New Creative Era

This week marks the final episode of the first season of New Creative Era, as well as the release of a new book that collects all our conversations into printed form: On the Creative Life: Conversations Towards a New Creative Era.In this episode, Josh and Yancey discuss why even have conversations like ours? What is this moment in our collective creative journey?Though this is the last episode of this season, we’re interested in continuing these conversations. Want more New Creative Era? Let us know by picking up a copy of the book, or by reaching out: hello@metalabel.com.Peace and love, y’all. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit metalabel.substack.com

Dive into a lively discussion about envisioning a new creative landscape! The hosts share their hopes for an art market that thrives on accessibility and collaboration. They explore empowering artists to wield influence in societal decisions. The idea of curated creative bundles sparks excitement for mutual support among artists. Also on the table is a vision for a platform that enhances online creative communities. The conversation wraps with an optimistic look at the creator economy and its potential to address societal challenges.

What lessons do we keep with us from our creative journeys so far?This week Josh and Yancey turn back the clock and take turns sharing seven things they know now but wish they knew then. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit metalabel.substack.com

Explore the nonlinear paths of creative careers, from content repurposing to unexpected virality. Delve into the balance between solitude and social connection in artistic practices. Hear personal anecdotes on embracing transitions across different formats and genres. Discover how unconventional traits can become vital strengths in a rapidly evolving landscape. This discussion highlights the importance of authenticity and storytelling in finding success against shifting industry norms.

The hosts dive into the intriguing concept of artist-format fit, questioning how the right format can elevate creative work. They discuss the impact of algorithms on art presentation and the challenges of fragmented formats. The conversation shifts to the influence of cultural context on artistic expression, highlighting the transition from short radio singles to longer streaming albums. Additionally, they explore the evolving creator economy and present a tiered model for creative works, emphasizing the need for adaptability across various media.

Dive into the tangible side of creativity as the hosts explore the costs behind artistic projects, from book printing to community building. They provide insights on monetization strategies and share real-life examples from their initiatives. Learn how innovative membership models support fair compensation and community engagement. Discover how shifting from competition to collaboration in the creative economy fosters sustainable practices and emotional satisfaction for artists.

Creators often struggle to choose where to focus their efforts among various platforms like Patreon and Substack. The discussion emphasizes the importance of value creation and authenticity in enhancing audience engagement. Personal experiences shed light on the complexities of selecting the right tools and balancing structured content with genuine creativity. Navigating the limitations of personal portfolios and current platform dynamics proves essential for visibility. Ultimately, preserving individuality and fostering a supportive network can elevate the creative journey.

Dive into the transformative power of labels in the creative landscape. Explore how they evolved from outdated concepts to vital collaborative structures. Discover the role of early DIY labels in shaping cultural scenes and supporting burnout creators. The conversation highlights how modern tooling makes collective projects more viable. Learn about the balance between individuality and collaboration, plus how labels can enhance the creative ecosystem by facilitating revenue sharing and cultural memory.

This week, the discussion dives into the evolution of platforms in the digital age, contrasting traditional publishing with self-publishing. The hosts explore the complexities of cultural production, highlighting the balance needed between platforms and traditional institutions. They tackle the fairness of digital content economies, illuminating how creators often give more than they receive. Finally, they debate the shift from email to social media for audience engagement, emphasizing the importance of nurturing direct relationships for effective communication.

Dive into the world of collaboration as emotions, logistics, and economics intertwine in creative projects. Discover the tension between traditional publishing and indie platforms, revealing the power of authenticity post-crisis. Uncover unique content strategies that transform urban waste into artistic treasures. Hear personal stories that highlight the dynamics of collaboration, including profit-sharing and role definition. Celebrate the joy of working together while fostering integrity and communication in creative partnerships.