'She claimed her exposure would be more valuable than my art': Artist stands up to influencer and exposes messages after she demanded free painting and $200 to post it on her account

Influencer culture has truly gotten out of hand. Odds are, you've scrolled through social media and stumbled upon a PR haul from an influencer. These "hauls" are when companies send free products to influencers in exchange for exposure on their accounts, and some of these unboxing videos are downright excessive. We're talking dozens of boxes filled with products they'll likely never use. Welcome to overconsumption culture. Instead of being grateful for these opportunities, some influencers take their entitlement to the next level.

Case in point: this influencer reached out to a family friend, an artist, and demanded a free painting. When the artist explained she couldn't afford to give her work away, the influencer doubled down, insisting on a free painting and $200 to post it because "that's what brands do." If you're already fuming, you'll appreciate how the artist handled the situation—even if her own mom didn't back her up…