Artwork Discussion

23 November, 2025

Don Sibley
173 Views
2 Comments

Are any of my fellow artists feeling like they are working in a vacuum? I frequently feel like that since there are very few people who can offer heartfelt responses to the art that is posted on AW. It is nice to receive "Awesome work" or POD or some such response, but when you see a new posting what attracted you to respond? As a lifelong artist I have grown to appreciate the art of many who post on AW and it has broadened my horizons seeing the art from around the world. I would like to know what inspired the artist to paint that particular subject. How did they choose the palette of colours and what might they do differently next time? I realize that most people posting on AW are just enjoying themselves and their artwork and are not looking for a critique. I wouldn't want someone to critique my artwork and I am not suggesting to do so. Let's not be critical but rather be thoughtful about your response to what you are seeing. I know that there is a lot of thought and effort that goes into producing a piece of artwork and the courage to post it here for all the world to see is essential. Does anyone feel the same was as I do?

2 Comments

Charles Jones 8 days ago

Don, years ago we had more folks who commented on new uploads. Some of these comments were heartfelt and some were merely to receive 'points' toward being in the top 25 Active Members. I have been here since 2007 and I make a habit of only commenting on work that appeals to me in some way, aesthetically or otherwise. I also try, in my comments, to actually say something relevant. A short three or four word comment is always suspicious to me. This site has always had a rather tenuous sense of community. I think most websites merely reflect what is going on in the 'real' world. The world is not filled with what I call happy neighbors and/or campers.

I have long wondered why I became the person I am. Sometimes I even wonder how. But most days I feel pretty good about myself and what I have achieved in spite of the obstacles people have thrown willy-nilly onto my path. I hope this helps a little. It takes more than a piddling amount of guts to create something that reflects our souls. Not everyone on AW understands that fully. :)

Nira Dabush 3 days ago

Hello Don.... I believe in reciprocity in general and of course in responses in particular. The artists who are active here are mostly busy. Most people, myself included, after decades of creation really don't need criticism, because it's unnecessary at this stage of my life. Being an international artist for many years, with a small part of my works already published in four books. The goal of most of the activists who remain here is to encourage each other or to share in the work and thus get to know different artists from around the world. As a member of this site since 2004. I wish you success. Usually a response brings a response and accordingly by the way... and if not... no one really has the time to follow, without being supported in the same way.

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23 November, 2025