Beyond the algorithm: Developing artistic taste

In an era where algorithms curate our visual experiences, from Instagram feeds to Pinterest boards, the ability to develop genuine artistic taste has become both more crucial and more challenging. The constant stream of algorithmically-optimized content creates echo chambers that reinforce existing preferences while limiting exposure to unfamiliar aesthetics.

© Alessandro Florio "Cirnechi in festa"

Breaking free from this vicious cycle requires intentional effort and systematic approach to cultivating one's own aesthetic sensibilities as an individual as well as in business.

Why personal taste is on the rise

Algorithms are designed to show us more of what we've already engaged with, creating a feedback loop that narrows rather than expands our aesthetic horizons. This creates several problems: our taste becomes predictable and homogenized, we lose the ability to appreciate nuanced or challenging work, and we become dependent on external validation rather than internal conviction.

Developing authentic artistic taste isn't about rejecting popular or trending aesthetics entirely, but about building the capacity to evaluate art independently. It means understanding why something appeals to you beyond its viral potential, sounding names, or algorithmic optimization.

Understanding the fundamentals

Composition is the architecture of visual impact, not "looks good". Grounded in classical principles like the rule of thirds, golden ratio, and leading lines, it's key to understand when and why artists break these rules effectively. Referring to the master painters is always a safe bet: how they use negative space, how they guide one's eye through the frame, and how they create tension or harmony through placement of elements. Spending time with works that initially feel "wrong" or uncomfortable is the best exercise. Often, these pieces are experimenting with unconventional compositional approaches that expand beyond standard formulas.

Looking beyond the pretty colour palette is crucial. Colour appreciation requires understanding both technical aspects and emotional resonance. A basic knowledge of colour theory is fundamental, but also observing how different cultures and time periods approach colour differently. A colour is rarely found alone, hence, looking at colour relationships rather than at individual hues is a good idea. They interact, create vibrancy, or may stay subtle. Lighting conditions may change colour perception as well, and some artists even take advantage of manipulation effects. Some colour combinations seem jarring, however, some of the most sophisticated colour work happens in subtle gradations or unexpected juxtapositions that reward careful observation.

Some themes come across light-hearted, whereas some content dives deep. Developing taste in thematic content means learning to distinguish between surface-level aesthetics and deeper conceptual work. This requires engaging with art history, cultural context, and the evolution of ideas through visual culture. Studying how different artists approach similar themes is a strong anchor, as well as how they address technology, identity, or environmental concerns – exploring the world over generations. Sensitivity to both originality and depth of exploration is more important than ever.

Navigating around common pitfalls

First of all, no more "I (don't)like it.". Period. We all should know better and start reasoning. Quality should never be confused with expense, or significance with popularity. Some of the most important artistic innovations were initially rejected or undervalued. Similarly, assuming that challenging or difficult work is automatically superior to more accessible pieces is not true per se.

The most sophisticated aesthetic judgment comes from understanding relationships between different forms of visual expression. While context matters enormously, the work itself must ultimately succeed on its own terms – theoretical knowledge shouldn't override visual experience. In short, taste develops best in broad categories. Unleash it!

Developing authentic artistic taste is an ongoing process that requires active engagement, intellectual curiosity, and willingness to be challenged. It means building the confidence to trust one's own judgment while remaining open to new perspectives and experiences. Whether applied to personal enrichment or business success, sophisticated taste becomes a valuable asset that improves with cultivation.

Taste over algorithms

Trusting eyes over algorithms. Seeking challenges. Building taste that lasts. We are not elitist critics either, but let's explore more together: let's disturb the Instagram algorithm with some eye-opening exercises.

Yours truly,

Margot

MD'A sidenote: Alessandro Florio is a Sicilian painter, known for his expressive style. His creative process is driven by instinct and emotional spontaneity, avoiding preparatory sketches to preserve the purity of the moment. He believes that true artistry lies in gesture and attraction, embracing imperfection as part of the artistic truth. He also works as a tattoo artist.