I know you're probably upset with me for suggesting that it might not be wise to complain about others not crediting your work when you constantly delete things. I apologize for that. I didn't realize there were other contributing factors.

But now my curiosity is piqued. You are very talented, and even if I'm not interested in the particular fandom, I can still appreciate the work that you put into each drawing. I admit that I think it's a bit sad that you don't draw original work and only focus on fanart, but that's me being selfish to see what you'd come up with on your own.

So where does the passion come from? Is drawing, for you, merely a compulsion? Are fandom and drawing tied together? What would you draw if you didn't draw fanart?

Thank you for answering. -sweet2nothing

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if i didn’t draw fanart, i wouldn’t draw anything. i would probably write. or teach earth science.

i like seeing what makes a character look like he does, is all. i like the feeling of putting marks on paper. it’s not really passion. it’s arbitrary.

but i think it’s sad that you wish i drew original work. that’s like saying to someone, “i don’t believe this is really you.”

people who draw original art get praised for their vision and creativity. you don’t have to be familiar with any of their characters, and you don’t have to be in any fandom to know what’s going on. no prior knowledge is required because you love what they do as artists.

but people who draw fanart only get a sidestep reaction. it’s either “i don’t know who this is, but you drew it very well” or “congratulations; you’ve made it look like him. now will you please grow up and stop being silly and draw us something we can actually like?”

you wouldn’t think to say these things to regular artists because regular art is about the artist herself. but fanart? well, that’s okay, because fanart is just a trick. it’s just wasted time.

i think you should stop sending me messages.

____________

I can actually heartily agree with Euclase here. Never saw it like this, but it's true. Not everyone craves to be an 'artist' who makes a living with original art. Maybe out of fear, or lack of support. For some it's a calling, a passion, and they pursue their dreams til the very end no matter what - and that's great! But for me it's a wonderful hobby, simple as that. This does not necessarily mean my art is worthless because I have a different mindset, a different approach... or does it?

What do you guys think? Do you view fanart as a waste of time and talent?