Authenticity as the New Aesthetic

“Make Instagram casual again”

Gone are the days when a successful IG post simply required taking a good selfie, now one must craft a real online persona (while of course remaining palatable) to garner a following.

With the solitary pandemic lifestyle leaving many of us yearning for connection, social media has become the easiest outlet to escape isolation. However, the content which we’re sharing has changed as our daily routines have shifted from the outside world to the inside of our houses. As well, the growing sensation of unease and distrust for the systems within which we exist has led to a craving for honesty and authenticity. These feelings of disillusionment have been reflected in our interactions with social media. There has been a transition from heavy editing and “flex culture” towards more casual displays of one’s life online, a romanticization of the minute details.

While some may argue this is positive that social media has become more realistic or relatable, I find this concept slightly paradoxical as it runs contrary to the idealistic nature that is innate in posting online. We are more aware than ever of the dangers of social media, but yet remain tethered to it.

There is one method of media engagement that I feel captures this phenomenon perfectly.