Grrr my comment didn't post so now I have to do it again. Has anyone who has stated that the artists' work in the "Hot 20" is stale or bad stopped to think that what one piece of art means to you means something different to other people? That what you see as bad, someone else might find inspiring? As far as entering contests goes, winning one is nice, but pushing your imagination to see what your mind can create is a far more rewarding personal experience. Whether you win or lose at least you showed up in the first place and are putting your work out there, and that means more than any votes or comments ever could. :) It shouldn't be about how much others like you or your work, but how much you like yourself and your work.