For the past couple of years, I have been spending a lot of time on Instagram. First I was so awed by the many beautiful artworks posted and was immediately hooked. I then started following artists and followed back those that appear to show interest in my posts. I gained over 2,000 followers (whatever that really means) and managed to follow over 1,000 accounts. A few days ago, I decided to close my account the main two reasons being that it had become too distracting and my eyesight was getting worse from too much time on my iPhone. There were some other dilemmas:

• My PC version of Instagram no longer allowed me to upload posts (yeah, yeah, I know there are workarounds but that was not my point).

• For someone who has a hard time keeping up friendships because I like to spend so much time on activities that require lone time, being cordial to over 1,000 people was impossible (yeah, yeah, I know no one said you have to be cordial on Instagram).

• I noticed I was starting to paint solely to post on Instagram. The number of likes started to replace my own judgment and became an easy source of self-approval. In other words, I got big headed.

• Too many background noises. I started receiving offers to instantly increase the number of followers. I also received an offer to post a photo of me wearing their brand of active wear (if you really looked at my account, anyone would guess I am not their target audience!). I also received offers to exhibit my painting in various places around the world (including Dubai!) – I can be big headed but not stupid.

Don’t get me wrong, I had a good time; much more than I expected. I also had the opportunity to sell a few paintings which I truly, truly appreciate. I do miss the many wonderful artists/Instagram accounts I was following and hope to check up on their activities through other means. However, I now have more time to concentrate on improving my painting skills and hope to work on other things that require a whole lot of hard work.

Lastly, thank you to all that supported me on Instagram! I may see you again on some other platform that I can better handle. 😊