Same Rules. Different Channels.

“Influencers” are perceived to be a phenomenon of the past decade. However, it's easy to forget that the concept of leveraging one's persona and reputation for success is not new. Long before the era of Instagram and TikTok, portrait artist Angelica Kauffman masterfully cultivated her image and leveraged her connections to become one of the most celebrated portrait painters of her time.?

I was reminded of this during a recent viewing and guided tour of Angelica Kauffman’s exhibition at the Royal Academy of Arts . Born in Switzerland in 1741, Kauffman was an original influencer. She used her unique brand, reputation and advocacy for gender equality to carve out a remarkable career in a male-dominated art world.

Reputation: The Currency of Success

Kauffman understood that her reputation was one of her most valuable assets, and she carefully curated it to gain recognition and commissions. She leveraged her connections with influential patrons and fellow artists, cultivating a network that appreciated her talent and charisma. In an age where a woman's reputation could make or break her career, Kauffman's unwavering commitment to maintaining a flawless reputation was a calculated strategy that paid off.

Visual Brand: The Power of the White Dress

In an era when personal branding was unheard of, Angelica Kauffman understood the value of cultivating a distinct visual identity. Her signature white dress, inspired by classical Greek attire, became her trademark, setting her apart from her contemporaries and establishing a recognisable brand for herself. In the 21st century, individuals like Anna Wintour, Steve Jobs, and Karle Lagerfeld are?renowned for their strong and distinctive visual identities. This underscores the foresight and savvviness behind Kauffman's sartorial choices.

Gender Equality: Breaking Barriers

Kauffman was a pioneer for gender equality in the arts. In 1768, she became one of only two women to become Founding Members of the Royal Academy of Arts in London.

Her unwavering determination to break through the glass ceiling of her time inspired countless others to follow in her footsteps.

In many ways, Angelica Kauffman was ahead of her time. If she lived today, she would no doubt have millions of followers on social media. She embodied the qualities that define modern-day influencers: a carefully curated brand, a deep understanding of the importance of reputation, and a commitment to using her influence for positive change.?

?Her legacy reminds us that visibility transcends eras and mediums and that those who wield it responsibly can leave an indelible mark on history.