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Support artists against AI
I don't know if you've heard, but being an artist on the internet is weirder now than ever. There's the constant fight with algorithms, keeping up with a schedule to stay relevant and now AI. With recent integrations of AI in both social media and artist software, we are now facing sites that have been scraping its images on its apps (and I mean ALL images which includes personal photos you may have posted, not just art) to feed its AI beast. I am so conflicted because I have always been an advocate for AI. I think in many ways it is an amazing tool. It has so much potential to help increase the efficiency of our lives so that, in theory, we can spend more time doing things that lean more into our humanity. But in many ways, that isn’t the case. On top of that, AI is having real impacts on people's livelihoods.
As far as I’m concerned, I don't plan to leave these apps just yet but this has forced me to rethink how to utilize certain social media, once again. Created for artists by artists, Cara is a great social media alternative and I implore you to at least take a look and possibly join too. Although it's still in its infant stages, you'll find that many artists who are in support of non-AI art are making the jump, me included. So, if things keep up this way, Cara may be the place where I will post more original/non-commercialized art. It's the first of its kind (that I know of) that protects your posts from AI through glazing and you can scroll through without all the ads. I posted links to my Cara profile down below.
Link to Cara: https://cara.app/runawaygoldfish
I have my dark thoughts on the subject but I feel the only way through this is by remaining humble and optimistic. I strongly believe that as long as humans exist, people will continue to desire human made things despite AI. I also believe in the human ability of adaptation. In fact, in many ways, I think people are craving raw human connection now more than ever.
Fitness Dragon: Staying active as an artist and facing hardships
Recently, I've taken up a new accessible way to stay active while still practicing the mindfulness and meditation that I would usually get from activities like hiking. I've seen it go by many names like Fitness Dragon, Dragon Dreaming, Dragon Streaming, etc. It seems like no one can really decide on its name. I personally have been calling it Dragon Spinning and originally started as an activity for older folks in China and has been growing in popularity in the flow arts community.
At the beginning of the year, I talked about entering the year of the dragon (symbolizing good fortune and strength) and what it meant to me. What life has taught me, so far, is that one impacts the other; good fortune comes with strength and strength is gained by pushing through adversity. I love being outside and love moving my body but one thing I really struggle with is weaponizing my need for a stimulating, enjoyable experience. It’s a huge reason why I hate going to the gym. My mind can’t get over how much it feels like a hamster wheel to me. But I also understand that moving my body positively impacts my health which in turn positively impacts my art.
In so many ways, I believe it serendipitous that I was introduced to this sport but my favorite thing about it is the metaphor of the technique. As a beginner, you feel inclined to pull down the dragon in an x formation but the most optimal way to keep the dragon in the air is to do the opposite; you want to lift up the dragon. And in order to keep it in the air, you have to build that strength and endurance. Who would’ve thought that I would be dealing with dragons both literally and figuratively?
If you want to follow my fitness dragon journey or maybe want to purchase one of your own, feel free to visit ig.com/goldfishdreams and save on your next purchase!
Artists Vs. Markets
The past couple months I've been attending more markets than I have in the past (which is freaking awesome). But after having accumulated a few years of experience I find myself no longer grasping at just any market opportunity I can get. Instead, I've been a lot more selective and in some cases turning certain ones down. With prices rising everywhere, vendor fees are no exceptions. Unfortunately, this has been my biggest deterrent. For some markets, I can see how it could cost so much but there are some instances where it doesn't make sense from a vendors point of view especially when markets require you to fulfill needs beyond just setting up.
MY LATEST TWEET:
Lately it has felt as though a lot of these venues take advantage of the vendor who is looking to earn money while minimizing any support or advocating for the vendor. Its frustrating because I want to assume good intent but many of these events feel exploitive. Nowadays I have to make a point to find markets that are very clear in their values because the vendor fee now feels like an investment to whoever is running the event. Luckily, the past few shows I've done, I had such a good vending experience that it set the bar for me and I only hope that any markets that I go to are the same experience.
Most of my products are sold in person but I'm hoping to change that soon. If you haven't had the chance to catch me in person, save 10% at The Fishbowl Market webstore! Use code: THTBBL24 at checkout!
FIND ME ON TIKTOK!
Here's my latest post:
Summertime Hiking!
It's been a busy summer and it's going by incredibly fast. In the few moments I have, do try my best to get outside and enjoy the sun. I hope this can encourage you to do the same. Just be sure to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen!
August Livestream coming soon!
I've been taking it easy for the month of July to take a break from my May and June streaming marathons. In that time, I've been focusing on different parts of my business and hoping to release some products based on my work from Mermay soon! If you do want to catch stream, tune in Wednesday, August 14, 2024 from 3PM to 7PM.
Follow me on Twitch! Twitch.tv/goldfishglub
Pride Pop-Ups and Reflections
I find it funny that when I posted this, I had no idea that i would be doing two more markets in July but for the most part, Pride month was a success market wise. Weirdly enough Pride markets are also where I experience the most anxiety. To be out and proud definitely comes from a place of privilege and despite people claiming safe spaces, not all LGBTQ spaces are created equal. We are not a monolith and unfortunately I still have had experiences that have left deep cuts in me. Luckily, it wasn't at any of these past markets but those feelings can be hard to let go of. For anyone who needs to hear this, you don't owe anyone masculinity, femininity or even androgyny to feel valid in your identity.
CHECK OUT MY INSTAGRAM!
Here is my most recent post:
new pilot episode is out and i'm the creative director?!
If you've been keeping up with these blog posts or have been following me for awhile, you'll know that I've been working with Austin Ford of @gfy95 (IG down below). Together so far, we've made two children's books, apparel and we have another project in the works. But as I'm working on that project, Austin commissioned some amazing artists to animate the first children's book we worked on, Gee's Way or The Freeway, where I am listed as the creative director. I can't tell you how excited and happy this made me so I Hope you enjoy this video as much as we both did.
Lastly, my project with @Gfy95 is still in session so Be sure to follow his Instagram to stay up to date!
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