Before I begin, I would like to point out that these are my own opinions, and are not necessarily true. I cannot control what deviant’s do with the tools they are given, and I do not intend to try. I simply wish to speak my mind to the deviantART world.

Many Deviants complain constantly about the lack of comments they receive from those who visit their pages, and rightly so. As of late, there are many people who are getting more and more watchers, yet their average number of comments seems to remain the same. Most people watch others because they have an interest in the artist. It may be the style, nature of the picture, details, etc. that draw in watchers.

Below each Deviations, there is a comments box. Recently, many people who watch others do not leave a message. If you enjoy the person’s piece of art, it is respectful to leave a comment telling what you did or didn’t like, and maybe even some friendly suggestions. It is not just beneficial to the deviant, but also to yourself. If you let your voice be heard about what you like in what you see, the artist will incorporate that comment into future works. In time, you see more of what you like.

In turn, leaving comments such as “This suck0rz, g3t 0ff mai screen,” can be hurtful. Also, you don’t even explain why it is that you find the piece horrid. Part of deviantART is to help improve artist’s skills in a friendly community. I have not personally received comments such as these, but I have seen others who have, and they tend to be hurt by it. Don’t hate a picture, look as it as a chance to help the artist. It may take some time, but the artist will be thankful, and hopefully their art will improve in time. A small comment can do a little, and likewise, a big comment can go even farther.

Personal messages can sometimes clutter up space for art comments. Things such as “Call me” or “Are we still going to the mall today?” can fill a page quickly, which stalls away from the true purpose of the comments. There is indeed a note feature, which would keep messages personal, and can be deleted when finished with. Also, they are easier to manage, especially with more popular deviants. They are very simple to use; simply visit the deviant’s homepage, and click the “Send Note” button on the right-hand side. The fields for name and such will be instantly be filled, and you only have to send the message. Another option for talking is Instant Messaging. DeviantART allows users to display their AIM, Yahoo, MSN, Skype, ICQ, and Email addresses. They can be found in the Devious Information of the deviant’s page, if he or she chooses to display it. These services are free, and are a simple and secure download. Many schools use a messenger, meaning you could chat with real friends, as well as online ones!

In closing, the true purposes of the services on deviantART seem to be slipping. While you do not have to be incredibly secure about things, it’s important to remember why deviantART is here, and use the services it presents meaningfully.