We often think of Instagram as a distraction—and it’s also a destination. Like a city or a museum, it’s a place to explore: to wander, to encounter beauty, to find new voices and perspectives. While I’m still working on being more intentional with my social media use (honestly, not yet very successfully), I wanted to share a few accounts that consistently inspire, inform, and connect me to the art world in meaningful ways.
CULTURED:
Sarah Harrelson is the founder and editor-in-chief of CULTURED magazine. I’ve collaborated with Sarah and CULTURED many times over the years, including hosting their Instagram Live series during the pandemic—which, honestly, made me feel connected to the world in a way I very much needed. Sarah is creative and innovative, and I greatly admire what she’s built.
Daniel Arsham:
I first met Daniel Arsham when he visited my Zombies: Pay Attention! exhibition at the Aspen Art Museum. I knew his work and started following it more closely after we met. During the pandemic, I invited him as a guest on my podcast, and later, as CEO and Director of the Orange County Museum of Art, he was one of the first artists I invited to present a solo exhibition. I love how Daniel collaborates across platforms—his content is both personal and incredibly expansive.
KAWS:
Brian Donnelly, also known as KAWS, has a fantastic Instagram presence. In addition to showcasing his iconic sculptures in remarkable locations around the world, he’s also a generous collector and champion of other artists. There’s a lot to learn from following him—not just about his own practice, but about the ecosystem of contemporary art.
Avant Arte:
I’ve served on the board of Avant Arte for nearly five years and am deeply aligned with their mission to make art radically more accessible to the next generation. Their content is smart, informative, and beautifully produced. The aesthetic is high, and the storytelling is rich. I’ve also acquired works by Tom Sachs and Judy Chicago through Avant Arte—it’s a great entry point for anyone looking to start a collection.
Gagosian Gallery:
Gagosian was the original mega-gallery, and its Instagram reflects the depth and breadth of its program. With a roster that includes artists they’ve worked with for decades, alongside exciting new additions, the account offers an essential grounding in modern and contemporary art. If you’re looking to deepen your knowledge of artists shaping the present—and the future—it’s a must-follow.
