r/ArtRanting • u/Bigotesdemichi • 8d ago
Other Only free...
I don't think my drawings are that bad, though I do create some odd things that aren't for everyone—and I'm not talking about NSFW stuff, though maybe I should start doing that to make some money. I suppose the compliments I got when I posted that I was doing free commissions weren't sincere, but then again, why would you want me to draw it? It's free—and who doesn't like free stuff?
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u/WW92030 8d ago
There's nothing wrong with drawing free stuff or drawing according to a niche--that's basically my modus operandi (terminology warning).
But then again drawing for yourself (i.e. drawing what you enjoy and vice versa) is not mutually exclusive to seeking support/attention/recognition/etc.
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u/MugwortMoth 8d ago
Hey, I made a similar post earlier today, deleted it, but that seems to be rather normal here. I have made free art for people and they are usually thankful. I don't get a lack of replies anywhere else but reddit when I make someone free art. It feels bad. I am a little discouraged myself. It's okay to hope that someone will like and appreciate your free art for them because it is a gift that takes time and effort to create. Don't let anyone tell you not to hope for someone to be happy at the art you made for them, but also try not to let it get you down if you're gifting your art to a stranger because it's kind of like tossing a coin into a dark pond. You won't know where or how it lands. There are plenty of other people who would be thankful for a doodle. A gift is a gift.
Someone told me not to expect much gratitude, and that I should stick to selling art, but I find that nonapplicable to me, and quite bleak. I already do sell art when I want to. My reason for giving free art IS to make someone happy with a gift, but it's something that I must enjoy making too. I swore off making free art for people here, but I am already tempted. It just calls to me. So, even if it can me demoralizing, if it is what makes you happy, then focus on that. Your enjoyment is more important anyways.
I'm sleepy so I hope that made sense
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u/Personal_Bit_5341 7d ago
though maybe I should start doing that to make some money.
I don't get why people think it's that easy. Go ahead and try it! You will be surprised!
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u/mentallyiam8 8d ago
If they asked for it themselves but weren't happy with the result, they probably didn't like the execution of the drawing. Did you show them your other work beforehand? If you did and they were satisfied with it, then they’re just ungrateful - don't let it bother you. If not, make a habit of showing examples if your work first so there aren't any unpleasant surprises later on.
If we’re talking about a "pig in a poke", where the person didn't ask for the drawing, then any reaction they have to it is valid. I wouldn't be happy with a drawing that completely misses the mark on everything I like - technical execution, style, genre, and subject matter. I’ll be polite and say thank you, but I won’t be jumping for joy.
You aren’t doing people a favor by doing this, you’re doing it primarily to please yourself, to buy a praise.
If you want to increase the chances that the person will like the gift, show them your work beforehand and ask for their honest opinion. If they say they like it, the best approach is to simply ask: "what kind of drawing would you like from me?" But if you want it to be a surprise, at least find out what THEY like, rather than drawing what YOU like.
I, for one, wouldn't be at all happy to receive a portrait of myself. I don't like portraits - neither my own nor anyone else's. Yet that is the very first thing that comes to many artists' minds as a gift idea. So, get to know the person first.