Beyond the Headlines: Alternatives to the News
Everyday, I talk with students and tutors who feel completely and utterly overwhelmed by the world right now. Lost in the noise of the 24 hour news cycle, I hear many a story of people's creative spark being dimmed.
When the world feels a little too much, one of the greatest powers of art is its ability to ground us. It can bring joy, even if only for a fleeting moment, and remind us of the beauty human beings are creating every single day.
Here are some wonderful spaces online that can help lift your spirits if you're feeling like this. Take a moment to turn down the news and see good in the world instead.
Inspiration From All Walks of Life
Koestler Arts: An organisation I know from my previous life working in the charity sector. Search through the gallery of works created by this incredible project which supports creativity for those within the criminal justice system.
TextileArtist.org: A joyful archive dedicated to celebrating the power of stitch. From traditional embroidery to mixed-media textile art, explore how quiet, tactile work brings people together and helps makers capture memories in thread.
Colossal: The name says it all really. This vast online resource is a cornucopia of art from around the world – each image takes you to an article about the artist, the piece, or the medium.
A Peek Behind the Curtain at the World’s Best Museums
The Met Stories: An extraordinary series of short videos which focus on the personal stories of visitors, artists, and conservators who have discovered solace, beauty, and inspiration from within the The Met museum's walls.
Rijksmuseum Features: Rich, beautifully filmed videos breaking down the secrets of artists such as Rembrandt and Vermeer, and crafts such as historic lace and woodcarvings.
The National Gallery (London): Explore in-depth articles on iconic masterpieces, traditional pigment recipes, and conservation breakthroughs for paintings that are not currently on display.
V&A Museum Textiles : Explore stories celebrating traditional textile techniques from around the world - from the intricate detail of English medieval embroidery to the ancient art of natural dyeing.
Insights from Our Favourite Art Suppliers
Jackson's Art Blog: A brilliant resource for all artists. Their blog is packed with deep-dive tests on paper weights, pigment permanence, brush-making traditions, and practical advice for caring for your tools.
Cass Art Blog & How-To Guides: Offers artist interviews alongside tutorials exploring traditional mediums, watercolours, printmaking setups, and paper selection.
Bromley’s Art Supplies Blog: A fantastic wealth of information for artists of all abilities and media.
Which uplifting art blogs and resources are keeping your creative spark alive right now? Share your favourites with us in the comments below!
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