Whether you think my vision of the culture is accurate or not, or whether it relates to you is your perogative. I am merely stating things how I see them from my persepctive. Maybe I'm idealistic, but I do think there are other reasons why people post their work that has nothing to do with wanting it critiqued. I've seen so many artists go on to getting better and better, not because people pointed out every flaw in every picture, but because they gave them some encouragement and some tips to send them in the right direction. I love that line, "If you get offended, then your life isn't hard enough." You have no idea how hard someone's life is beyond the screen. A little respect for the person behind the art goes along way. Is it the way fo the art world? Probably not, but it is the way of a community where everybody knows everyone.

No one is trying to censor you. I love how that spectre is thrown around so freely. I honestly don't care if you go out and critique every picture, say what you want, but you can't be surprised if people aren't thankful and impressed that you've shined such wisdom on them. People deal with others in different ways. It's what makes us different.

I am usually very careful about the wording when I do make a suggestion, and often do so in private, not because I'm fearing retaliation but because I do respect the people. Comments stick around, no matter how you change the image, which can make the poster look kinda insane if they update the picture and the comment about a fixed flaw remains. Comments are the equivalent of a guy standing around a piece all day, telling everyone that looked, "Hey, there is a shadow out of place right there." "Er, where?"

As to the hot20 and the schmoozers and all as you call them, I'm not going to get sucked into that debate. It's all been argued before. I do feel bad when talented artists get buried, as do many members. I always try to see new artists and tell people about them. I extend my hand to them. I've always fought for a random showcase gallery rather than the hot20 which would give a fairer shake to a wider range of artists so that talented people don't get buried. However, in the end, those that contribute to the community in some way, are the ones that are going to get recognized. It's the way things are in any community, why should Rosity be different?

ShadowWind