why praise if you’re not faving it?

Hi, guys. It’s been a month or so since I last updated this blog. Luckily, I was able to find a good topic to post.

Anyways, yesterday, I made a post on twitter with regards to faving an artwork on deviantart. And here’s what I said:

Not to complain, but i just wonder, why do some people at deviantArt give out very positive comments like “excellent job!” but not faving the piece? Just curious.

Yeah, such online activity is still an enigma to me. I mean, basically, if you fave an art piece, it means to say you like or love it. And leaving a comment is even considered a good praise for the artist. But, if it’s the other way around… I don’t know… it’s kind of ironic to think that one expresses his/her “great” appreciation on the artwork in like seemingly “shocking WOW” manner and not hitting the fave button at all. Personally, it’s ok when someone says “Good job!” or “Nice one!” and then leaves the faving part. But phrases like “Excellent!” or “Great piece!”??? I mean, it’s really simple logic: You are liking the piece that’s why you sometimes leave a comment. And you fave it ’cause you “really really” like it. Simple.

Sometimes, I can’t help but question the sincerity of some people who give “uberly” positive comments and not faving the piece. Not that I am complaining. It’s just confusing and odd to me. On the other hand, I’m not generalizing. And somehow, I was enlightened by few fellow artists who responded on the matter. Check their answers below:

Taclobanon: There are ‘collectors’ in DA who comment on art they like but not fave it ’cause it’s not the sort they collect.

AaronTuron: Maybe they liked the work but not enough to please their eyes.

gilbertmonsanto there are two levels of success with an artwork. One is worth commendation, one is worth keeping.

katbanay  maybe excellent but not excellent enough to be faved. OR — they’re just too lazy to click the button.

Among the posts — though all have good points — what really struck me was Sir Gilbert Monsanto’s. He said:  “There are two levels of success with an artwork. One is worth commendation, one is worth keeping.” Great principe by a very respectable artist. It’s like… “That’s it! End of discussion!” I think this is the perfect answer. Somehow, it clears up everything. Though my opinion on the sincerity part is still there. Well, personally, it may boil down to the approach of the commentors. Nevertheless, I’m glad it doesn’t bother me anymore. And it won’t ever stop me from using deviantArt and most especially appreciating art. That’s for sure.

rhardozed hirit:

See, twitter is definitely a good place to discuss some sensible things. And no offense.