Looking for Art in a Sea of Content: A Human-Centered Approach to Supporting Creativity on Social Media

Is `art' simply `content' in the age of social media? What does art's creation, appreciation, and experience lose when art becomes content? This exploratory research employs a mixed methods approach encompassing interviews, co-design, and stakeholder reviews to critically examine the perceptions of artists, curators, and content creators regarding the distinction between `art' and `content.' Our participants reveal four characteristics essential for art experiences that we use to co-design new digital `content' environments. The work concludes with content creators reviewing the characteristics and designs, offering their thoughts on the feasibility and potential future for `art' on social media. We offer open-source access to all design and research materials. By exploring the divide between `art' and `content,' this research contributes insights and guidelines for developing alternative algorithmic experiences to support creativity on social media.