I was reading Reiqs most recent journal entry, reading journals in general is not something I do often, and I was reminded about how often it is that some young artist joins DA.

Now I'm not looking to start an argument or heated series of journals debating this subject but I feel it must be said. Often times these young artists join dA under the idea that they are the-shit when really what they are is the average artist. They com in swaggering and don't even take the time to understand that those that may critique them are only trying to help them, not cut them down. Granted if a person wanted to cut them down they well could by simply being horribly sadistic. However, in my experience those that offer criticism are merely looking to help. True some people aren't exactly some of the most reliable sources of critique but still.

I think the main issue is that a lot of "artists" on this site are far to thin skinned and do not know how to handle a blunt review of their work. This is something they MUST get over before even attempting to get into the art fields. Once you go pro or even college level professors and future employers will not be nice or gentle about your ability to produce and the quality of your work. They will tear you a new one if your not good enough. I my self have had several classmates in various classes leave the room in tears after the professor has proceeded to verbally beat down everything they have put out for review.

Before even considering getting into an art school or starting a freelance career ask your self, "Can i take the verbal ass kicking I may take over my work?""Can I keep my pride in check and my mouth shut?""Can I take what they say and use it to better my future pieces?" If you cannot assure to yourself all of these you are not ready to go to college or freelance. Being able to stop ones pride from driving any response is almost a necessity and it is something that no one can teach you. You learn it by practice and struggling. If you can not control your pride and your mouth when you go for a job or college interview you may very well screw yourself in the long run. Maybe not for several days or even months but you could very well may kill your chances of getting somewhere years down the road.

I think the key here is that people need to stop taking their art so seriously. Art has a purpose and it is not to be taken so seriously people get upset about small critiques. Mainly people, GET OVER YOURSELVES!