Currently I also partner with Society6, another print on demand platform which stands out not just as a marketplace but as a community for creatives. Society6 allows artists to upload their designs and sell them on a wide array of products, from prints and apparel to home decor. It's a place where artists, free from the constraints of traditional retail, can flourish. Let’s dive into the nuances of Society6, examining its impact on health, wellbeing, and sustainability.
Society6's sustainability initiatives aren't explicitly detailed on their 'About Us' page. The focus is more on supporting a global community of independent artists and providing a platform for them to sell their original designs on various products. I'm currently in the process of following up some of their practices, but in the meantime they have stated that they take significant strides in ensuring the materials and processes used in product creation are health-friendly (at least as far as I've been told...still looking into this). By partnering with manufacturers who adhere to strict safety standards, the platform guarantees that products are not only beautiful but safe for both creators and consumers. This commitment extends to the use of non-toxic inks and sustainable materials wherever possible, mitigating exposure to harmful substances and contributing to a healthier planet.
Beyond its economic opportunities, Society6 does extensively foster a nurturing environment for artists. The platform's community-centric approach offers a supportive space for creators to share their work, receive feedback, and connect with like-minded individuals. This sense of belonging can significantly boost mental and emotional wellbeing, making Society6 more than just a marketplace—it's a source of inspiration and encouragement. This site aims to enhance an Artists' sense of their overall wellbeing.
For artists juggling the demands of their craft with the necessities of commerce, Society6 offers a seamless solution. The platform simplifies the business side of art, from listing products to handling transactions and shipping. This efficiency frees artists from the time-consuming aspects of selling their work, allowing them more time to devote more energy to their creative process.
Society6's mentions its conscientious approach to production and fulfillment. By adopting a print-on-demand model, the platform ensures that products are only made when there is a demand, drastically reducing waste. Additionally, Society6 states that it strives to source eco-friendly materials and to partner with manufacturers who share a commitment to environmental responsibility. These efforts underscore Society6's dedication to minimising its ecological footprint, aligning with the values of environmentally conscious artists and consumers alike.
Comparing Society6 and Redbubble in terms of sustainability, both platforms focus on reducing environmental impact through their print-on-demand models, minimising waste by producing items only when ordered. Redbubble emphasises its carbon neutrality efforts, partnering with renewable energy specialists to offset carbon emissions from shipping, and ensures products are printed close to the order's destination to reduce shipping distances. Society6 also promotes sustainability but specific initiatives or comparisons to Redbubble's efforts are less publicly detailed (I've sent an email request to receive more specific information on this - stay tuned!). Each platform adheres to ethical practices and seeks to minimise their environmental footprint, but Redbubble provides more detailed public information on its sustainability actions (one of the reasons I'm more active on Redbubble).
Society6 offers a compelling platform for artists to showcase and sell their work, supported by a community that values creativity and connection. While it champions health-friendly practices and emphasies sustainability, its greatest strength lies in its ability to simplify the business of art, allowing artists to focus on what they do best: create. As I consider the pros and cons of Society6, it's clear that its benefits—particularly in terms of wellbeing and time management—make it a good option for artists worldwide. Whether you're an artist looking to expand your reach or a consumer in search of unique, conscientious art, Society6 merits consideration as a platform where creativity and community converge for the greater good. And it is for this reason that I currently continue to use it as a platform for sales of my work.
I'm uploading my patterns through Society6 at present - you can check them out here if you are interested! More will be available shortly, including a few new ones!! I've also released the 'Dancing Protea's' in a pink version here!
I'll also keep you updated of the response I receive from Society6 with regards to it's sustainability practices. As mentioned, Redbubble is much more transparent about it's efforts, so I am curious to see what concrete approach is being taken towards net zero targets and fair pay for work.
