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Something I think about on the notion of gift art.
8 years ago
So what are the rules on doing gift art? Cause I'm never sure exactly how to go about interacting with other people or worse artists who make work I like. I always feel like fan-art is a form of gift art for fellow fans of whatever but that's usually on a much larger scale. Following that up, is there a line in which making gift art feels less like your genuinely gifting someone and more just pandering to an artist for attention and with some vein hope of an audience as well? (I only wonder this because sometimes I see comments like "<artist> only got an audience because they kissed <bigger artist>'s ass with gift art and people started following them") It gives me a fear of drawing gift art because I've been told by some it's just a sleazy business tactic used by assholes in order to bring attention to their work, rather than being a genuine gift, but even if that was a portion of the intention with the art is that bad or is it just a neutral? I kind of feel they wouldn't have drawn it without a genuine interest in the person's art. I always wonder these things when it comes to idea of art trades and collabs that if it's as good thing or just an underhand business tactic to bring attention to one's own work. :|
As for giving gift art, I usually do it for my close friends, but occasionally if someone has a really neat character I want to try, I might do it.
As for feeling like seeking attention, only a small handful of people ever interact with me at any given time, regardless of what I do, so I may as well not worry about it, and just have fun.
Only you know the true reason for why your giving a gift and if you know its for altruistic reasons then you will also know that people who say you did it for selfish reasons are not telling the truth.
Unless a person is extremely paranoid, they are likely to be happy to get a gift. Weather or not the artist reciprocates with promotion or a simple thank you is entirely up to the receiver. With that said you should not feel bad about getting promotion for your efforts as it may be the artist's way of showing appreciation for your gift and you never forced him/her to do so.
Personally I see gift art as just that, a gift. If you like someone's art or character, and you can draw, then gift art is an awesome way to show that. But you have to make sure it is alright with the owner/artist. Most people are happy to receive gift art.If you mean well any artist should appreciate the work!