What Is The Deal With Graphics Threads? Few DUers Ever Reply!

[DistressedAmerican]

Does my stuff just suck or is there another reason that people largely ignore (in terms of not replying) these threads? :shrug:

I see on my webstats that people are pulling these threads up by the hundreds. However, if I get 15 relies I AM THRILLED with the response. I thrive off of feedback.

Remember folks, us graphics folks are working our asses off:banghead:.

It takes a lot of effort to make these images. I frequently put more work into them than my text threads which are notably more popular.

I find it a bit baffleing myself. I love graphics and photo threads!

I'm sure I'm not only speaking for myself when I say, PLEASE post some replies when you see these threads! Give us a little kick! We'd appreciate it!

Love Ya:loveya: ,
DA

[MadAsHellNewYorker]

1. I like your stuff a lot DA

just cause we don't always respond doesn't mean its not good work. Thanks for all your hard work in effort in making good stuff! :toast:

[DistressedAmerican]

2. Thanks! Remember The Occasional Kick!

It is greatly appreciated!

[MazeRat7]

3. I will make a point in the future to provide critical review *grin

Now that you are basically "begging" for us to notice. *LOL.
You may wish you never ask... its happened to me I know.

Besides, your right, generating graphic is a lot more work than text. But also remember, do it because you LOVE it not because you want someone else to love. it.

MZr7


edit: damn typos... oh an I forget to mention... you do good work FWIW.

[DistressedAmerican]

5. A Little From Column "A" And A Little From Column "B"

Really I make them and post them to my site and here and send them out to other sites and print them up and post them and...

if because I want people to see and internalize the messages. Making them is great fun, I'll admit. However, if noone ever saw them after that, I don't think I'd be working as hard!

Thanks!

[IChing]

4. i like your stuff and will kick next time

you are not ignored......:yourock:

[zipplewrath]

6. I got graphics shut off

Takes too long to load the stuff.

[sce56]

7. Ok here you go

Yep it takes a lot of time for me to find them cut n paste the links
The down side is bandwidth not everyone has broadband some still use dialup which makes for slow reading of these posts!








http://web.archive.org/web/20030402135135/

[DistressedAmerican]

11. More Bandwsidth For The Masses!

Very nice images!!!

Keep pasting those links!

[MuseRider]

8. Sorry

I like your stuff. I often look and chuckle or think how right on they are but I am guilty of not replying.

I will do better or just give them a kick now and then.

[DistressedAmerican]

12. Tnx! You and your sig line rock!

[Coexist]

65. that's me, too. Sorry

I will try to remember to give you more feedback.
Thanks for everything you do, your stuff really is great.

[annabanana]

9. I really DO love your stuff

AND since a picture is worth a thousand words.. You've usually expressed what I'm thinking better than anything I can think of to say!

In other words, they often leave me speechless because they are SO on the money! I have nothing add as they require no embellishment!

That said, I will confess that I often "snatch" them and use them as wallpaper, or print them up and stick them under windsheld wipers and stick them on supermarket bulletin boards, etc etc....

(I will try to remember to ALSO kick them!)

[DistressedAmerican]

15. Please Lift And Use Anything You'd Like!

Kicks do help spread the message and i'll feel lame kicking my own threads all the time. IBut, guess that is no more needy than this thread!:toast:

[WHAT]

10. That's why we need an automatic kick response....

say when a post has so many views without a response. I look at a lot of the graphic and photo threads because I just like to see what people do but I don't respond because...I'm looking.

KAT...kick ass thread designation?

:)

[DistressedAmerican]

16. Great idea! If Only We Could ATA's!

[Lerkfish]

13. howdy! I'm responding...

I support all graphic stuff...being as how I are a graphic artiste myself.

[DistressedAmerican]

17. AND You Rock Too!!!

[lonestarnot]

14. Pooop! I HATE YOUR THREADS!

Just kidding! }( :evilfrown: :toast: :wow:

[SmokingJacket]

18. I love your stuff.

Like others, I'll do better about kicking those threads.

Too often I just enjoy and move on...

[DistressedAmerican]

19. Thank you! I Assumed Most Just Didn't Think About It!

[Blue_In_AK]

20. DA, dear, you know how I feel about you and your graphics...

:loveya: :loveya: :loveya:

[ChavezSpeakstheTruth]

21. I don't want you to be upset but I find your graphics too over the top

You obviously have the drive and talent but your execution is a bit too much for me. I would love to see you progress. Again, no offense.

[mopaul]

24. critics! art was created, then the critic.

i appreciate political humor, in all it's forms, especially from one of our own here.

[ChavezSpeakstheTruth]

31. I do too. I was offering artistic constructive criticism.

[Swamp Rat]

36. Zarqawi Man speak truth to pudding!

Critic Man have gelatin brain because he eat pork.

[ChavezSpeakstheTruth]

40. Are you saying I have no brain because I dare to not like this garish

Photoshop stuff?

[Swamp Rat]

41. HAHA!!! I'm not talking to you or about you!!!

What makes you think that?

[ChavezSpeakstheTruth]

44. Um, a few posts up I spoke about criticism and you said "Critic Man have

gelatin brain because he eat pork". I wasn't supposed to think you were referring to me?

[Swamp Rat]

47. Go back to the Lounge please and read what I said there.

"I wasn't supposed to think you were referring to me?" - I have no idea who you are, and ditto on the pork eating. mopaul is a friend and I was joking with him. That is all.

[ChavezSpeakstheTruth]

49. I read it and replied. I misunderstood and I apologize.

Much peace to you.

[mopaul]

25. oh how they criticized the trane

and the bird

[DistressedAmerican]

26. Great Freaking Zarquawi!!!

I Give him Five thumbs up!

:thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup:

[ChavezSpeakstheTruth]

33. Which - Trane or Parker?

[ChavezSpeakstheTruth]

32. Yes they did.

[Zuni]

59. are you comparing yourself and DA to Coltrane or Parker?

That is just obscene. They were geniuses. You are two posters on a political message board who make poor photoshop...

[DistressedAmerican]

28. If You Think THIS Is Over The Top, You Fail My Viewer Litmus Test.

At which time you are required to put all of my further threads on ignore.

[Name removed]

30. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[Desertrose]

35. Its not *constructive criticism* my friend, its your opinion

You are telling DA you don't like his stuff. That is in no way "constructive criticism"...its just plain criticism.

As an artist I know the difference.

I personally find DA's stuff very good...from the heart and the graphics kick ass....but then that's only MY opinion...

[ChavezSpeakstheTruth]

38. Are you kidding me? I was extremely polite and have offered to start a

discussion about aesthetics but have been met with rejection. I have said I admire his drive and dedication but that I think he needs some training. This was never meant as a dis but some people are obviously above criticism.

[Desertrose]

42. I just think everyone has their own opinion about art

and simply calls it *constructive criticism*.

The thing with art is that it IS so subjective....but to tell someone they need some training comes out to me more like criticizing the artist. What you may perceive as lack of training may be the artist's chosen style.

You weren't rude & I don't mean to be, but as a working artist for over 35+ years, I've learned to back off criticizing someone's style or training- unless I am specifically asked for it. Sometimes an artist can have a fresher perspective when they are not "trained" to see or work like everyone else.

on edit:
I think all art & creativity should be encouraged...doesn't mean we have to like all of it or push our opinions & tastes on others either. I know not everyone appreciates my work, but by the sasme token, I don't expect them to give me a critique about it either.


:shrug: just my 2 cents worth

[ChavezSpeakstheTruth]

45. Ok - that's fine - I just feel that in our society it's fine to comment on

a musician, an actor or a writer. But visual art is some sort of special realm that the average person finds strangely sacrosanct. My years at art school showed me that you can never be the best artist you can be without being involved in serious critiques. Lord knows I've had my ass handed to me in crits and was always the better artist for it.

[Desertrose]

46. I've had a few of those ass handing "crits" myself LOL

Oftimes they helped but sometimes they totally missed the mark....but then that was so long ago.LOL

Maybe its tougher on a message board because it lacks the human connection and voice inflections, etc are not there. What can be meant as a help can sound like a slam when perhaps it was not intended that way at all.

I did note that the OP was questioning why graphic threads were not getting responses.....so if a question has been asked....:shrug:

[ChavezSpeakstheTruth]

50. I had been meaning to bring it up and the OP gave me the chance

I clearly meant no offence - and you're right - it's hard to have a meaningful visual art discussion on the boards. I am trying, however.

Peace

[Desertrose]

52. I can see that you are......

good luck.:)

Seems like a rowdy crowd here tonite...be curious what kind of art you do sometime....

well...pretty late here in the SW...time for sleep:boring:

Peace
DR

[ChavezSpeakstheTruth]

53. If you get a chance here's my stuff. Well what I've managed to scan

I'd like to check yours too.

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=105x3308789

[DistressedAmerican]

57. Thank You! You Put It Better And More Nicely Than I Would Have

but to tell someone they need some training comes out to me more like criticizing the artist. What you may perceive as lack of training may be the artist's chosen style.

The implication tht I do what I do because I need more practice IS offensive. I know exactly what I am doing. Call it contrsuctive criticism or whatever. It boils down to I do not like your style choices.

Your opinion. But, Am I really supposed to change my style just fit with your aestetic?

[Zuni]

58. Here is the thing

you are using DU as a flea market to hawk your photoshop creations. DU is not your art gallery. If you can't take a little critiscm, you were never meant to be an artist.

[ChavezSpeakstheTruth]

66. That's a more blunt way to say it

[Zuni]

71. It didn't seem like he was "getting it"

when you phrased it nicely, good sir.

[ChavezSpeakstheTruth]

73. I tried

:shrug:

[DistressedAmerican]

74. Please go back to the lounge. We'll stay there.

Your reply is posted. Sorry for the delay. It is long.

Zuni (and anyone else for that matter) has also been invited to discuss.

Lets just keep it to one thread...

[kittenpants]

79. DA, you asked for feedback and now you're upset because

it's not all positive. If you don't want criticism, don't ask why people ignore your graphic threads. I appreciate the work you put into them, but everyone just doesn't have the same taste. But lots of people DO like your work too.

[Zuni]

60. it's message is not over the top

what is is the fact that you are using DU to sell your products like it is some flea market or art show

[DistressedAmerican]

62. I Am Using DU To Help Spread A Meassage That Many Others Here Are Also

Spreading.

Sorry if you think that is using it like a flea market...

The last I'll say on this pointless attack on my motives.

[Zuni]

68. you just don't get it

:banghead:

[marions ghost]

81. LOL--there is no difference

between presenting an idea through words or through graphics. NO difference. And no artist who posts graphics here is asking for money to view it. So isn't DU a place where a great variety of opinions, ideas, websites, political actions, photos/visuals etc. are promoted? This IS a sophisticated flea market of ideas.

You might ask yourself why, Zuni, in a world of bombardment by commercial images, you object to sincere efforts by fellow DUers to merely express something political in visual language. Suggest you can just bypass graphics like you would bypass a verbal post you don't need to read--if you are so opposed to their very existence. I often drive by a WalMart that I consider a scar on the landscape, but I don't screech to a halt and throw eggs at it. However I would like to have the right to depict myself in photoshop or cartoon form throwing eggs at the WalMart, if I want to...and see if anyone else relates to that image.
You are confusing the virtual with the literal.

[DistressedAmerican]

82. Thank You Well Put. I Hear This Criticism A Lot.

It really pissed me off. I work my ass off at HUGE cost both in money and effort to bring a message of peace and tolerance to the world. One way I help promote and share that message it to share it with fellow DUers.

For anyone else that is wondering about my commercial exploitation of DU, I just found out that what I have sold on my cafepress store in the past several months just broke 50 cents over what I have put into having and promoting it!

Well, actually not, since I am sending 20% of that "profit" to the legal defense fund set up to pay the defense of 9 protesters who were arrested fighting Bush in Westfield NJ.

Does anyone feel the need to audit my books further?

Please take a little time and read up on the case. Maybe you will realize that I am not trying to EXPLOIT ANYONE!!

http://www.seedsofdoubt.com/distresseamerican/westfield.htm

[Kellanved]

61. What color do I need to turn in to pass?

It's green, isn't it? *crosses fingers*

[Zuni]

70. he didn't specify if he wanted an acid or a base

i think it is blue or red. or perhaps the paper is already blue or red. or maybe I am just crazy :crazy: I haven't done an actual litmus test since 9th grade chemistry :P

[Name removed]

72. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[Zuni]

75. dude, we were being silly

I think we broke you. I am sorry. :(

[DistressedAmerican]

76. Come Back To The Lounge!

[Zuni]

22. dupe

[DistressedAmerican]

23. Kicking More Out Of Curiosity Now Than Begging...

Feeling better! I did good work today!

[anarchy1999]

27. Keep in mind it is a "holiday". Lots of DU'ers are away from

their computers over the weekend, entertaining guests, traveling etc.

We like what you do, don't stop!

(we got lucky, we've visiting Mr. A's parents in NC, they are online and hooked up, and by the way Pinehurst, NC is BEAUTIFUL, especially for golfers and lovers of history)

[DistressedAmerican]

29. I Was Speaking More Of General Trends. But, You Are Right AND Lucky!

I hate when travel cuts me off. I have wifi dammit. I should be able to surf jogging 9or riding a bike) if I want!

[Hissyspit]

83. Well, it's raining here now. (Monday)

[merh]

34. I love your graphics

and Swamp Rats too. Is there a thread of yours that I have missed. Okay, time to check the other pages of GD!

:loveya: I do love your work! :hug:

:yourock:

[Swamp Rat]

39. Hey, Thanks!

:hug:

Look at my rendition FizzFuzz's doggie Pugsley: :D

http://www.picvault.info/images/118662_Jiminy-crickets!!!.jpg

[merh]

43. That is great!

:freak: psst, don't tell DA, but your works are my favorite. :hug:

Can you do a graphic of Scarlet O'Hara at the base of the stairs at the end of the movie after Rhett has left her and she raises up from her tears to say "Tara, tara" only put the weed's face on her image and the words "Terra, terra"? That's one I want! :hi:

:loveya:

[Swamp Rat]

48. Oh, so that's it!

Compliment me and then "ask" for some work to be done. I get it!!! :D

Actually, the subject could bet better handled by DA... unless you want an alien lizard Scarlet! :D Let's see if you can find me a decent photo with which to work. ;)

[merh]

51. Oh, it has to be the alien lizard scarlet!

:blush: Who else do you ask to put the visions in your head to canvas but a master? :hug:

Pretty please ....

[ngGale]

37. I love your graphics...

I'm just jealous because I can't do it. As hard as I try, I just can't make it and I have dial-up. :blush:

:yourock:


Kick! :kick:

[mittenlandgirl]

54. wee hour kick

Not sure why I'm awake, about 5 am here.
But here's a kick for you

I especially like In-Memorium, "have enough sacrificed"
indeed... very moving image.

here's one of mine

[DistressedAmerican]

55. Don't Know Why I Am Either! Great Graphic! PM Me If You

are looking for a digital home. I am alwayw looking for talented folks as contributers!.

Check out my submissions page:
http://www.seedsofdoubt.com/distresseamerican/submissions.htm

Let me know if it would interest you!!!

[mittenlandgirl]

56. thanks

interested as one can be at this hour, I will be sure to check the submissions page

um..after I get some sleep
:boring:

[unhappycamper]

63. DA: keep it coming. Like many others here,

I try to look at all your threads. Your Memorial Day contribution was very moving.

I will try to remember a kick or two to let you know your work is appreciated. Thanks!

Peace

[Paradise]

64. geez, you're right!

now that you've got me thinking about it, i just enjoy them, thoroughly, and then move on.

thoughtless of me :blush:, however, from now on, i'll be giving you guys/gals a thank you and a :kick:

[barackmyworld]

67. I have two (hopefully) constructive criticisms:

1) Sometimes the text is kind of hard to read in your images, or it is overshadowed by other things, and I think this is a result of number two--

2) Some of the graphics are over-photoshopped. I understand that a lot of them are supposed to be "over the top," but some just have too much fuzzy outline, random pshop effects, etc. I really like the heart and feeling in the "bring them home" one, but that filter on the soldier is too much and kind of tired. To represent the fallen soldier, a silouhette would have been simpler.

I hope you don't take these comments as offensive! Maybe we just have a different style with these things, but I appreciate political statements most when they are simple but shockingly powerful.

[merh]

69. kick

:kick:

[marions ghost]

77. I appreciate all the graphics at DU

some are excellent, some are really good, some are 'not-so-good but trying'...no matter, I'm not judging critically, just like I don't judge most of the verbal posts at DU too critically. I have a background in art and creative writing and have experience in judging both, but feel this is not the place to be too picky unless a poster specifically asks for such feedback. DistressedAmerican, you might get a better response by literally asking for feedback when you post a graphic, or use the image to spark a question...ie. help to bridge that gap between the visual and verbal for your viewers.

IMO DU is a populist think tank, ie. a place to be generally encouraging and receptive to ideas and creative efforts. Visual expression on political and social topics can be stimulating and refreshing in contrast to the relatively cumbersome language of words. However graphic artists need to keep in mind that anytime work is put out in public there may be some negative input. It's not worth losing sleep over. Hyper-reaction to criticism often separates fledglings from more seasoned artists.

Computer users are becoming more visually literate as more art originates or is translated into digital form. But still, many people don't know what to say about visual art, and need encouragement to trust their own eyes and responses in order to comment on it. Suggestion to viewers--be polite of course but no need to be shy--about offering comments to artists who are choosing to air their work in a public place. Art is communication as much as it is a personal expression.

[alfredo]

78. I'm on dialup. I will view the cartoon threads and the picture

threads where I am participating in contests. Still I only do it if I have time to wait 5 minutes for it to load.

[w8liftinglady]

80. not only do I love your graphics...

But I am getting a couple of your tank-tops off your Cafepress site("Your kid is next"...is just sinister)..keep those creative juices flowing..

[stevedeshazer]

84. It's that there are so many

I view way more than I can ever respond to, and post a few myself.

Don't expect adulation, just know that way more folks see it than respond to it.