That is the problem, dialyn, if you put yourself into your work, you ARE an artist no matter what critics say. It has nothing to do with public opinion. Constructive criticism is good, saying something is "shite" is wrong. This seems to be a community in which "artists" and "hobbyists" stand as equals, let it be as it is. The world of art becomes quite disgusting when egos and arrogance takes over. Mark