Dropped the Discord and Patreon Explanation by SmittyG < Journal

3 years, 7 months ago

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Oh? I never considered your Discord as something you had to distribute to.
There are various channels for themed images we enjoy.
When you have posted something there as well, I always considered it as a nice bonus and not a 'have to'.

Rakuen

3 years, 7 months ago

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Yeah, there's a lot of cancelling going on these days. The scariest part is that a lot of intolerance is coming from people that were supposed to be the tolerant ones. And there's the strange inability to distinguish fiction from reality (at least for certain things). It's a crazy world.

I'm always happy to see your drawings. They are good and you have a really cool style. I don't want to see you stop but you should draw because you like it. I only recently released a new yiffy story after almost two years. But don't be like me in that regard.

KaoNocturatzu

3 years, 7 months ago

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I feel your pain. I've been noticing lately that more and more sites are shutting down and deleting art that depict particular things as if censorship is the only way to maintain face, but in doing so, they're just building a culture of paranoia and hostility towards artists who are into the stuff. Vigilante groups going around accusing people of being within those "Forbidden groups" and demanding to confirm every character is 18+ and everything matches the strict legal definitions (even if those same people are perfectly fine with violent content or hateful content that "technically" isn't illegal).

Still yeah it's good not to overwork yourself. As a fellow artist who works in tech, the money isn't worth the stress of having to constantly deliver. I'd rather focus my energy on just maintaining the job, get my 40 hours in and then focus on taking my time with personal projects. I keep my discord to friends only for a similar reason, focusing on growth, new skills and new ideas, rather than just drawing stuff for the sake of impressing people. Also helping people break out of their shells, as a lot of people feel ostracized by the increasing censorship miasma that wants to ban all sexual acts to make a few people who cut off their penises proud that no one else can jack off.

Still glad to see you have another site to upload your stuff. That's what I did too. If you're the webmaster, you can do whatever you want and dont' have to worry about short tempered admins deciding your art goes against their arbitrary morals. Hope there are ways to keep in touch though, I really am heavily inspired by your work.

Koirapoika

3 years, 7 months ago

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For the longest time the art was just a bonus for me. I enjoyed the conversations. But best of luck to you. I hope to see you somewhere again in the future.

Kettukarkki

3 years, 7 months ago

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@ Koirapoika

^ What I said lol.

Diftraku

3 years, 7 months ago

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@ Koirapoika

Came for the Patreon, stayed for the bantz, the art was a bonus on top of the bantz in the end.

Pocketpie

3 years, 7 months ago

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Good to see you're still around and looking forward to anything you create in the future.

SparkleTick

3 years, 6 months ago

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@ Pocketpie

Seconded :3

Kagar

3 years, 7 months ago

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I was mostly there for you, loved the conversations we had, even if not much :p, take care out there :p.

cheetahjab

3 years, 7 months ago

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We’re in the middle of a redesign at jabarchives.com it’s been an adult art site since 1995. 26 plus years up I’ve never censored or booted an artist over art :) I’d love for you to be part of it. The new design is a bit out still so it looks dated but we’ve recently implemented a full drag n drop gallery system. I’d love to get a chance to chat and see how I can help you out.

Skyesabelle

3 years, 7 months ago

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You take care Smitty

YellowSnowlep

3 years, 7 months ago

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I think it more has to do with sites like Pay-treon and OnlyPorns trying to become platforms for "legitimate" things rather than furry porn and e-girl camshows.

Kitsunal

3 years, 7 months ago

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I understand your very well your decision, I know how hard is to draw when you work 40 hours a week. I'm an overnight worker, and drawing sometimes takes forever, and I use my last energy to do stuff at home, like cooking, cleaning, and more.

I was supporting you because I enjoy what you do, I actually never talk in discord, I couldn't find a good time for that, I enjoy looking at your post like 1 time each month maybe, I did saw some sketchers sometimes, but I couldn't enjoy all those artwork that now belong only to you, and maybe is for the best, I can't miss what I didn't saw, and in a way that is better for you.
I was there mostly because I wanted to support you. Patreon is a good way to support artists, and I think, at the same time, for some people, it's a chain that makes you force to finish content to make people stay. But $120 p/m is workless, I think the best way you could do, offers a tip system. Patreon doesn't work for everyone, it's sad that didn't work as well for you, but you could still have one just to offer tips from the ones who want to help you.

Enjoy what you do, that was in the beginning when I just found you, you were enjoying what you draw, and enjoy seeing other love what you can create, I hope you can feel much better soon, take your time, and back to your feet, we will here really happy to see your new creation.
Make your art your passion again, it's good to improve, it's great to get faster, but don't chain yourself in something you enjoy and make it something you have to do.

Sometimes bad ones, bring good ones, and maybe this time like you said, it's something good the stuff that just happens.

I respect your decision, and I will always wish you the best, find the path you want to follow, and be happy with what you do.

Oasis

3 years, 7 months ago

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I understand completely, Smitty, and I'm sorry it got that way for you. I subbed to you to support you to the end on any front (not just art) and on the Discord, getting to know you was a treat. It is your life and you deserve to do it in whatever way you see fit. Good luck out there, sweetheart. Take care of yourself.

MildlyBushy

3 years, 7 months ago

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First: What has Discord even to do with Patreon?
Second: It's always kinda funny to me when people are surprised when they get taken down on Patreon for porn or whatever thing they abuse that system for. But what do I know, I'm one of those pathetic people who prefer actual jobs.

SilkySmoothChihuahua27

3 years, 7 months ago

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Seemingly, Adult Spaces are being censored more than ever before, especially by those who were tolerant, or supposed to be, and big businesses/corporations. Sooner or later, there's going to be trouble in that regard because it's going to leak out into the world, and porn/adult content is unstoppable, as is proven time and time again. Then we'll probably have riots of people who either are just overly horny, or just upset about the censoring going on. You cannot stop Adults from being... adults, especially when they're not doing anything out of the ordinary. (Believe it or not, porn and being generally sexual is quite normal.)

As for the accusations of specific sexual acts? I feel like I shouldn't delve into it, I'm not the right person to do that.

Strebiskunk

3 years, 7 months ago

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I certainly understand how feeling pressured to draw for the sake of a deadline can kill motivation. And it always makes me sad to see artists getting frustrated with their own work. If being free from that, and focusing on personal improvement, will help you love this creative medium again, then I'm glad.

Also, I will note from my own experience that motivation often comes in waves. Setbacks will happen from time to time. It's normal, and it's almost never permanent. It's just part of how growth happens. Even something that seems like a bad fit right now, might be worth returning to later when you feel ready. In any case, I hope this helps, I wish you the best, and I look forward to seeing where your creative journey takes you.

bluemage77

3 years, 7 months ago

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I 100% agree with dropping the Discord. I feel like creating live communities where people are allowed to marinate for hours a day creates a breeding ground for weird drama. I tried to post in your Discord when it first started, but people began vying for control and fights broke out over really inane things, so I just muted everything but your gallery.

It was an unnecessary stress on everyone, I'm glad you're free of it. Now go lay down, eat a Hot Pocket, and relax. Make stuff you want when you want. I look forward to whatever you wanna do, my man. You're a nice guy.

torchlight

3 years, 7 months ago

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Thanks for letting us know, I don't think Patreon told us you were banned, and I only noticed a couple days ago when I got my receipt for the month.
From what I've heard at least some of Patreons staff check anywhere they can find, looking for a reason to ban artists.

SkaterYena

3 years, 7 months ago

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Edited 3 years, 7 months ago by Owner

Well, it is up to you what you wanna do with your discord smitty, you have every right to drop it if you want.

I just wanna say though, a lot of people there were for your art, yes, but there were also a lot of people who were there for just you, and simply to chat and make friends with you. I would say the ones who chatted consistently and were active all the time were probably the ones who just wanted to be there for you and maybe try and make friends with you. The art was just a bonus :)

We sure had a lot of fun times there though, and damn did I meet a lot of new friends from your chat. I'm being serious too, because of your chat I met a lot of awesome new furs which led me to other discord servers too, and compared to two years ago I am way more sociable in the fandom now. So for all that I do wanna say thanks man, for making it possible :)

I know that totally isn't something you planned at all, but it is indeed something that happened to a lot of people in your chat, so again, thanks! lol

And lastly, I just wanna wish you luck in whatever you do next, and if you ever do wanna hop on the discord now and then to say hi, I know we would gladly enjoy chatting with you again when you feel like it, and even if it's only a little bit :)

NekoStar

3 years, 7 months ago

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Good on ya. Drawing this stuff should never feel forced. There's drawing for commissions/job, and there's drawing for yourself. Sometimes you gotta focus on drawing for yourself.

kinglazereth

3 years, 7 months ago

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You do what's best for you. Then, hopefully, we can chat again with you without thinking about any expectations you "have" to deliver. It was fun just talking. Have fun with whatever you are going to do now.

Psy101

3 years, 7 months ago

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I feel what you mean. Best of luck to ya, buddy.

TysonTheTyphlosion

3 years, 7 months ago

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I'm very sorry to hear how all of this made you feel. This passion project ended up turning into a chore and that's just not how it should be. I apologize if I ever made you feel like I'm "just here for the art". I enjoy your art as well as you as an artist. It's one of the reasons why I became a patron of yours. ^w^

Please take this time to take a break and relax from drawing, even if it's for a long while. We're all here for you at end of the day and the support you have is massive. So take all the time you need. We'll be here for you for whatever you want to do. Take care, Smitty. <3

xerawrapspony

3 years, 7 months ago

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I know I didn't interact much but I still appreciate what you've been doing for the community, I wish you the best of luck and hope you find a good balance in your life where you can be happy~

hughwerefox

3 years, 7 months ago

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Uhn-uh. Oh Hell No.

You know damn good and well some of us could care less about the art, and weren't there for it. But, so many were, so yeah.

Have fun and enjoy the piece. Also frees up more time for me to get the farm going. So Thanks for that. And for the investment tips.

Romain73190

3 years, 7 months ago

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OH COME ON! The discord closed and it's just when I learned there's one?

pniaspeossyaslbo

3 years, 7 months ago

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Sorry to hear about the way you felt. I know it's not much of consolation, but I want to tell you, I was super thankful for everything you did. And still am.

As one who values archives, it hurt to see the smitty gallery gone. I would hope you kept your own copies of all the art and will someday find another place to display it. But that's entirely secondary to what makes you happy. That is what really matters. Much love and well wishes. And thanks again, for everything you have done. <3

thejediluke

3 years, 6 months ago

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I just liked supporting you buddy, I didn't ever want you to feel trapped or overworked. You do you, self care first ♡

NaruhodoNoodle

3 years, 6 months ago

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Nice to hear. I see so many artists get sunk into a pay content scheme and before they know it, their livelihood as an artist is tied to donations and other people's ideas. Sorry that you're losing income, but I welcome the advancement of your portfolio for yourself and by your own schedule.

Gau

3 years, 6 months ago

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Very sad to hear but as you say this may be good for you in the long term.

Judging from what you have said, you were not living a healthy routine. Art is something that really needs passion and if that passion just becomes a chore, it's no different than any other dead end job. Taking that time to relax and keeping art as a side hobby is probably better for you.

Still I always assume popular artists are full time, the idea you worked effectively two full time jobs.. How?

PiedibluKawatani

3 years, 6 months ago

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I've been supporting you for a long time, but we never talked on Discord.
But this report is very sad for me.

I was supporting you not as a reward but as a 'thank you for wonderful drawings', and I don't want drawing to become a source of stress for you.
It was a cheap tip to begin with.

First, get some rest and relax fully... Then, enjoy your drawing as much as you want to.

I wish there was some kind of tip jar, not a subscription, that we could give you at any time...

Thanks for showing us so much great work!
I am deeply grateful.

desp

3 years, 6 months ago

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Thank you and take care of yourself. I am glad that you allowed me to support you and your wonderful art.

giraffe007

3 years, 5 months ago

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Edited 3 years, 5 months ago by Owner

I'm sad you're stopping, but if it makes you happier like this, keep it up and thank you for your quality work.
I knew you thanks to your Zoe Trent and Penny Ling fanart (Littlest Pet Shop 2012)

RottweilerDaddy

3 years, 4 months ago

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Edited 3 years, 4 months ago by Owner

Probably some master fur race, white knight, anti zoo cry babies complaining. Those people are narcissists and ugly like rubble.

Frederik

3 years, 3 months ago

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Hope things work out. You've got some of the best feral art out there, and you definitely deserve to be compensated for your work.

Nightmask

3 years, 3 months ago

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Do what's best for you. Your art's great and if the Patreon and Discord were making it feel like you have to force yourself and aren't improving because of it it's best to walk away, Patreon just did you a favor as you were caught up feeling obligated to everyone else and couldn't make the final commitment to drop it for your own good (a problem all of us fall into at some point). Best of luck and will be looking forward to anything you bring out, it's just the best!

BunnyFlower

3 years, 3 months ago

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I've been off Inkbunny for a long time to write, just getting back and going through the massive backlog of art, and journal notices.

So~ I missed the entire Pateron and Discord saga.

Personally I've used Discord for only one thing ever, and that was to comment on something on GamesFromScratch [youtube channel for game dev news mostly.]

I'd love to find a good social place on the internet again, but Discord never seemed like one to me. Since it seems like either your joining a themed server as a fan, or running a sever as a provider and neither of those things sound like good quality socialization. Fan themed conversations are fun for a little while, but not great feeling for the long run, and work themed, geared, or even just vaguely connected to your working public image conversions are good for when you want to work, but not for much of anything else.

Anyway, I'd say if you ever do find a good lo-fi place to hang out on the internet let me know, but at the same time probably not worth jinxing a good hangout place by announcing it anywhere. XD

dinksmallwood

3 years, 3 months ago

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Hope you find happiness in whatever you decide to do, Smitty G...although, I know nothing about you beyond your art...and that's just being honest. People should enjoy whatever they are into, not begrudge it... be that art, music, writing, coding, or anything else. Thank you for sharing your work on here, and enjoy your life in the way that works best for you.

Uzrnm

3 years, 2 months ago

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Bruuuhhh…. I didn’t even know you had a Patreon. Missed out on a lot of great content :(

Is it too late to buy into the Dogfolio? Barely found out about this place, but it appears kinda abandoned. At least now I know where to follow one of my all time favorite artist!

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