As an artist showcasing your work online, it’s only natural to want to reach as many people as possible. With millions of pieces being uploaded daily to art platforms and social media, it can feel tempting to grab attention using dramatic wording, trendy tags, or exaggerated descriptions. But beware — if you’re not careful, you might be veering into the territory of clickbait.
What Is Clickbait?
Clickbait refers to content that is designed primarily to attract attention and encourage clicks, often through sensational or misleading titles, tags, or descriptions. It promises more than it delivers — sometimes subtly, sometimes quite blatantly.
In the art world, clickbait doesn’t necessarily mean writing “You won’t believe this masterpiece!” — though that does count. It can be as simple as misusing popular tags or writing misleading captions to attract views.
Common Examples of Clickbait in Art Tagging
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Tagging popular subjects that are not actually present in your work
e.g. using “cat” or “anime” when the image contains neither, just to gain traction. -
Using names of trending shows, games, or characters unrelated to your piece
e.g. tagging “Wednesday Addams” on a gothic portrait that has no real link. -
Overpromising in the title or description
e.g. “The most detailed dragon artwork you’ll ever see” — when the piece is stylised and not focused on detail. -
Stuffing tags with unrelated keywords
This often creates clutter and confuses both search engines and viewers. Worse, it undermines your credibility.
Why Clickbait Hurts Artists
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It Damages Trust
Viewers may click once, but if they feel misled, they’re unlikely to return or follow your work. -
It Confuses Search Algorithms
Many platforms rely on keywords and tags to suggest your art to the right audience. If your tags don’t match your content, it leads to mismatched exposure — and lower engagement over time. -
It Undermines Your Voice
Your unique style and subjects are what make your art meaningful. Using dishonest tags makes it harder for people to find you for the right reasons. -
It Frustrates the Community
Other artists who are accurately tagging their work may be pushed aside in search results, creating resentment in the community.
How to Promote Without Falling Into Clickbait
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Be Accurate and Honest
Use tags that genuinely reflect the content, mood, style, and medium of your piece. -
Think Like Your Ideal Viewer
What would someone genuinely interested in your piece type into the search bar? Use those words. -
Avoid Hype-Driven Language
Let your artwork speak for itself. If it’s dramatic, beautiful, or jaw-dropping, your audience will decide that for themselves. -
Keep Descriptions Clear and Helpful
Instead of “this will blow your mind”, try:
“A digital painting inspired by the windswept cliffs of Cornwall, exploring solitude and freedom.”
Final Thoughts
Clickbait might win you a few extra clicks in the short term, but it rarely leads to lasting connections with viewers or collectors. Your art deserves an audience that appreciates it for what it truly is. By being honest and intentional with your tags and descriptions, you’re not just marketing better — you’re respecting your work and your viewers.
