One of the things that is really unique about the community here at Threadless is the positivity. I've been an active member on probably a dozen different forums, and in most there's a really strong sense of elitism. Although you'll find that mentality anywhere, it's especially strong in communities revolving around the Arts. Threadless is different in that it's a very positive and encouraging place to submit artwork. But it seems that this might be doing more to hinder than encourage artists.

I think a lot of people (online and off) have an inflated perception of their artistic abilities, thanks in part to well-meaning friends and family who've told them all their life that they're creative and highly talented prodigies. Most of them have been fooled, and in actuality are creating pretty bad stuff. Some of these have the the right combination of willingness, ability, and drive to get to the point of being a successful artist, but they won't achieve that goal without anyone pointing out their flaws.

Going through my own submissions here on Threadless, I really wish someone had pointed out how terrible my stuff was. The thing for me (and possibly many others) was that the pen-and-paper stuff I was doing at the time (about 6 years ago now) was actually pretty decent, but I had no idea of how to transfer my skills to a digital form. Just getting stuff out there digitally and onto a public forum was a thrill, so I was had no inkling of how crappy the submissions really were... And no one told me!

Interestingly enough, it wasn't until joining other Art forums and posting my work that I began getting a lot of harsh critiques. It hurt my pride, sure, but it also drove me to improve.

The last thing I want, of course, is for Threadless to become another elitist art snob community. There are already loads out there people can join. BUT, I think everyone would benefit from a little more honest critiquing. Are the colors hideous? Is the placement all wrong? Is the linework terrible? Does it simply suck as a tee design? Say so. And if it's a 5$, why? What is the artist doing right? Of course, most winning artists here understand their craft pretty well, but with specific commendation (and the occasional critique), they can grow too.

So let's grow some thicker skin and, in turn, not be afraid to say what we're all thinking. It will only serve to create better artists, or filter out the ones that ought to be pursuing something else.

PS - I'm not sure if a blog like this has been posted recently already. If so, point me in that direction and I'll let this one die.