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i agree.  i'm not interested by them either.  the thing is is that the problem lies more with how those things are used and not with those things themselves. personally, i'd love to see those things removed as well if for no other reason than to create a more relaxed environment, so to speak, and maybe a greater sense of community, but i'm not sure removing them actually addresses what i perceive to be the real problem which is how they are used since what drives them is people's behaviours/tendencies... i'm not asking you to agree, but does that make any sense? 

I agree. But at issue is that only some of us perceive the current state of the galleries as problematic. It's clear that any number of people are delighted with the status quo. So, I think you have to look at the motivating factors before you can effect any change...

• Some people post to get honest feedback on how they are doing...
• Some people post to get their ego stroked...
• Some want attention...
• Some want validation.
• Some people post to sell their/or their friends products...
• Some people post what I think of as postcard art. I don't mean that offensively-- the image itself may be good, bad or indifferent, but it's purpose is to get their online friends to drop in and socialize.
• Some people may even post just to have a portfolio online and are completely indifferent to comments or ratings.

That's just some of the motivations that I can perceive and of those listed the majority probably have no issue with how the gallery is currently functioning and think the community is great.

Just my two cents...
Pearl

kalonart.com