Recently I was shared some interesting information.
"There is 1 person in your audience that probably had a shit day/week, & seeing your art made them smile & feel better"
Our art can still make a difference to that 1, or 2, or 3 or be it 1000 people, we help in our own way to make them smile
This resonates with me, even though I'm an incredibly small artist, I know the handful of people that do see my stuff like it, and I'm providing some form of joy for myself and at least a few others, so I hope that it's worthwhile.
I needed this, I've been having art paralysis since all of this has been going down. It nice to know I'm not alone in this headspace. But you are proof that its not the case, this makes me feel seen. This makes me feel hope, despite it all.
My wife is just starting her steps into making art more full time and this same thing hit her too. I had to remind her that what she makes is for her own happiness if others benefit from it too, great but just waking up and still fighting every day as a queer person is already a big act of rebellion
I know it's cringe to share a YouTube video here but this really did help me feel better about all of the everything around me at all times: https://youtu.be/yCm9Ng0bbEQ
It's about how the world is slowly getting better, in spite of all of the news we hear. I hope it helps you like it helped me. <3
As someone who's working a """real job"""; never stop making art, please. You're resisting in some of the best and most important ways possible. Creating for sake of creating matters more than ever.
Art is its own language and is an act of rebellion in the same way you would flood the darkness with light to provide others with the ability to look up. Look outward. Look forward. Art is critical to our species and the stories we convey through it.
You ARE helping. Keep drawing, little rebel.
I feel this so, so much. 🫂 Myself I have been able to get more enjoyment out of drawing stuff for myself again, despite/in spite of everything going on. I hope you are too!!
As I’ve said over and over, unless you specifically have the means, time and connections to push back, there’s very little we the common folk can do. Absolutely do what you can, attend protests, keep people aware etc. but unless the world starts literally exploding around you, all you can do is -
you *are* being helpful. i know what it feels like to post something that feels dissonant with the state of the world. it feels almost wrong to celebrate a victory while so many suffer. but the escapism is important, celebrating the small victories are important
they want us to suffer. they want us to be more miserable than they are so they can feel less miserable by relation. don't let them win. keep creating, keep making those pretty pictures. find joy where the miserable couldn't possibly find it. don't let em take it from you.
Art gives us an escape, a safety net to look to when the world around us is not as kind. Your work helps others. Makes the day alittle brighter for us when it seems all but black.
I know its hard to internalize that but its the truth.
I also work in an artistic entertainment industry, and something that brings me comfort is reminding myself that after every huge catastrophic change through history, what follows is an age of art. I feel the worry in this piece in my bones, but we have to do what we love for as long as we can.
This IS how you do something. Even if you can't help others directly, you can brighten the otherwise dark days with some joy. Everyone can help in their own ways. I help my friends be informed, you give people something to smile about. Don't be hard on yourself for being a small beacon.
Honestly, I'm right there with you. I had a small comic I wanted to make with those feelings in the form of a short haiku, but life is....... coming at all of us fast and furious. Sending positive vibes your way, and let it be known that a little art has been a huge boost of serotonin for me
This is how I feel writing war. Bloodshed and the absolute callousness of those who will never understand that those are people and they had lives and ambitions bring ones mental state to the very brink
Making art is a good escape, hang out with buddies from across the world, even online can help too. Talking, laugh, smile, vent out with the open chest!
Keep going! If you’re making a living as an artist, you are living a dream! Your only obligations are to yourself and your people, but the art you create is so important to people that they are willing to pay you for it. That’s a special thing indeed! Don’t let temporary evil in the world stop that
I said it to a friend before when they were feeling like they don‘t do enough.
We all do as much as we can. What our abilities and strength allow us to do.
You ARE helpful. No matter if its drawing, music, some inspirational words.
Being a moral boost for others is helpful too!
But much love. I know some days are rougher on oneself. Sometimes even I feel like I should do more. But pushing our limits too far will do no good. If we burn ourselves out, we won‘t be able to do any of this.
Morale is important.......actually no, it's critical and essential for living today. if we can't sing and dance and look at art, then everything is lost. So know despite the wildfires, you are helping to keep the world turning :)
"Fantasy is escapist, and that is its glory. If a soldier is imprisoned by the enemy, don’t we consider it his duty to escape?…if we value the freedom of the mind and soul, if we’re partisans of liberty, then it’s our plain duty to escape, and to take as many people with us as we can."
When I was younger, in my early teens, I had a bad habit of catastrophising. Everything was a problem and everything was the end of the world. I was an informed kid, and it was ruining me. Once, my mother took me aside as I was ranting about something - I think it was Bush. >>>
She looked me dead in the eyes and asked me what I was going to do about it. When I prevaricated that there was nothing I could really do, she asked if I was sure. When I admitted, yeah, I was pretty sure, she told me that, then there was no point in being so worried. >>>
On art being escapism; that's true - but art also let's us connect to ourselves and others - be it when we create and we let our inner muse free; to when we read.
If anything it's a resistance to the world the techo fascist are trying to build; with their destruction of self and fear of being.
God. Yeah. I entirely understand and also feel this, op. Make sure to be helpful to urself as well, yeah? Get some food and water, I’m wishing restful times and good sleep upon u
Make art, but maybe less escape and more instruction and comfort and guidance.
Europe hammers home education about Bigots in history to avoid a repeat. Don't offer escape where aspiring Storm Troopers are being groomed. Calm examples through art; reason over escape. Art can fight too.
You ARE being helpful!
We need people who can imagine better things for the future and put them on paper to show everyone else.
After all, how else can we make those imaginings reality.
This basically sums up why I still try to draw and stream for people. If I can make a couple of people smile and give them a little bit more strength to get through the day, then that’s good.
I recently realized why i create. I want to make stories that move people's hearts. Doing so helps people get through lifes ordeals. You indeed are helping by using your craft. Thank you for being brave and showing us your creations.
It’s when life is at its darkest we need art the most, to help us make sense of this crazy world, feel solidarity with humanity, escape into a moment of joy or bridle with righteous anger.
You *are* being helpful. There’s a lot of ugly in the world today. Putting some beauty out there is not capitulating to the ugly or ignoring it, it’s kicking back against it.
“You gotta kick at the darkness till it bleeds daylight”
How I feel at my job making fancy dog treats. At least our quality standards are high, and people’s pets provide emotional support and relief to them in these times. If my work lets folks treat their pets with something special, then, that’s something.
I know it ain't much, but the work you did on Fantasy High Junior Year and Never Stop Blowing Up has brought me so much joy and been something I can reliably watch and get some peace from The Horrors for months now
nothing but love and respect for artists, especially in these times. it’s really hard to be creative right now but you’re right. the art we see and representation is even more important now.
Artists create life and breathe life in so many. Is it escape to cope? Is it escape while everything's burning to find solace and happiness in such a small gem in this world?
So little control, and yet artists dictate our view, fashion, what we hear, eat, what we perceive.
Artists are the most powerful influence to EVERYONE. An artist can actually keep people alive you never know you could. It surpasses you. Art is an expression of senses, feelings, that transcend. Make art, because you actually may save lives over just a single crying piece. Sucks, but it was to me.
Art nourishes the soul and refreshes the mind. Even in the darkest of moments, all it can take is the most basic bit of art... a silly little comic, a funny video, even a simple meme... to make someone go "You know, maybe things aren't so bad". You're helpful in more ways than you realize.
I don't blame you for feeling bad, but please know that you're doing a good thing. The world needs hope and art and pretty pictures, and it's a brave thing to make beauty in a world as troubled as ours. Please be proud of yourself for that.
I felt this in my bones. It's about how I'm making it day to day - if not with creative endeavors, then through my love for my friends and community. Even if all I can do is provide a listening ear for a friend on a bad day, or make my sweetheart laugh, I am helping. We're all in this together.
You are brandishing a weapon few have the strength to truly wield.
You are bringing a light into the darkness that few are able to carry.
You are helping.
You are doing wonders.
Your work is meaningful.
Your work has purpose.
Anyone telling you otherwise is afraid of you.
There's a quote from V for Vendetta which has sprung to mind often of late: "A revolution without dancing is a revolution not worth having". Art matters. Those responsible for this mess can't create it and seek to automate it. That in itself is ample reason to keep drawing/painting/writing/whatever.
Me too ... me too ... but art and beauty and music and community, these are the things that remind us what all the pain and struggle are for. You help, you do, and you are valued, loved, and so very necessary.
Ive been feeling this entirely too much recently, i feel like its unfair sometimes. Ive been reminded that i’m still doing my part though. Its a rough time but people still need time to escape. If we can provide that then we’re still playing a big part. Every movement has its roles i suppose..
This echoes for me strongly. Its hard to keep moving sometimes, but even if all we can do is remind people we care and try to bring a small ray of light, then were helping. Youre doing great.
Its nice to know I'm not the only one feeling this way! We dont have to, but we CAN keep creating art, knowing that we ARE helping people (and ourselves!) through expression is a great reason to keep going <3
Art does so much more than some realize. It can give escapism..it can be Joyful. Hopeful. Empowering. Beautiful. It can express what can’t be put into words. In times like these we need art. We need artists. So yes…you are helping in your way. And it is appreciated you are appreciated
Creation and expression are always important, and I promise you this IS helping! You are bringing light to a world fighting darkness, that in itself is resisting The Horrors™️ and helping others resist too <3
You may not feel like it but you're making a difference; fueling folks who do other tasks that help us through it all & enabling them to do so, & showing others there's still joy to be found in things.
From an ex first responder, thanks for sharing your skill & helping vs everything 🖤
Personally what you do is more important now than ever before. About three weeks ago I went to the ER because I thought I was having a heart attack (it was just a panic attack) but one of the major changes I made was following the bluesky dedicated art feed. My blood pressure has never been lower
Hey! What you do matters. You make the world a better place with your pretty drawings. Don't feel ashamed, please. Moreover, with comics like this, you are giving a voice not only to yourself but to many artists who feel the same. You do your best, and no one can ask for more. Thank you.
It's what's necessary. It's what's expected. Existence is resistance. Communicating with the community is key. Thank you for sharing, as it's exactly how I feel too.
flip it on its head. imagine a world with no more LGBT supporting art, no more pictures or photos or movies or music supporting LGBT people, or BIPOC, or immigrants, or anyone under assault right now. Not having that beauty, not having that color, that representation? People would wither and die.
It's upsetting times, but times like these are exactly when people need art, you're right. People need art to escape, understand, spread awareness, or to fight it. That's how we've used it throughout history. Just as artists were meant to exist then, you're meant to exist now. and you're helping <3
When I worked at the job before my current one, sometimes my route there took me past a cardboard box factory that had a letterboard out front. I remember one day especially.
"Earth" without "art" is just "Eh".
Maybe you can't fix things right now, but at least you can help others feel better.
YOU ARE BEING HELPFUL 😭 no one wants to see bad news all the time. We need a break. Love is what gets us through hard times and your love for your craft and ✨ pretty pictures ✨ is what we need. Be a testimony that even when shit gets really rough humans still create
I have been through so much abuse, trauma, and injustice in my life. The only thing that offered relief after those emotional/physical beatings was art. Cartoons, anime, video games, comics - it helped me to take my mind off things. Art was one of the few small morsels of joy I had growing up
If art wasn’t important and needed, then fascists wouldn’t go after it so viciously. The Nazis made a priority to destroy art and decry it as “degenerate” because it’s so important, even if it just gives someone a little enjoyment in a terrible world.
Definitely art is a massive help for people, without art we can only experience things in reality and feel alone, art brings people together and supports them!
Bloody boots of the Morrigan!!! Are you reading my mind right now?
I'm feeling exactly like that (except that I write books and compose music instead of drawing)
So, thanks for putting this in pictures & words.
I needed this and didn't knew I needed it.
I feel this. Every day. Trying hard to just focus on the good. Trying hard to be the good. I found out that the best way to do this is to literally, shut off the internet. Disconnect for a while. Limit your connections to just your friends. The internet is chaotic, but your friends are your support.
What you are doing is still important. You know exactly what this feed of constant negativity is doing to people. Giving people reasons to smile, laugh and at least have some joy in the darkness right now is a good thing.
This piece alone snapped me out of a really bad headspace this morning. Even though it might not be fixing everything else, your art has at least helped one person.
Through everything that has ever happened to humanity one thing remains true. Art is a big part of getting us through. Art provides emotion, beauty, and so much more for so many people. Sometimes the only reason I'm able to get by is the art people create.
It's not just mere escapism. Without artists we would only be fed despair and horror. More than ever we need wholesome food for our souls.
Without art we are crushed.
art and what we do on our time is also something entirely ours. they cant take that away. our fantasies, our minds, they can never take our creativity away. creating things that aren't in the regime is fighting back It takes the control away from them even if for a moment. its what we need sometimes
in hard times like this, art is extremely valuable...
it's not only escapism, it's a goal to achieve, a better tomorrow, it shows the good in humanity to strive for every day, to fight against all suffering and sorrow, it's fuel for the soul...
Very Likely, Just Drawing EscapismArt Is All That You CAN Do To Quell The Flames. I Mean You COULD Try To Spread News And Form Strategies For Survival, But The Former's Well Staffed, And The Latter May Not Be Your Best Merits Over Offering The Actual Fighters Some Reprieve.
Comments
"There is 1 person in your audience that probably had a shit day/week, & seeing your art made them smile & feel better"
Our art can still make a difference to that 1, or 2, or 3 or be it 1000 people, we help in our own way to make them smile
your escapism art is welcome and so is this rougher-feeling stuff too
It all helps <3
Especially social media is throwing a cacaphony of chaos and negativity. It wittles you down.
The situation is bad but truth is people need more to live for. Art. Positivity. Things to aspire to.
That is not doing nothing. It's helping.
Be gentle with yourself and take care 💜
Art is imagery
Images symbolize something deeper than words.
What can any of us do?
At least you can express something profound, important, meaningful, and share your voice publicly.
Proud of you!
Thank you
Blessings
🙏❤️🙏
It's about how the world is slowly getting better, in spite of all of the news we hear. I hope it helps you like it helped me. <3
You ARE helping. Keep drawing, little rebel.
I know I cruise bsky just looking for art as a reprieve from all the shit.
I'm sure others do too.
Hang in there <3. You're helping more than you know.
Believe it
I know its hard to internalize that but its the truth.
What we create does help people. Even if we may never hear from them, or even meet them.
You are not alone Cait. We will prevail!
We all do as much as we can. What our abilities and strength allow us to do.
You ARE helpful. No matter if its drawing, music, some inspirational words.
Being a moral boost for others is helpful too!
LeGuin paraphrased Tolkien on this well. Let me find it...
For now, just try to listen to your local area's problems instead. You can't change national issues, but you might be able to help something local.
Don't worry. We've got each other's backs, in turn. Things will be okay, eventually. It's okay to take a break.
It's guided me pretty well. Do what you can, with what you have, then stop. Turn off the notifs. Turn off the pings. *step. away.*
If anything it's a resistance to the world the techo fascist are trying to build; with their destruction of self and fear of being.
People also need light, hope and some joy in their lives too.
Never underestimate what you do.
This IS the time when art is needed!
So let's keep fukkin doing it, WOOO!!
I am reminded of this image I came across. Everyone can contribute toward making things better, whatever your situation, abilities, or resources. <3
Art is not gasoline
Yet, I write about death and horrors beyond comprehension
Frustrated with the world's influence on my work, I have decided that an upheaval in the name of progress is necessary
THEN will come the folk legends
You're being helpful
Europe hammers home education about Bigots in history to avoid a repeat. Don't offer escape where aspiring Storm Troopers are being groomed. Calm examples through art; reason over escape. Art can fight too.
All is needed, and everyone can have their focus. <3
We need people who can imagine better things for the future and put them on paper to show everyone else.
After all, how else can we make those imaginings reality.
This all sucks, that much is certain. It'll keep sucking for the next 4 years.
That said, protests are still happening, people are supporting one another, and there's even dissention from those who sided with bigots-
- as an artist it can and will be overwhelming. But the way i see it, its best to do one of two things.
1) Step back from it all. Take a breath. Do something else. Come back to it later.
2) Keep making art. Keep existing. Do it to spite the pricks. Don't let them beat you down.
He fought back with the art he drew, the characters he created, and the stories he helped make.
Never doubt your impact through art
We need to keep our art and culture alive at any cost
You are important and you are valid
thank you for making art
“You gotta kick at the darkness till it bleeds daylight”
Theres a fire in me that won't go out
But its getting dim
Don't forget to give yourself the gentleness you would give your loved ones 💕
So little control, and yet artists dictate our view, fashion, what we hear, eat, what we perceive.
But can't let joy die
Can't let them take even our heart
I feel this way so frequently. Reading the replies on this helps remind me why it’s still important.
You are bringing a light into the darkness that few are able to carry.
You are helping.
You are doing wonders.
Your work is meaningful.
Your work has purpose.
Anyone telling you otherwise is afraid of you.
Catharsis is just as important for coping and processing
And this piece is the most helpful thing everyone needs to see right now.
Please take care of yourself. The world needs more people like you, now more than ever.
From an ex first responder, thanks for sharing your skill & helping vs everything 🖤
Fucking sucks and it caused a cascade of events which cost me 1K...
But there is a bright side to it! Aperantly air-cooling is way cheaper and WAY more effective then water cooling...
"Earth" without "art" is just "Eh".
Maybe you can't fix things right now, but at least you can help others feel better.
Is it frivolity?
Maybe... beauty?
Or is it Reified Pathos?
You tell me; I draw to extract myself from a world that would see me broken.
The world can't be taken too seriously, lest it lead to one's ruin, but some matters must remain serious.
Thank you for your services~
Permission to archive this in The Tapes?
And as someone currently using art to escape, you ARE helping 🥰
I'm feeling exactly like that (except that I write books and compose music instead of drawing)
So, thanks for putting this in pictures & words.
I needed this and didn't knew I needed it.
Yes, the world is horrible. It has always been bad, it is simply the scale of info we get today.
It never stopped the artists of old from their craft.
Even if you can only help yourself, then that’s enough. Surviving is important. Draw for yourself, if anything. Let it be your outlet.
Without art we are crushed.
It's a way to forget reality, even if it's only for a single moment, it inspires and encourages other people to be creative, too.
It's food for our starved souls, and we're going to need it if we want to make it through this, all of us, together
Your work matters.
It matters to you because you enjoy it.
It matters to your family because you are making a living and surviving.
And…
The world is in a rough spot now and it’s hard to ignore the suffering of others.
But you are a good person.
Keep surviving.
Keep working.
You are doing Good!
it's not only escapism, it's a goal to achieve, a better tomorrow, it shows the good in humanity to strive for every day, to fight against all suffering and sorrow, it's fuel for the soul...
What CAN You Do?
CAN You OverTurn Laws?
CAN You Quell Entire WildFires?
This Is'nt Meant To Put You Down. Saying The Truth Never Is.
You Are One Person Near The Bottom Of Society, You CAN'NT Solve Every Problem.
None Of The Things The Media Blares About Can Be UnDone By A Single Hero, So Not Being That Hero Is.... Just CommonSense.
Keep Your Limits In Mind Every Time The Big Dogs Blame YOU For The World's Problems.
SO, A Bonus Idea To Crack Those Feelings Of Not Doing Enough For The Effort:
CAN, You Do More?
SomeTimes, Even Demons Get Delusional, And If One Takes The Time To Shatter Their Tinted Glasses, MayHaps They Will Finally Concede.