It's a Group Thing

Deviant has a lot of really great groups. It also has a lot of really not-so-great groups. A good group depends on the staff you put together to keep it running, and on the members who join and participate. A group with a great staff but no participating members is no fun. And a group with a thousand active members but no staff to keep up folders, weed out crap, organize, feature, and keep the peace is just utter chaos.

I thinned out my own groups list today, and I got a bunch of people asking why I left, what they could do better, etc. The truth was, for the majority of those, I left simply because I lack the time/desire to participate. That means I'm not holding up my end of the bargain as a member. I'm doing that group no favors by being a silent non-participant. So I choose to remove myself from those groups, and focus my energies on just a few where I can find the time and energy to be active and contribute.

So this week, I'm not just featuring artwork. I'm featuring groups. A few that I feel are working well and are a pleasure to be a part of. Check them out, and see if you fit in with them.





I love this group! Quality artwork, well-organized galleries, swift approvals and courteous admins - this group has consistently been my second go-to when I'm in a grouping sort of mood. And a stroll through their galleries reveals some amazing talent.



This group has a way of really making you feel welcome. And if you've been around here a while, there are a lot of familiar faces on the stafflist. They know how to keep things fun and interesting!



Another great place to showcase your talent, and collect the art of others. LaraBLN and her crew also work hard to really showcase their artists, which is important.



Everyone's favorite SabakuNoShi heads up this fun group. I've loved being a member here. It runs smoothly, and if you have questions, there's always an answer forthcoming.


And finally:


When it comes to art that really makes you think, this is the place. I don't contribute to this one often, simply because... well, I'm not thought-provoking enough! But I go here for inspiration, and to be stretched. And it pushes me to try things, in hopes I'll end up with something that fits.


I know this is a bit of a different feature this week. But groups are under-appreciated I think. The really great ones are. And these are just a handful.

I hope you enjoy some of the work found there.

Ange