In the digital age, finding an authentic platform for creative expression can be challenging, especially with the rise of AI-generated content. Enter Cara, an app that positions itself as an artist-centric alternative to Instagram. Rapidly gaining popularity, Cara offers a refuge for artists seeking a space free from generative AI art, emphasizing authenticity and genuine creativity.
An Artistic Platform with a Purpose
Cara’s premise is straightforward yet revolutionary: a platform similar to Instagram, but with a clear focus on artists. Users can sign up, upload their images, and engage with others’ artwork. What sets Cara apart, however, is its stringent policy against AI-generated images. Unlike Instagram, which requires AI content to be labelled but still promotes it, Cara filters out generative AI images entirely. This commitment ensures that users searching for authentic art can do so without sifting through AI-created pieces.
Cara’s website states, “We do not agree with generative AI tools in their current unethical form, and we won’t host AI-generated portfolios unless the rampant ethical and data privacy issues around datasets are resolved via regulation.” This stance is a clear message to the artistic community about Cara’s dedication to ethical standards and data privacy.
Rising Amid Concerns Over Instagram
Cara’s surge in popularity coincides with growing dissatisfaction with Instagram. In 2022, many of Instagram’s top users endorsed a petition accusing the platform of mimicking TikTok and overly prioritizing video content. Celebrity Kylie Jenner’s call to “make Instagram Instagram again” resonated widely, highlighting the platform’s shift away from its roots as a photo-sharing app.
This dissatisfaction has been compounded by Instagram’s evolving algorithm, which now favors reels and other non-photo content, sidelining the very images that once defined the app. For digital artists and tattoo artists, like Ant The Elder, this shift has been particularly problematic. They express frustration over reduced engagement, with posts often reaching only a fraction of their followers. Additionally, Instagram’s censorship policies can be restrictive, particularly for tattoo artists whose work features human bodies.
A Community-Driven Response
Cara has found a strong following among digital artists and tattooers, many of whom actively promote the app on their Instagram accounts. The platform’s focus on visual art, rather than social networking, appeals to those seeking meaningful engagement with their work. “I feel that each new app that gets a bit of traction is only a hope for how things used to be, and a possibility to get actual engagement again,” said Ant The Elder in an interview with The Independent.
Navigating Growing Pains
Cara’s rapid rise has not been without challenges. The influx of new users led to a “very high traffic load,” causing some to experience difficulties accessing the platform or signing up. Additionally, Cara faced cyber attacks, adding to the strain on its small team. Founder Jingna Zhang addressed these issues on X, thanking users for their patience and support as the team worked around the clock to resolve the problems.
Despite these hiccups, Cara’s user base continues to grow, cementing its place as a top contender in the app store charts. The app’s commitment to authentic art and ethical standards has struck a chord with artists worldwide, promising a bright future for this burgeoning platform.
Conclusion
As the digital landscape continues to evolve, Cara stands out as a beacon for artists seeking authenticity in their creative endeavours. By rejecting AI-generated content and prioritizing ethical practices, Cara offers a unique and much-needed alternative to platforms like Instagram. For artists disillusioned with the current state of social media, Cara represents a return to genuine engagement and appreciation for true artistry.