The analogies in this thread are slightly off IMO, and are closer to the following:

Brushes, Paint, Oil = Photoshop, Painter, other paint programs
Sculpture = Modelers
Art Direction = Poser, Bryce, Vue, other renderers

It all comes down to the simple concept that most render artists use models/textures from other artists to create their art. Yes, it takes talent to do so (and to do it right), but it's a different talent than drawing or painting from scratch on a canvas or screen. I do both 2D and 3D and I am very conscience of the difference. Especially in 3D where I have to explain to a 2D artist that I didn't create half of the things I used in the picture, where in 2D I don't have to make such a statement, because every pixel is my own.

To me, Epilogue wants to showcase the artists who's talent lies in their hands and the ability to create from scratch using their medium digital or traditional. I admire many artists there, just as I do here. It's just a different place and a different discipline than Rosity showcases. There will always be people wary of rendered art, because of the model sharing, but if you truly love your art, then it shouldn't matter to you what they think or who they choose. In fact, embracing what you see there and learning from that, whether it's your style or artwork specifically will help you be a more rounded artist. I saw a show the other night where a singer told her performing arts teacher, "I don't want to dance, I don't want to act, I just want to sing." The teacher told her, "By learning all of these, your singing will be that much better." It's good advice for artists. The more exposure you have to other artists and genres, the more you can learn and apply to better your own work.

I hope I didn't offend anyone, not my intention. As I've always said, art is everything one creates, but there is always going to be people who hang on to their own particular discipline. It's the way of life.

My 2c
ShadowWind