Art connects you to the inner you. A stronger connection to self forges a stronger potential connection to others.

How Art Connects People #3 - Art connects by providing beauty

"Grounded" Natalie Jeanne

Maybe this one feels obvious to you, but there is a reason why lovers and friends journey to sites with brilliant sunsets, scenery, and architecture.

We are drawn to beauty, and we are motivated to share that beauty with those around us.

Art is such a shareable form of beauty. The best part is that art is so varied and accessible, there is beauty for literally anyone and everyone of all tastes and preferences. Share your favorite artworks with your friends and family. Share why they are beautiful to you.

How Art Connects People #4 - Art Connects by Fostering Discussions

"Upon Reflection" Lisa DeLong

Maybe you've noticed a theme. All of the ways that art connects inevitably lead to conversations and reflection.

Commenting on shared experiences, felt emotions, shared beauty, and intriguing insights leads to discussions and connections that cheap imagery and fast-paced content cannot.

This world is fast paced. Imagery comes and goes. A lot of it is false and contrived.

Perhaps this is what makes original artwork so valuable. It has a permanence and an ability to create connection and conversation.

It is the window to the soul of the artist and a door to the soul of others.

So, is original art obsolete in 2025? We don't think so.

And we wanted to start of this year personally thanking you for the connections you have made with your art, through your patronage, and through your promotions of originality and vulnerability that come with being a supporter of original, tangible, human-made artwork.

So thank you!

All artwork listed is available for purchase. Click the artwork. Browse our selection

Available Artwork

Share your thoughts below! How has art created connections for you?

Alondra Uhi, 1/24/25