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Down-to-Earth Magic Contest Closed
6 min read
Issued on behalf of 
The second contest held at Digiversity is finally closed. AFter a one-month extension due to requests and time constraints the contest has come to an end and the judging process will commence soon. The concept behind the contest was bringing visual artists and writers together in collaboration showing us where they find magic in the everyday world. You can view more details here:
Opening article
I want to officially apologise for the inconvenience I have surely caused to some participants. There might be slight delays in the judging process and the announcing of the winner which are due to time constraints on my part as well as limited access to the site but I promise to do my best.
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If I missed someone it was either unintentional or I didn't receive the note. Please note me if your entry wasn't listed here.
Contest Entries
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If I missed someone it was either unintentional or I didn't receive the note. Please note me if your entry wasn't listed here.
Donors Feature
In gratitude to everyone who supported this event we have decided to make a feature of the people who donated to or advertised the contest. We will be eternally grateful to you!
In no particular order
These lovely people and amazing groups have helped promoting the contest and spreading the word. It touches me deeply how helpful and responsive you are. Thank you!
The prizes for the winners have been provided by these generous people whose kindness brought me to tears. I have never expected that I could receive such help. Thank you!
The judging process will commence shortly. Due to the number of entries, the multiple criteria, the length of the literary works and the levels of judging, it might take some time to announce the winners. I know you have all been waiting for quite a long time now and I sincerely apologize for this.
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SUbmitted by Nobody on behalf of
In no particular order
These lovely people and amazing groups have helped promoting the contest and spreading the word. It touches me deeply how helpful and responsive you are. Thank you!
The prizes for the winners have been provided by these generous people whose kindness brought me to tears. I have never expected that I could receive such help. Thank you!
The judging process will commence shortly. Due to the number of entries, the multiple criteria, the length of the literary works and the levels of judging, it might take some time to announce the winners. I know you have all been waiting for quite a long time now and I sincerely apologize for this.
~~~~~
SUbmitted by Nobody on behalf of
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Down-to-Earth Magic Contest Extended
19 min read
Updates
I would like to sincerely apologize to everyone who participated in this contest in any way for the huge delay. I have had no access to the site for three weeks now and since I am the only one running the contest it was inevitable that the article isn't published on time. My deepest apologies to the entrants whose entries have not been yet submitted to the gallery and to the people who have been asking me about the extension of the deadline. It was supposed to be extended by one more month, until October 21st but to compensate for my absence I will extend it to November 11th, which gives you one more month to find a partner, create your entry and submit it.
The reason for the extension is not only my limited availability at the moment but also the number of entries. There have been a lot of efforts, dedication and resources invested into the contest so let's give the judges a little bit more work. Not to mention there have been several requests for extension and people who didn't manage to find a partner on time. I am aware this is partially unfair to those who worked hard in order to finish on time and I hope you will not be too upset with my decision.
The following article will be a copy of the opening one to save you going to that one to check the rules. Every new information will be tagged with
.
Any updates to the prize list and the judging panels will be included in
This Blog
The reason for the extension is not only my limited availability at the moment but also the number of entries. There have been a lot of efforts, dedication and resources invested into the contest so let's give the judges a little bit more work. Not to mention there have been several requests for extension and people who didn't manage to find a partner on time. I am aware this is partially unfair to those who worked hard in order to finish on time and I hope you will not be too upset with my decision.
The following article will be a copy of the opening one to save you going to that one to check the rules. Every new information will be tagged with
.Any updates to the prize list and the judging panels will be included in
This Blog
Concept & Cause
The idea behind this contest is not only to give you the opportunity to win prizes - we are aiming to make a tiny step towards uniting the communities of visual artists and writers. The gap between literature and visual art is tangible and real and we need to acknowledge it.
We had the opportunity to witness a highlight in this split at the launching of DeviantArt Muro. There was an uproar from the literature community - where are the much needed extras and developments for writers, why is the site only nurturing the party of digital artists? There is a painful lack of communication between the two groups, communication which can only ever be beneficial to both.
Yes, this is a concern that should be immediately addressed and this is our way to do it. Because this contest is not about the quality of an entry, it's about the quality of a collaboration.
So we are asking you to find someone from the opposite group and create the perfect combination between a story and an illustration.
In order to participate, firstly find a friend to collaborate with. If you don't know anyone suitable or no one wants to work with you, note Nobody outlining what part of the collaboration you would be doing - the visual or the literature part (or even any of them) and we will add you to a special journal where other people looking for a partner may find you or you can view the journal for other people looking for a partner. This way you might also make a new friend! 
As a team come up with a story according to the theme (below). One of you will have to write about the story and the other will have to make an illustration to go with the literature piece. In order to be an eligible entry the two must go together as a pair. The illustration could present a particular moment from the written piece or serve as its presentation (i.e. as a book cover). The possibilities are endless and we will be flexible but make sure the link between the two is visible.
Copy the link/URL of the two works and/or the thumbnail number (FAQ #511: How do I post thumbnails of my art on the Chat Network or Forums?), paste it in a note to Digiversity with "Contest Entry" as a subject before 11th November 2010, 23:59 EET (Time zone converter).
The entry will be added to the group's contest folder.
We had the opportunity to witness a highlight in this split at the launching of DeviantArt Muro. There was an uproar from the literature community - where are the much needed extras and developments for writers, why is the site only nurturing the party of digital artists? There is a painful lack of communication between the two groups, communication which can only ever be beneficial to both.
Yes, this is a concern that should be immediately addressed and this is our way to do it. Because this contest is not about the quality of an entry, it's about the quality of a collaboration.
So we are asking you to find someone from the opposite group and create the perfect combination between a story and an illustration.
Participation, Collaboration, Submission
In order to participate, firstly find a friend to collaborate with. If you don't know anyone suitable or no one wants to work with you, note Nobody outlining what part of the collaboration you would be doing - the visual or the literature part (or even any of them) and we will add you to a special journal where other people looking for a partner may find you or you can view the journal for other people looking for a partner. This way you might also make a new friend! As a team come up with a story according to the theme (below). One of you will have to write about the story and the other will have to make an illustration to go with the literature piece. In order to be an eligible entry the two must go together as a pair. The illustration could present a particular moment from the written piece or serve as its presentation (i.e. as a book cover). The possibilities are endless and we will be flexible but make sure the link between the two is visible. Copy the link/URL of the two works and/or the thumbnail number (FAQ #511: How do I post thumbnails of my art on the Chat Network or Forums?), paste it in a note to Digiversity with "Contest Entry" as a subject before 11th November 2010, 23:59 EET (Time zone converter).The entry will be added to the group's contest folder.
Theme & Prompts
The theme as the title of the contest suggests is magic. It has to be, however, linked inexorably with day-to-day normal non-magical life. The theme is open for interpretation - it could be about:
the magic of nature's beauty that you've spotted in an unusual place;
the story of the secret magicians' society;
a puzzling deja-vu and how it could possibly be blamed upon a wicked wizard;
how a weird dream or nightmare magically comes true on the next day;
the trivial daily lives of magicians which remain in the shadows in fantasy books.
a magical creature doing its everyday chores;
a superhero without the glamourous superheroic costume;
Use your imagination and don't forget that the judging will be based on originality as well! 
And most importantly, make sure your works tell a story. For any questions, feel free to leave a comment.
the magic of nature's beauty that you've spotted in an unusual place; the story of the secret magicians' society; a puzzling deja-vu and how it could possibly be blamed upon a wicked wizard; how a weird dream or nightmare magically comes true on the next day; the trivial daily lives of magicians which remain in the shadows in fantasy books. a magical creature doing its everyday chores; a superhero without the glamourous superheroic costume; Use your imagination and don't forget that the judging will be based on originality as well! And most importantly, make sure your works tell a story. For any questions, feel free to leave a comment.
Media Allowed
This contest will be exclusively for pairs - a digital artist and a writer. A valid entry consists of two works by two DIFFERENT artists - one visual digital artwork and one literature piece. For the purposes of the contest we will not accept a pair created by one person since our aim is to encourage collaboration.
Digital Media
Digital painting and drawing
Photomanipulation and mixed media
Text art
Pixel art (static or animated)
3D art
Vector and vexel
Due to its abstract nature fractal art will NOT be accepted.
Fan art will be accepted.
Literature
Prose - fiction
Narrative Poetry
We need you to tell us a story, so please, keep it narrative.
The word limit is 1500 words for prose and 300 lines for poetry.
The contest is open only to DIGITAL MEDIA and LITERATURE!
Number of entries allowed: 1 per every pair. You can, however, collaborate with different artists numerous times.
A valid entry consists of two works - one digital artwork and one literature piece.
Maximum length for the literature pieces: 1500 words of prose or 300 lines of poetry.
You do NOT need to be a member of the group to participate but if you enter you will be invited to become a member.
The entry must be a new work created specifically for this contest.
The entry must be created according to the theme. Entries, which do not abide by the theme, will be not be accepted.
Judges cannot enter in the category they judge. They can, however, take part in the other category.
People who have donated can participate in the contest.
The entry must be submitted in the correct gallery in dA and abide by DeviantArt's official rules, e.g. if you use any stock images or resources, you must give credit to the author in your artist's comments/description.
The entry must be submitted within the time limit (see above).
Link to this article in your artist's comments/description so that other people can find it and so that it is known that the work was specifically created for this contest.
All entries which do not abide by these rules will be discarded.
Digital Media
Digital painting and drawing Photomanipulation and mixed media Text art Pixel art (static or animated) 3D art Vector and vexel Due to its abstract nature fractal art will NOT be accepted. Fan art will be accepted.Literature
Prose - fiction Narrative Poetry We need you to tell us a story, so please, keep it narrative. The word limit is 1500 words for prose and 300 lines for poetry.
Deadline
Rules
The contest is open only to DIGITAL MEDIA and LITERATURE! Number of entries allowed: 1 per every pair. You can, however, collaborate with different artists numerous times. A valid entry consists of two works - one digital artwork and one literature piece. Maximum length for the literature pieces: 1500 words of prose or 300 lines of poetry. You do NOT need to be a member of the group to participate but if you enter you will be invited to become a member. The entry must be a new work created specifically for this contest. The entry must be created according to the theme. Entries, which do not abide by the theme, will be not be accepted. Judges cannot enter in the category they judge. They can, however, take part in the other category. People who have donated can participate in the contest. The entry must be submitted in the correct gallery in dA and abide by DeviantArt's official rules, e.g. if you use any stock images or resources, you must give credit to the author in your artist's comments/description. The entry must be submitted within the time limit (see above). Link to this article in your artist's comments/description so that other people can find it and so that it is known that the work was specifically created for this contest. All entries which do not abide by these rules will be discarded.
Prizes
Due to the nature of the contest the prize list will be divided into three sections: Best Digital Piece, Best Literature Piece, Best Collaboration (with prizes for both entrants)
The prize list is still being generated. To check the current prize list, please check
THE GROUP'S BLOG
Best Literature Piece
Six-month Premium Membership or 1300 DeviantArt points 
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One-month Subscription by Nobody
Special extended news article feature by me (Nobody)
Journal features by Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody.
2 Constructive comments on selected works by Nobody, 1 constructive comment by Nobody and one critique on a selected work by Nobody.
One illustration of a literature piece of your choice by Nobody
Faves by Nobody
Llamas by Nobody, Nobody, Nobody and Nobody
A feature in Nobody
A custom small hand-bound book with the winning entry by Nobody
Best Digital Piece
Six-month Premium Membership or 1300 DevianArt points .
1 special dA sticker by Nobody (for this purpose the winner must provide his/her mailing address)
1 digital monocolor/shaded image by Nobody
Special extended news article feature by me (Nobody)
Journal features by Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody.
2 Constructive comments on selected works by Nobody and one critique on a selected work by Nobody.
One full body, colour background gift artwork by Nobody
Faves by Nobody
Llamas by Nobody and Nobody
A feature in Nobody
A custom small hand-bound book commission by Nobody
1 Exclusive Stock from Nobody
Best Collaboration
Six-month Premium Membership or 1300 DevianArt points for each of the collaborators .
Special extended news article feature by me (Nobody)
Journal features by Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody.
1 Constructive comments on selected works by Nobody and one critique on a selected work by Nobody for each of the collaborators.
One half body, simple background gift artwork from Nobody for each collaborator.
Faves by Nobody
Llamas by Nobody, Nobody and Nobody
A feature in Nobody
A custom small hand-bound book with the winning entries for both participants by Nobody
A digital painting sized 5"x7" for both winners, subject of choice by Nobody
1 Exclusive Stock from Nobody for the digital entrant.
All Entrants
News article feature by me (Nobody).
Llamas by Nobody and Nobody (if we haven't already given one to you).
All donations will be most appreciated - from features and llamas to points, subscriptions, commissions, prints etc. Donators will also be featured in a special news article and can count on me for future projects. If you would like to donate, please send me a note with "Prize Donation" as the subject so I can add you to the list.
Criteria:
Digital entries: originality, technical skills, adherence to the theme;
Literature entries: originality, word choice and composition, adherence to the theme;
Collaborations: originality, team work and how well the two go together.
The Jury
The jury will be separated into two panels: for digital art and literature. The current judges as well as open positions can be viewed in THE GROUP'S BLOG.
Apply
If you would like to apply for a judging position, please note Nobody or Digiversity including which panel you would like to judge in, why you would like to participate and what experience you've had judging in contests.
Judging process
Details on the judging process will be enclosed at the closing of the contest.
The prize list is still being generated. To check the current prize list, please check
THE GROUP'S BLOGPrizes collected so far:
Best Literature Piece
Six-month Premium Membership or 1300 DeviantArt points . One-month Subscription by Nobody Special extended news article feature by me (Nobody) Journal features by Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody. 2 Constructive comments on selected works by Nobody, 1 constructive comment by Nobody and one critique on a selected work by Nobody. One illustration of a literature piece of your choice by Nobody Faves by Nobody Llamas by Nobody, Nobody, Nobody and Nobody A feature in Nobody A custom small hand-bound book with the winning entry by NobodyBest Digital Piece
Six-month Premium Membership or 1300 DevianArt points . 1 special dA sticker by Nobody (for this purpose the winner must provide his/her mailing address) 1 digital monocolor/shaded image by Nobody Special extended news article feature by me (Nobody) Journal features by Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody. 2 Constructive comments on selected works by Nobody and one critique on a selected work by Nobody. One full body, colour background gift artwork by Nobody Faves by Nobody Llamas by Nobody and Nobody A feature in Nobody A custom small hand-bound book commission by Nobody 1 Exclusive Stock from NobodyBest Collaboration
Six-month Premium Membership or 1300 DevianArt points for each of the collaborators . Special extended news article feature by me (Nobody) Journal features by Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody, Nobody. 1 Constructive comments on selected works by Nobody and one critique on a selected work by Nobody for each of the collaborators. One half body, simple background gift artwork from Nobody for each collaborator. Faves by Nobody Llamas by Nobody, Nobody and Nobody A feature in Nobody A custom small hand-bound book with the winning entries for both participants by Nobody A digital painting sized 5"x7" for both winners, subject of choice by Nobody 1 Exclusive Stock from Nobody for the digital entrant.All Entrants
News article feature by me (Nobody). Llamas by Nobody and Nobody (if we haven't already given one to you).All donations will be most appreciated - from features and llamas to points, subscriptions, commissions, prints etc. Donators will also be featured in a special news article and can count on me for future projects. If you would like to donate, please send me a note with "Prize Donation" as the subject so I can add you to the list.
Judging
Criteria:Digital entries: originality, technical skills, adherence to the theme;
Literature entries: originality, word choice and composition, adherence to the theme;
Collaborations: originality, team work and how well the two go together.
The JuryThe jury will be separated into two panels: for digital art and literature. The current judges as well as open positions can be viewed in THE GROUP'S BLOG.
ApplyIf you would like to apply for a judging position, please note Nobody or Digiversity including which panel you would like to judge in, why you would like to participate and what experience you've had judging in contests.
Judging processDetails on the judging process will be enclosed at the closing of the contest.
Support Us
We would be most grateful if you support our cause by promoting the contest and spreading the word about it. Everyone who promotes the contest will be included in a special feature after the closing of the contest.
We've so far been promoted by:
Prizes donated so far by:
Apologies if I missed anyone!
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Issued by Nobody on behalf of
We've so far been promoted by: Prizes donated so far by:Apologies if I missed anyone!
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Issued by Nobody on behalf of
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Back from first week in uni
3 min read
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DeviantArt Role Models - pullingcandy
26 min read
Introduction
For many months after I joined deviantART it was only there for me to submit my doodles and wait patiently for others to find them, comment and fav. Many people on this site still believe this. But the truth is that this community wouldn’t have been so thriving hadn’t it been for a special guild of deviants who decided it was worth dedicating their time to promoting others’ art, to helping their fellow artists improve, to encouraging art creation instead of indulging in their personal artistic endeavors. Some of these people are our volunteers – members of the CR and COp teams who work every day to better our community. Others don’t have a fancy symbol in front of their name but this doesn’t stop them from being a community example and nurturing positivity and inspiration among artists.
This series aims to showcase exactly this part of deviantART’s population – the people who take care of others and are constantly occupied with making dA a better place for newcomers and seniors alike. Contrary to most interviews, this one will not be focusing on the art of the interviewee but on their activity and projects on deviantART. I am urging each one of you to spare a minute of your time and express your gratitude and appreciation to the people featured in this series.
This series aims to showcase exactly this part of deviantART’s population – the people who take care of others and are constantly occupied with making dA a better place for newcomers and seniors alike. Contrary to most interviews, this one will not be focusing on the art of the interviewee but on their activity and projects on deviantART. I am urging each one of you to spare a minute of your time and express your gratitude and appreciation to the people featured in this series.
Interview with Nobody
In this issue I present you Nobody - a quiet but hard-working deviant who shows enviable dedication not to one but to two large art fields. She’s also very friendly, approachable and kind, always ready to answer questions, take suggestions and reach out a helping hand to those in need.
My name is Kay, I'm 30 (I mean 29 forever). I live in Northern Alberta, Canada. My occupation is a stay at home Mom (most rewarding job I've ever had).
I found dA about 7 or 8 years ago on the recommendation of a friend. I was exploring the art world online, as I had been strictly paper/pencil before hand, as well as just writing by hand in a notebook when I wrote. I found a LOT of anime, and was currently obsessed - I signed up under a name I don't even remember now *chuckle* and made a few accounts until 2 years ago when I decided on Nobody. The atmosphere, the people, the continous flow of information and the general communal scope was impressive, so I stuck around.
My current position is the Horror/Macabre Photography volunteer gallery moderator, which means that I handle every spooky, gory, gruesome and terrifying photograph that comes through my inbox and through browsing. I feature DD's and generally try to promote as much as I can for the genre, which is often misunderstood.
How did you first encounter horror photography and why did it appeal to you?
dA has always been a fantastic resource for blood and guts. Encountering it was inevitable, but my first big leap in to it was when my daughter came to me and asked me to make her scary. So I researched using children in horror and macabre related work, using dA as a stepping stone, and I was surprised how often it came up. It appealed to me because it was outside my normal scope (I was primarily a cat photographer, in the learning process if you will so I used my pets) and once I was challenged on my ideals and morality, of course I wasn't going to stop. Not to mention, it appealed and appeals to me because the community for dark artists is so NICE! You'd be shocked, I'm sure. And I love horror movies, B-Grade, as well as anything shlocky and awful.
A few of Kay’s horror photographs
How long have you been into horror photography before you decided to volunteer and what or who encouraged you to?
March 2011 will signify 2 years in specifically horror/macabre photography for me, so I started in March 2010 and that would have been about 8 months before my volunteer position, my daughter was my test subject and then I worked on a big set that allowed me to create props and work with my hands, so I was hooked. I did not decide to volunteer, actually, I was recommended to Nobody - And when I got the offer, I couldn't turn it down. Nobody was my encouragement in the decision, without her I would have never continued down that path.
Tell me about your experience as a GM - how was it for you in the beginning, how have you interacted with others GMs and the community and what is involved in the position?
At the beginning, it was a daunting experience. I was completely lost and very nervous - I still am, actually. I'm incredibly shy, it doesn't help me at all in situations like this, being a voice for such a large community. On that note, being so shy hasn't made it easy to interact with the other GM's, I'm afraid I'm somewhat of a low lying entity, I keep to myself and try not to stir the water.
Though I volunteer at many of the community relations groups, I tend to be very undercover. Those GM's that I HAVE interacted with, it's been just like talking to anybody else. A few of us have teamed up for contests and challenges, and I know a few things are in the works regarding something like that again.
As for what I do with my position, I am required to mingle with the community as the voice for the gallery I represent. I feature daily deviations, I promote everything that is sent to me in whatever way I can, I make sure that I am an outlet for the darker artists, somebody they can come to and chat with, or suggest to, or ask for help. I'm always trying to help as much as I can, and I feel that while I am a moderator of a smaller gallery, the biggest role I could possibly play is the one of a helper. It's not about me, it's about THEM and YOU, as a whole. The entire community.
A few of the daily deviations featured by Nobody
On the questions of daily deviations, many people are unaware about how they are chosen and what happens behind the scenes. So I’d like to ask you to tell me more about the backstage work involved in featuring them - how you choose them, what criteria you have, how many suggestions you receive, if you have regular suggestors, how you react when people disapprove of a feature, if people often come to thank you and what the whole experience is like for you?
Daily Deviations are one of the biggest perks about being a GM. Not only do I get to feature something outstanding I find myself, but I get a LOT more suggestions then I thought I would when I started. Being a fairly small circle of folks, the darker community sends me so many I actually have a hard time keeping track of them, which doesn't reflect so well on me, but I have had a hard time gaining my footing when it comes to the notes and the suggestions. I'm only human though.
Behind the scenes, it's actually quite tough. I'm sure some would dispute this, but when I have an influx of what seems like a lot to me, it gets overwhelming. I've got nothing but respect for the GM's of the bigger galleries, I can't even imagine...
When I choose a DD, I specifically look for the size of the photograph and if it's clear, it doesn't have to be 'unique', because the genre IS NOT unique - there are a few that are simply out of this world and different, but the majority are about what you'd expect, which makes them no less great if they are properly taken. I look for under exposed suggestions too, because I love to get a name out there if I can. If it comes to me and has 1,200 favorites, chances are I won't feature it because I can't do any more for it than they already did.
I have a circle of people who suggest on a regular basis to me, so I have to space them out accordingly but I don't generally prefer one person over the other, that wouldn't be fair. I get very excited when I see somebody self promoting as well! It takes guts to do that! Especially in the genre they are promoting in, as it's a scary place, like artistic nude - people come to a lot of conclusions they shouldn't about the people who make the art.
When people disapprove of a feature, I honestly hope that they will come to me instead of leaving nasty comments on the piece. The deviant who receives the DD doesn't normally ask for it, it's not their fault - I react accordingly, most of the time not at all, but usually with a link to the FAQ on how a DD is chosen, who chooses it, and why. More people should brush up on that, it's not fair to be nasty when there is no reason to me. Mature content filter is there for a reason, and people don't have to look.
People do not actually thank me on a regular basis. It's nice when they do, but I am not doing this for myself. I am doing it for the community! When I get thanked, I feel warm and glowy, and I genuinely hope I've made somebody’s day, but it's not mandatory - more often than not it doesn't happen at all.
You are currently issuing a regular horror photography art feature called “The A,B,C’s of Horror”. How did you come up with it? How do you find the pieces you feature? What response have you got for it?
Honestly, how I came up with it is NOT very exciting. I wanted to do something that spanned a few weeks, promoting horror photography, and as I was grabbing a soda one day, I saw the alphabet magnets on the fridge and thought, 'Hey...you know...I bet I could make that work out.' And so I did.
As for finding the pieces, what I do is I take the words I come up with, or that are suggested, I go to browse, then go to Photography, Horror/Macabre, and I type them in - then I scroll through and see what comes up. I don't have an extensive search for them at all, I pick the first 3 to 6 that I see that are appropriate and I go with that.
The response has been amazing! Well, as amazing as 25 regular 'loves' on the news articles a week has been, anyway. But that's a lot to me! It means 25 people saw and looked. And ever since I've opened it up to word suggestions, I get lots of notes with these really interesting and random words according to letter, some even come with descriptions and I find that entertaining because I get to learn something too.
You’re also conducting a series of interviews called “The Horror Scope”. Can you tell us a bit more about it?
The Horror Scope was designed to bring to light darker artists in another setting, something more mundane and normal, so to speak. I ask them about their darker work, how they feel about dA's dark community, and then I try to ask them some simpler questions...about life, or puppies, or something else small and cute so that people who read it can see that they are JUST LIKE everyone else in essence. It came about because I am so tired of being judged myself, and I am so sad when I see people I give features to getting their work completely trashed by somebody who has NO idea why the work was made, who the person is, and they don't even take the time to get to know the person before they judge them.
This happens in every genre, but I only specifically work in one, so I felt it was time to bring to light the softer side of these people. The idea FINALLY came to fruition when I got harshly criticized and told I was going to Hell because I have used my daughter for despairing photography. I can only imagine what others go through as well. Nobody stopped to think that maybe my daughter came to ME with the idea, nobody stopped to ask whether or not there were alterior motives - they just judged and it was unfair. As for the questions, I try to find out about the people I interview, it's only in it's second issue so far, but I try to gather tidbits about them, then form my questions according to their galleries and I like to get a bit of cute real life information in there too, so I randomly select whatever comes to my mind first for that question. The response has been quite vast, I have at least 13 weeks of interviews with 2 on the market already...And I wish I had more.
You are a founding figure of the following groups: Nobody, Nobody, Nobody and Nobody. Can you briefly describe what those groups are about and what your activity there consists of?
Nobody was given to me by Nobody before she ended her term - it's a strictly photography main gallery group dedicated to horror and gore, and anything gothic in nature that would fit with the title. The direction I would like to take with it is weekly challenges and more activity with the members, but I hadn't had any time until recently to do so. There are assistance positions open for it. So essentially, Nobody was Tanya's group before hand, I just took the reins, but it amazes me some of the art that comes through there.
Nobody was made because I was tired of all the 'normal' 100 theme challenges and wanted to see people create something spooky. I've done no projects with this group because it's a project unto itself, really. I hope it goes according to plan in the future, just as it is now. Nobody is all medium, as well.
Nobody is a photography only dusk to dawn group. I know there are a TON of them out there, but this one has the best name ever. It was one of my very first accounts - almost 8 years old by now I believe, and when groups came out, I figured that it was right at home. It also has no projects, it's just a showcase for beautiful nature photography, which I have a soft spot for, because it's what I've always wanted to do but lack the expertise.
Nobody is a horror literature group; it's quite inactive, sadly, due to time constraints, but it's part of my love of literature in general, and seeing as it's horror, it was the best place for me to begin (hopefully soon) working alongside Nobody to create a truly macabre romp in to the written world of horror.
Kay’s groups
You are also in the admin team in Nobody, Nobody, Nobody and Nobody. What are your responsibilities there?
Nobody, as of right now, I am still fairly a new member - I'm not sure what I am supposed to do but I do know I can accept or decline and invite people. Boring story there, I know. The same goes for Nobody, which is a fantastic group, but my activities there are fairly low key, Nobody does most of the work, and it's a quiet, small group. Easy to manage and assist with. I spend more time submitting there then working there.
Nobody, about the same. I accept, decline, vote on polls and wait for Tanya [Nobody] to come up with her delicious ideas for contests and activities, then I assist in as many ways as she needs me to. It is also fairly low key.
I have more responsibility in Nobody than any other group I am in, save for Nobody. I am the head photography staff there for horror/macabre. I accept, decline, write blogs, polls, and welcome people, as well as assist in the contests. It's a very active group, everybody there is so nice and tuned in with each other, and I get to see a lot of wonderful work.
It's run by Nobody, and he's collected a multitude of fantastic folks to head off various corners of the group, from traditional to sculpture to photography to literature. It's incredibly active; daily polls, journals and they welcome everybody to the group, affiliates and members alike. It's objective is to showcase dark art/artists around dA - you must read the rules before joining though, they do have a set way of going about their duties. They are constantly running contests and they seek to improve for their members daily. Plus, their main page is extraordinary.
Besides being so active in the field of horror photography, you also show a pointed interest in literature. How did you become interested in it? How did you find it in dA and how did you get involved with the lit community there?
I've always loved to write. I can't remember a time when I didn't try my hand at various forms of poetry and literature, it is a complicated and fantastical realm that is very different than visual work, and far more challenging in some aspects, because instead of being able to see what you're trying to convey, you have to try to describe it to your reader so they can imagine it. It's not all placed out before them like in photography. I found it on dA way back when I first joined - there was anime, winamp themes, and poetry, not in that order, and it was abundant and very popular. It's hard not to get sucked in by it when it was everywhere. Literature at the time was on the top shelf on dA. I did not submit anything though, as I am very self-conscious about my writing. I just enjoyed and let it and the visual art inspire me. As for being involved in the literature community here on dA, sadly, it's very hard to break in to it. Once you're known for something, you accumulate your watch base based on that, and they are a tough crowd! I volunteer my time at Nobody and Nobody, as well as Nobody, and it slacks my thirst for the written word some but I do wish it was more easily accessible to those trying to break in to it. It's tight-knit around here. I produce a weekly writing prompt for Nobody, and I do the Monday edition of Nobody. It isn't much, and I sorely wish I could do more, because there are AMAZING writers around here, and I feel that the written word is slowly going out of style, and should be flaunted as much as possible. It is most assuredly an art form as well.
Literature groups in which Kay is a volunteer
Can you tell me if you've had a favourite prompt or a favourite piece submitted to a prompt in Nobody, something that particularly impressed you? And also if you've had one from the daily literature deviations.
For Nobody, I think my favorite prompt AND piece submitted to it were one and the same. I did a prompt called 'Seeking Solace', and since that is something I trouble with in my own life, it was somewhat close to home. I loved the response I got for that particular one, it seems a lot of people struggle with that particular feeling, and the piece that grabbed me for that was
As for DLD, I see so much that goes through there, but my experiences with the literature within have been so fantastic, I don't know if I could pick an absolute favorite, unless you'd allow me to pick MY daily literature deviation, but that is biased. Recently, I came across one piece as I was forming the article that struck me though, and it was
That was my pick of the day last week, it was beautiful, to me, anyway
A not so popular fact is that you’ve been one of the founders of Nobody together with Nobody. Would you tell me how things worked in the beginning, what your role was and why you decided to leave?
It was a joint idea between myself and Nobody; it started as a small club that quickly progressed in to a group. I'm surprised, actually, that you recalled that I was a part of it, which was somewhat part of the reason I left. There was a LOT of work to be done in that club, and more when it became a group - such a fantastic idea, for those lesser known, to gain exposure through it, and as you can see, it's still around, and as popular as it ever was. It was just myself and Nobody in the beginning - we jointly moderated between both of us the newsletters, submissions and ideas. I wrote informative newsletters for the public (one of which is on the dA welcoming committies front page) and we tried to get other people interested in commenting on peoples work. It faired decently for a while, but when groups came out, it became a huge commitment and I was doing quite a bit of work with no breaks, which was wearing me down because 90% of my online time was spent dealing with the group. I was very much behind the scenes, I'd have to say that 100% of the newer members around the time I left had NO idea I even worked there.
I left due to time constraints, like I said it was very taxing. I have a soft spot in my heart for the group, it became well-known and it's a beautiful thing for artists to have access to a place that cares about the commentary on their work. There were some more personal reasons, which are irrelevant now because I have gone on to do other things I find just as meaningful, and all in all my experience there was excellent. I hope it continues to thrive.
Another way you are helping the community is by giving resourceful critiques. Can you tell me more about what critique means to you? Why, how, how often do you give it?
Critique, to me, means exactly that - constructive and meaningful assistance when requested on a piece of work. I like to receive it if it's actually constructive, and whenever I give critique, I try my hardest to make sure I cover all points of a persons piece with an unbiased eye and I try to give them as much assistance and delicately point out flaws without offending, then offer suggestions as well as resource links if possible so that I cover every base.
I refuse to critique something I do not have a moderate to extreme knowledge of because that is not fair to the person or myself - I'm not out to look like I know everything! I give it because I LOVE to help other people with their work, I think the critique function is brilliant because it passes on your words as well as the work to your watch list, therefore giving it more exposure.
I do it when I see a piece that I enjoy that has the function set, I don't tend to do comment critiques any more unless specifically asked (and I get asked a lot, actually!). As for how, I go by the tips on the side and I judge the piece for its vision, originality, technique and impact as well as adding my own two cents, if applicable.
A few weeks ago you hosted a photography contest called “The Hollywood Carnival” together with Nobody - our GM for the glamour portraits gallery. How did that project come up?
The Hollywood Carnival was really all Emma's idea, she just contacted me to see if I'd like to combine the galleries. It was really unique working together on it, and the outcome was interesting as well. It was just AWESOME to see what old movie stars people came up with to mimic for their final product, and some definitely got through with the real face of Hollywood, and how the people really are there. Backstage, again, it was all Emma. She organized the prizes, and she worked her bum off for it all - I just assisted quietly, and helped to promote as much as I could. Again, I'd do it again in a heart beat.
Also have you thought about what you will do after the end of your term as a GM? What does the future hold for you in artistic terms?
When my term as a GM ends, I will be quite upset. Though I don't speak much, I have genuinely been constantly excited about having the position, the initial feeling hasn't changed, even if I'm terribly quiet in the whole GM scope of things. I might even cry, who knows! Artistically, that means I will have a lot more time though, to work on my own projects. I have been writing a collective of stories to combine in to a book, an autobiography if you will, which I will be able to dedicate more time to finishing (then editing) and I will be able to focus more on learning landscape photography, and going back to school, hopefully. My future is definitely artistic, but what way I go has yet to be determined, there are too many choices!
It's about advice you can give to people who view you as a role model?
I can answer that quite simply.
Do. Not. Give. Up. Don't listen to what people say when they tell you you're doing something wrong because it might happen, there is always somebody like that out there - and utilize your resources. There is a plethora of information to be had not only on dA, but on the internet in general. But most of all - do not be afraid to break in to the darker field. It's just as viable and just as rewarding as any other.
Thank you so much, Kay!
I hope you've enjoyed this interview as much as I did. Now go to Kay's page and give her some love IMMEDIATELY!
My name is Kay, I'm 30 (I mean 29 forever). I live in Northern Alberta, Canada. My occupation is a stay at home Mom (most rewarding job I've ever had).I found dA about 7 or 8 years ago on the recommendation of a friend. I was exploring the art world online, as I had been strictly paper/pencil before hand, as well as just writing by hand in a notebook when I wrote. I found a LOT of anime, and was currently obsessed - I signed up under a name I don't even remember now *chuckle* and made a few accounts until 2 years ago when I decided on Nobody. The atmosphere, the people, the continous flow of information and the general communal scope was impressive, so I stuck around.
My current position is the Horror/Macabre Photography volunteer gallery moderator, which means that I handle every spooky, gory, gruesome and terrifying photograph that comes through my inbox and through browsing. I feature DD's and generally try to promote as much as I can for the genre, which is often misunderstood.
“it appealed and appeals to me because the community for dark artists is so NICE!”
How did you first encounter horror photography and why did it appeal to you?dA has always been a fantastic resource for blood and guts. Encountering it was inevitable, but my first big leap in to it was when my daughter came to me and asked me to make her scary. So I researched using children in horror and macabre related work, using dA as a stepping stone, and I was surprised how often it came up. It appealed to me because it was outside my normal scope (I was primarily a cat photographer, in the learning process if you will so I used my pets) and once I was challenged on my ideals and morality, of course I wasn't going to stop. Not to mention, it appealed and appeals to me because the community for dark artists is so NICE! You'd be shocked, I'm sure. And I love horror movies, B-Grade, as well as anything shlocky and awful. A few of Kay’s horror photographs
How long have you been into horror photography before you decided to volunteer and what or who encouraged you to? March 2011 will signify 2 years in specifically horror/macabre photography for me, so I started in March 2010 and that would have been about 8 months before my volunteer position, my daughter was my test subject and then I worked on a big set that allowed me to create props and work with my hands, so I was hooked. I did not decide to volunteer, actually, I was recommended to Nobody - And when I got the offer, I couldn't turn it down. Nobody was my encouragement in the decision, without her I would have never continued down that path. “the biggest role I could possibly play is the one of a helper.”
Tell me about your experience as a GM - how was it for you in the beginning, how have you interacted with others GMs and the community and what is involved in the position? At the beginning, it was a daunting experience. I was completely lost and very nervous - I still am, actually. I'm incredibly shy, it doesn't help me at all in situations like this, being a voice for such a large community. On that note, being so shy hasn't made it easy to interact with the other GM's, I'm afraid I'm somewhat of a low lying entity, I keep to myself and try not to stir the water.Though I volunteer at many of the community relations groups, I tend to be very undercover. Those GM's that I HAVE interacted with, it's been just like talking to anybody else. A few of us have teamed up for contests and challenges, and I know a few things are in the works regarding something like that again.
As for what I do with my position, I am required to mingle with the community as the voice for the gallery I represent. I feature daily deviations, I promote everything that is sent to me in whatever way I can, I make sure that I am an outlet for the darker artists, somebody they can come to and chat with, or suggest to, or ask for help. I'm always trying to help as much as I can, and I feel that while I am a moderator of a smaller gallery, the biggest role I could possibly play is the one of a helper. It's not about me, it's about THEM and YOU, as a whole. The entire community.
Spooky Daily Deviation Round Ups – collections of DDs featured by Kay
A few of the daily deviations featured by Nobody
On the questions of daily deviations, many people are unaware about how they are chosen and what happens behind the scenes. So I’d like to ask you to tell me more about the backstage work involved in featuring them - how you choose them, what criteria you have, how many suggestions you receive, if you have regular suggestors, how you react when people disapprove of a feature, if people often come to thank you and what the whole experience is like for you? Daily Deviations are one of the biggest perks about being a GM. Not only do I get to feature something outstanding I find myself, but I get a LOT more suggestions then I thought I would when I started. Being a fairly small circle of folks, the darker community sends me so many I actually have a hard time keeping track of them, which doesn't reflect so well on me, but I have had a hard time gaining my footing when it comes to the notes and the suggestions. I'm only human though. Behind the scenes, it's actually quite tough. I'm sure some would dispute this, but when I have an influx of what seems like a lot to me, it gets overwhelming. I've got nothing but respect for the GM's of the bigger galleries, I can't even imagine...
When I choose a DD, I specifically look for the size of the photograph and if it's clear, it doesn't have to be 'unique', because the genre IS NOT unique - there are a few that are simply out of this world and different, but the majority are about what you'd expect, which makes them no less great if they are properly taken. I look for under exposed suggestions too, because I love to get a name out there if I can. If it comes to me and has 1,200 favorites, chances are I won't feature it because I can't do any more for it than they already did.
I have a circle of people who suggest on a regular basis to me, so I have to space them out accordingly but I don't generally prefer one person over the other, that wouldn't be fair. I get very excited when I see somebody self promoting as well! It takes guts to do that! Especially in the genre they are promoting in, as it's a scary place, like artistic nude - people come to a lot of conclusions they shouldn't about the people who make the art.
When people disapprove of a feature, I honestly hope that they will come to me instead of leaving nasty comments on the piece. The deviant who receives the DD doesn't normally ask for it, it's not their fault - I react accordingly, most of the time not at all, but usually with a link to the FAQ on how a DD is chosen, who chooses it, and why. More people should brush up on that, it's not fair to be nasty when there is no reason to me. Mature content filter is there for a reason, and people don't have to look.
People do not actually thank me on a regular basis. It's nice when they do, but I am not doing this for myself. I am doing it for the community! When I get thanked, I feel warm and glowy, and I genuinely hope I've made somebody’s day, but it's not mandatory - more often than not it doesn't happen at all.
The A,B,C’s of Horror – a weekly horror feature by Nobody
You are currently issuing a regular horror photography art feature called “The A,B,C’s of Horror”. How did you come up with it? How do you find the pieces you feature? What response have you got for it? Honestly, how I came up with it is NOT very exciting. I wanted to do something that spanned a few weeks, promoting horror photography, and as I was grabbing a soda one day, I saw the alphabet magnets on the fridge and thought, 'Hey...you know...I bet I could make that work out.' And so I did. As for finding the pieces, what I do is I take the words I come up with, or that are suggested, I go to browse, then go to Photography, Horror/Macabre, and I type them in - then I scroll through and see what comes up. I don't have an extensive search for them at all, I pick the first 3 to 6 that I see that are appropriate and I go with that.
The response has been amazing! Well, as amazing as 25 regular 'loves' on the news articles a week has been, anyway. But that's a lot to me! It means 25 people saw and looked. And ever since I've opened it up to word suggestions, I get lots of notes with these really interesting and random words according to letter, some even come with descriptions and I find that entertaining because I get to learn something too.
” so I felt it was time to bring to light the softer side of these people.”
You’re also conducting a series of interviews called “The Horror Scope”. Can you tell us a bit more about it? The Horror Scope was designed to bring to light darker artists in another setting, something more mundane and normal, so to speak. I ask them about their darker work, how they feel about dA's dark community, and then I try to ask them some simpler questions...about life, or puppies, or something else small and cute so that people who read it can see that they are JUST LIKE everyone else in essence. It came about because I am so tired of being judged myself, and I am so sad when I see people I give features to getting their work completely trashed by somebody who has NO idea why the work was made, who the person is, and they don't even take the time to get to know the person before they judge them.This happens in every genre, but I only specifically work in one, so I felt it was time to bring to light the softer side of these people. The idea FINALLY came to fruition when I got harshly criticized and told I was going to Hell because I have used my daughter for despairing photography. I can only imagine what others go through as well. Nobody stopped to think that maybe my daughter came to ME with the idea, nobody stopped to ask whether or not there were alterior motives - they just judged and it was unfair. As for the questions, I try to find out about the people I interview, it's only in it's second issue so far, but I try to gather tidbits about them, then form my questions according to their galleries and I like to get a bit of cute real life information in there too, so I randomly select whatever comes to my mind first for that question. The response has been quite vast, I have at least 13 weeks of interviews with 2 on the market already...And I wish I had more.
The Horror Scope – a series of interviews by Nobody
You are a founding figure of the following groups: Nobody, Nobody, Nobody and Nobody. Can you briefly describe what those groups are about and what your activity there consists of? Nobody was given to me by Nobody before she ended her term - it's a strictly photography main gallery group dedicated to horror and gore, and anything gothic in nature that would fit with the title. The direction I would like to take with it is weekly challenges and more activity with the members, but I hadn't had any time until recently to do so. There are assistance positions open for it. So essentially, Nobody was Tanya's group before hand, I just took the reins, but it amazes me some of the art that comes through there.Nobody was made because I was tired of all the 'normal' 100 theme challenges and wanted to see people create something spooky. I've done no projects with this group because it's a project unto itself, really. I hope it goes according to plan in the future, just as it is now. Nobody is all medium, as well.
Nobody is a photography only dusk to dawn group. I know there are a TON of them out there, but this one has the best name ever. It was one of my very first accounts - almost 8 years old by now I believe, and when groups came out, I figured that it was right at home. It also has no projects, it's just a showcase for beautiful nature photography, which I have a soft spot for, because it's what I've always wanted to do but lack the expertise.
Nobody is a horror literature group; it's quite inactive, sadly, due to time constraints, but it's part of my love of literature in general, and seeing as it's horror, it was the best place for me to begin (hopefully soon) working alongside Nobody to create a truly macabre romp in to the written world of horror.
Kay’s groups
You are also in the admin team in Nobody, Nobody, Nobody and Nobody. What are your responsibilities there? Nobody, as of right now, I am still fairly a new member - I'm not sure what I am supposed to do but I do know I can accept or decline and invite people. Boring story there, I know. The same goes for Nobody, which is a fantastic group, but my activities there are fairly low key, Nobody does most of the work, and it's a quiet, small group. Easy to manage and assist with. I spend more time submitting there then working there.Nobody, about the same. I accept, decline, vote on polls and wait for Tanya [Nobody] to come up with her delicious ideas for contests and activities, then I assist in as many ways as she needs me to. It is also fairly low key.
I have more responsibility in Nobody than any other group I am in, save for Nobody. I am the head photography staff there for horror/macabre. I accept, decline, write blogs, polls, and welcome people, as well as assist in the contests. It's a very active group, everybody there is so nice and tuned in with each other, and I get to see a lot of wonderful work.
It's run by Nobody, and he's collected a multitude of fantastic folks to head off various corners of the group, from traditional to sculpture to photography to literature. It's incredibly active; daily polls, journals and they welcome everybody to the group, affiliates and members alike. It's objective is to showcase dark art/artists around dA - you must read the rules before joining though, they do have a set way of going about their duties. They are constantly running contests and they seek to improve for their members daily. Plus, their main page is extraordinary.
”Literature at the time was on the top shelf on dA.”
Besides being so active in the field of horror photography, you also show a pointed interest in literature. How did you become interested in it? How did you find it in dA and how did you get involved with the lit community there? I've always loved to write. I can't remember a time when I didn't try my hand at various forms of poetry and literature, it is a complicated and fantastical realm that is very different than visual work, and far more challenging in some aspects, because instead of being able to see what you're trying to convey, you have to try to describe it to your reader so they can imagine it. It's not all placed out before them like in photography. I found it on dA way back when I first joined - there was anime, winamp themes, and poetry, not in that order, and it was abundant and very popular. It's hard not to get sucked in by it when it was everywhere. Literature at the time was on the top shelf on dA. I did not submit anything though, as I am very self-conscious about my writing. I just enjoyed and let it and the visual art inspire me. As for being involved in the literature community here on dA, sadly, it's very hard to break in to it. Once you're known for something, you accumulate your watch base based on that, and they are a tough crowd! I volunteer my time at Nobody and Nobody, as well as Nobody, and it slacks my thirst for the written word some but I do wish it was more easily accessible to those trying to break in to it. It's tight-knit around here. I produce a weekly writing prompt for Nobody, and I do the Monday edition of Nobody. It isn't much, and I sorely wish I could do more, because there are AMAZING writers around here, and I feel that the written word is slowly going out of style, and should be flaunted as much as possible. It is most assuredly an art form as well. Literature groups in which Kay is a volunteer
Live-Love-Write writing prompts done by Nobody
Can you tell me if you've had a favourite prompt or a favourite piece submitted to a prompt in Nobody, something that particularly impressed you? And also if you've had one from the daily literature deviations. For Nobody, I think my favorite prompt AND piece submitted to it were one and the same. I did a prompt called 'Seeking Solace', and since that is something I trouble with in my own life, it was somewhat close to home. I loved the response I got for that particular one, it seems a lot of people struggle with that particular feeling, and the piece that grabbed me for that was As for DLD, I see so much that goes through there, but my experiences with the literature within have been so fantastic, I don't know if I could pick an absolute favorite, unless you'd allow me to pick MY daily literature deviation, but that is biased. Recently, I came across one piece as I was forming the article that struck me though, and it was
That was my pick of the day last week, it was beautiful, to me, anyway
A Simple Guide to Writing Horror by Nobody
A not so popular fact is that you’ve been one of the founders of Nobody together with Nobody. Would you tell me how things worked in the beginning, what your role was and why you decided to leave? It was a joint idea between myself and Nobody; it started as a small club that quickly progressed in to a group. I'm surprised, actually, that you recalled that I was a part of it, which was somewhat part of the reason I left. There was a LOT of work to be done in that club, and more when it became a group - such a fantastic idea, for those lesser known, to gain exposure through it, and as you can see, it's still around, and as popular as it ever was. It was just myself and Nobody in the beginning - we jointly moderated between both of us the newsletters, submissions and ideas. I wrote informative newsletters for the public (one of which is on the dA welcoming committies front page) and we tried to get other people interested in commenting on peoples work. It faired decently for a while, but when groups came out, it became a huge commitment and I was doing quite a bit of work with no breaks, which was wearing me down because 90% of my online time was spent dealing with the group. I was very much behind the scenes, I'd have to say that 100% of the newer members around the time I left had NO idea I even worked there.I left due to time constraints, like I said it was very taxing. I have a soft spot in my heart for the group, it became well-known and it's a beautiful thing for artists to have access to a place that cares about the commentary on their work. There were some more personal reasons, which are irrelevant now because I have gone on to do other things I find just as meaningful, and all in all my experience there was excellent. I hope it continues to thrive.
”I give it because I LOVE to help other people with their work”
Another way you are helping the community is by giving resourceful critiques. Can you tell me more about what critique means to you? Why, how, how often do you give it? Critique, to me, means exactly that - constructive and meaningful assistance when requested on a piece of work. I like to receive it if it's actually constructive, and whenever I give critique, I try my hardest to make sure I cover all points of a persons piece with an unbiased eye and I try to give them as much assistance and delicately point out flaws without offending, then offer suggestions as well as resource links if possible so that I cover every base. I refuse to critique something I do not have a moderate to extreme knowledge of because that is not fair to the person or myself - I'm not out to look like I know everything! I give it because I LOVE to help other people with their work, I think the critique function is brilliant because it passes on your words as well as the work to your watch list, therefore giving it more exposure.
I do it when I see a piece that I enjoy that has the function set, I don't tend to do comment critiques any more unless specifically asked (and I get asked a lot, actually!). As for how, I go by the tips on the side and I judge the piece for its vision, originality, technique and impact as well as adding my own two cents, if applicable.
Critiques given by Nobody
A few weeks ago you hosted a photography contest called “The Hollywood Carnival” together with Nobody - our GM for the glamour portraits gallery. How did that project come up? The Hollywood Carnival was really all Emma's idea, she just contacted me to see if I'd like to combine the galleries. It was really unique working together on it, and the outcome was interesting as well. It was just AWESOME to see what old movie stars people came up with to mimic for their final product, and some definitely got through with the real face of Hollywood, and how the people really are there. Backstage, again, it was all Emma. She organized the prizes, and she worked her bum off for it all - I just assisted quietly, and helped to promote as much as I could. Again, I'd do it again in a heart beat. ”I have genuinely been constantly excited about having the position”
Also have you thought about what you will do after the end of your term as a GM? What does the future hold for you in artistic terms? When my term as a GM ends, I will be quite upset. Though I don't speak much, I have genuinely been constantly excited about having the position, the initial feeling hasn't changed, even if I'm terribly quiet in the whole GM scope of things. I might even cry, who knows! Artistically, that means I will have a lot more time though, to work on my own projects. I have been writing a collective of stories to combine in to a book, an autobiography if you will, which I will be able to dedicate more time to finishing (then editing) and I will be able to focus more on learning landscape photography, and going back to school, hopefully. My future is definitely artistic, but what way I go has yet to be determined, there are too many choices! It's about advice you can give to people who view you as a role model? I can answer that quite simply.Do. Not. Give. Up. Don't listen to what people say when they tell you you're doing something wrong because it might happen, there is always somebody like that out there - and utilize your resources. There is a plethora of information to be had not only on dA, but on the internet in general. But most of all - do not be afraid to break in to the darker field. It's just as viable and just as rewarding as any other.
Thank you so much, Kay!
I hope you've enjoyed this interview as much as I did. Now go to Kay's page and give her some love IMMEDIATELY!
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dAlicious Winners #1
6 min read
this article to help give more exposure to these talented artists. From the series:
dAlicious Titbits #1
dAlicious Contests #1dAlicious Titbits #2dAlicious Contests #2dAlicious Titbits #3dAlicious Contests #3If you wish to advertise anything, it can be included in the dAlicious Titbits news series. Note me with links!
About dAlicious Winners
DAlicious Winners is a regular feature of the winners in various contests around deviantArt. Its aim is to promote the winning pieces and give credit to the winners for their work and dedication in the competitions.
How to get featured
If you wish to have a news feature for the winners of your contest, don't hesitate to send me a note with "Winners" as the subject line (for organizational purposes). Inside the note please fill in the following form:
[Name of the contest + link to the opening article] was launched by [host] on [opening date]. It included [media allowed] and received [number of entries + link to the collection] entries. It closed on [closing date] and the winners were announced on [announcement date].
Include a link to the blog/article where the winners are announced.
This issue will feature the winners of five contests of different media, which have recently been closed.
What's Summer to You Contest
Never Judge A Book By Its Cover Contest
I love... Stamp Contest
FANTASY WORLD contest
Marine Mammal Photography Contest
What's Summer to You Contest was launched by Nobody on July 15th. It included all visual media and received 134 entries. It closed on 31st of August 2010 and the winners were announced on September 2nd. Here they are:
First Place Winner
by Nobody
Second Place Winner
by Nobody
Third Place Winner
by Nobody
Honourable Mentions
Never Judge A Book By Its Cover Contest was launched by Nobody and included prose entries. It received 31 entries. It closed on 4th August 2010 and the winners were announced on Aug 25, 2010. Here they are:
First Place Winner
by Nobody
Second Place Winner
by Nobody
Third Place Winner
by Nobody
Honourable Mentions
I love... Stamp Contest was launched by Nobody and called for stamp entries. It received 16 entries. It closed on Sep 1, 2010 and the winners were announced on Sep 3, 2010. Here they are:
First Place Winner
by Nobody
Second Place Winner
by Nobody
Third Place Winner
by Nobody and by Nobody
Honourable Mentions
FANTASY WORLD contest was launched by Nobody and called for digital and traditional art entries. It received 105 entries. It closed on 31 August and the winners were announced on September 5. Here they are:
First Place Winner
by Nobody
Second Place Winner
by Nobody
Third Place Winner
by Nobody
Marine Mammal Photography Contest was launched by Nobody and called for photography entries. It received 126 entries in two categories: Captive and Wild marine mammals. It closed on Sep 1, 2010 and the winners were announced on Sep 11, 2010. Here they are:
First Place Winners
Wild by Nobody and Captive by Nobody
Second Place Winner
Wild by Nobody and Captive: Nobody
Best Mysticete:
by Nobody
Best Odontocete:
by Nobody
Best Pinniped:
by Nobody
Best 'Other' (Manatee, dugong, polar bear, sea otter)
by Nobody
Judge's Favourites:
Congratulations to all the winners!
[Name of the contest + link to the opening article] was launched by [host] on [opening date]. It included [media allowed] and received [number of entries + link to the collection] entries. It closed on [closing date] and the winners were announced on [announcement date].
Include a link to the blog/article where the winners are announced.
Content
This issue will feature the winners of five contests of different media, which have recently been closed.
What's Summer to You Contest Never Judge A Book By Its Cover Contest I love... Stamp Contest FANTASY WORLD contest Marine Mammal Photography Contest What's Summer to You Contest
What's Summer to You Contest was launched by Nobody on July 15th. It included all visual media and received 134 entries. It closed on 31st of August 2010 and the winners were announced on September 2nd. Here they are:
First Place Winner by Nobody
Second Place Winner by Nobody
Third Place Winner by Nobody
Honourable Mentions Never Judge A Book By Its Cover Contest
Never Judge A Book By Its Cover Contest was launched by Nobody and included prose entries. It received 31 entries. It closed on 4th August 2010 and the winners were announced on Aug 25, 2010. Here they are:
First Place Winner by Nobody
Second Place Winner by Nobody
Third Place Winner by Nobody
Honourable Mentions I love... Stamp Contest
I love... Stamp Contest was launched by Nobody and called for stamp entries. It received 16 entries. It closed on Sep 1, 2010 and the winners were announced on Sep 3, 2010. Here they are:
First Place Winner by Nobody
Second Place Winner by Nobody
Third Place Winner by Nobody and by Nobody
Honourable Mentions FANTASY WORLD contest
FANTASY WORLD contest was launched by Nobody and called for digital and traditional art entries. It received 105 entries. It closed on 31 August and the winners were announced on September 5. Here they are:
First Place Winner by Nobody
Second Place Winner by Nobody
Third Place Winner by Nobody
Marine Mammal Photography Contest
Marine Mammal Photography Contest was launched by Nobody and called for photography entries. It received 126 entries in two categories: Captive and Wild marine mammals. It closed on Sep 1, 2010 and the winners were announced on Sep 11, 2010. Here they are:
First Place Winners Wild by Nobody and Captive by Nobody
Second Place Winner Wild by Nobody and Captive: Nobody
Best Mysticete:by Nobody
Best Odontocete:by Nobody
Best Pinniped: by Nobody
Best 'Other' (Manatee, dugong, polar bear, sea otter) by Nobody
Judge's Favourites:Congratulations to all the winners!
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