"Art Should Be Free"

As long as there have been people who make things of value, there have been attempts to get the things they make at a discount or worse. People try to rip each other off all the time, but there are a lot of stigmas surrounding art, the value provided, and whether or not artists should be paid. So I wanted to take time to tackle some of the myths, but also help you to be wary of similar situations.
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[@guitarwizard85]

"Please draw me something for free" "No. I don't draw things for free" "B-but I have cancer, depression and pstd, my house is on fire, great grandfather is dying and my foot's asleep"

[@mslightbulb]

NightmareWhimzy “then honey, instead of asking for art you should go see the doctor”.

[@conradogaldo3832]

r/choosinbeggars

[@seanarthur8392]

Bring your good foot to my house and fix the roof on my studio, it started leaking this spring! I'll trade you a drawing.

[@jakkdlaw]

This person needs Jesus.

[@sadfish9037]

"my foot‘s asleep"

[@ChampiVenao]

Basically art is a luxury and you are not paying for just a drawing, you are paying for my service and time.

[@RadiantBleu]

My father says that and I always want to throw something at him

[@seanarthur8392]

Man does not live on bread alone. Your father is, I am afraid to say, wrong.

[@seanarthur8392]

ART IS NOT A LUXURY. Art is the purpose of our existence. Man cannot live on bread alone. We live for something more, and that 'more' is what Artists of all kinds seek to express. We walked out of the jungle 50,000 years ago because we had something to say and a gift to leave to our descendants.

[@user-je7dk4mq1o]

Yea, my Mom is always Like "its just a drawing on a piece of paper, its Not worth anything" even If i say "i Put effort and time in this etc." This happened today too, some Guy Had destroyed an artwork of Mine that wasnt too bad and i needed 2 and a half hours for, i also Put lots of effort in it, i Said to her that He should actually pay me for it, she comes with the same argument, me too. Even though it isnt that good, i still put my time and effort into that drawing, Just for some guy to destroy it in a few seconds... She comes at me with: "you arent even drawing those for others or selling them, you are drawing them because you want to, so why do you want Money for it?" Its Just so stupid, im still crying and extremely upset though..

[@fandomfan2800]

@@seanarthur8392 so do you not believe in paying artist?

[@lauramaue]

"But you *love* doing this!" Yeah, when I do it for myself. When I do it for you, it's a job. I still like it well enough and will of course strive for quality work in everything I do, but when an artist is working toward your personal vision instead of their own, they'll naturally be less passionate about it than you are. So they (I) will need more incentive to keep going. Gotta pay off the loans somehow.

[@Dekunutcase]

This happens for crafters, too. "I'll pay you for that item! $10 for 4 hours of work and then materials! It's such a good price, right? You love doing it anyway..." This is why I sell digital patterns instead of physical items. At least then, if multiple people buy it, I can maybe make those hours back in minimum wage.

[@lepidlover0557]

People act like because you're passionate about what you do, it automatically should be free. You don't go to a vet and say "well you must be passionate for animals, so can you vaccinate my dog for free" Or to a hair stylist asking for a free cut. "oh, you like doing hair? Well, can you cut mine for free?" People just don't want to pay us, even when they can. Smh. They'll pay $50 to get their nails painted a single color, but don't want to pay $5 for a self portrait or something else artistic. They try to manipulate our feelings so that they can get what they want for free, but yet WE'RE the selfish ones for wanting something in return???

[@anduro7448]

Yes i do , thats why i turned it into my full time job I need to pay those bills , eat that food , and compensate financially for the money that that i spend on the tablet/proffesional art supplies *AT LEAST* (not from an actual full/part/gaining any kind of money from this time artist but i do draw)

[@Tater_Toot]

Not to mention it’s just narcissistic. Most of those “can u draw for free” requests will benefit you in no way but “it’ll make me/my gf/my dog happy”

[@gumgrunt]

@@jzargo9053 Not to mention, most people who do art are probably in debt from art school. Yeah we LOVE art and it's our PASSION, but then again, followjng your passion won't feed you and let you survive in the real world, there's nothing wrong with people making money out of the things they love doing. By this logic of yours, literally anything should be free.

[@Gleamiarts]

Art is a luxury and should be paid for accordingly

[@mattdoesstuff8987]

Preach

[@arcanummysterium487]

True, I dont even use the money on myself I just tell them to send it to my dad's credit card and he gets so confused lmao

[@markguyton2868]

"Art Should Be Free" - Every mega-corporation doing a "fan-art contest" with no reward... ;)

[@mattdoesstuff8987]

The "for exposure" thing is all over the music industry as well. Not only for gigging musicians, but audio engineers as well. It's really unfortunate that people refuse to pay for goods and services.

[@antank5703]

If you can get something for free why pay for it

[@antank5703]

I am an artist as well but at the same time you have to understand what these people are coming

[@WatchReDirect]

I HAVE THE PERFECT IDEA! I can just pay my rent by tweeting about it post-exposure!

[@CharacterDesignForge]

The One Weird Secret Landlords DONT Want You To Know

[@anduro7448]

*H O l Y C R A P T H A T S F O K E N G E N I U S*

[@SparkleP8nter]

FanatixFour yeeees!

[@canislunaticus]

Artists are already underpricing their art enough (Which is so damaging to the rest of the art community). People who ask for free art are greedy af.

[@jzargo9053]

This is some "I know you are but what am I"-tier shit.

[@SparkleP8nter]

Error 404 🙌 Entirely!

[@Cacowninja]

What if they're willing to take "No." for an answer? I mean it's one thing to simply ask for free art, it's another to DEMAND it. Asking isn't necessarily bad/greedy, it's when you demand it that you're being bad/greedy. Ask = Inquiry Demand = Force

[@kurapikakurta1997]

I only ask $5. They say that’s too much, but most people that actually payed said it’s worth at least $20, so be lucky I’m not charging that price.

[@russiancheems2275]

Tbh I just draw mah own shii

[@purplepepper2503]

I just finished making a good comic for a school project. My hands feel strained, I feel tired, and then I come across this. DAMN RIGHT IT SHOULDN'T BE FREE. If I weren't doing my comic for my grades, I wouldn't be doing it at all if it were for somebody other than me.

[@CharacterDesignForge]

Art is fun but it is work!

[@purplepepper2503]

@@CharacterDesignForge Yeah, it totally was ^_^ I just wish my groupmates didn't make me do everything ._. That wasn't fun...

[@CharacterDesignForge]

Yikes!

[@ThatBugBehindYou]

My take on the, "should art be free" question is to counter it with the principal of, "art as a luxury". I find the only reason why the titled question exists it due to the notion that art is a necessity when, in fact, it never is. "But I need art for my website" As long as your site functions it needs no art to work. "But I need art for my pitch at a meeting" As long as you have a firm grasp and good presentation you need no art. "But I need art for my character" No, just, no, books are a thing my friend. I've yet to see someone make a solid point where art wouldn't be a product or a luxury, thus, art continues to be a paid product.

[@kurapikakurta1997]

Even if they did have a good reason, I don’t see why they can’t just draw something themselves. Is it that hard? If I could colour inside the lines by the time I was three, then surely someone can draw.

[@turtleguy123r3]

I mean, food is without a doubt a necessity, and it still costs money lol, some people are wild.

[@michaz1021]

Yeah but a movie, a video game or a comics it's not a necessity too.

[@ambern.7372]

Not getting paid for work that has taken 4+ hours and is semi-complicated? If I were to give away art for free, I'd go broke trying to buy art supplies later. ;-; Art is something that is beautiful and incredibly complicated, it is a vital part of this scary big world. Artists need to be appreciated.... once more Brookes is sharing jewels of wisdom.

[@CharacterDesignForge]

Thanks Amber, super true! And appreciate that 😄

[@Orfkip]

Well, the people who practice certain things tend to overestimate its value. Maybe your 4+ hours of work might feel like valuable work but maybe you're just polishing a turd. If people don't want to give anything for it then that is exactly its value.

[@CharacterDesignForge]

Orfkip Orfkip i said in the video that your skills need to be at a certain level. What you’re saying doesnt really need to be said. If someone denegrates or neggs work that’s perfectly fine, it’s an unnecessary devaluation typically used as a predatory tactic, like I said

[@Orfkip]

Yes, your skill need to be a certain level, because of that people need to stop thinking their art is of much value. Only the few at the top can truly make a living out of art. And no, denigrating people's art can't really be considered a predatory tactic because you want to get the best out of the deal when you pay for it. Some people are better off not spending time on art because they will be broke if they expect to get money out of it, giving false hope could also be considered a predatory tactic.

[@CharacterDesignForge]

Orfkip I get that youre really trying to prove me wrong, here and the other comment you deleted, but I really disagree with the way you’re approaching this. In a case where someone is not good enough, which is plenty of people still learning, their time should be spent practicing. You’re creating a false equivalency though between an amateur at an amateur skill level and a professional at a professional skill level, and using that as justification for being untrusting of the professional. This is not a video about becoming good enough. This is a video about respecting yourself when you are good enough, and being wary of people, frankly, that conduct themselves the way you are.

[@BAwesomeDesign]

"I'll make you a deal. Come paint my house and I'll give you a free sketch. You buy and bring the house paint; bring tarps--I don't want house paint everywhere. If you get a drop on the carpet, you don't get your sketch. When can I schedule you to come over?"

[@Stratelier]

Q: "Art should be free" A: "Free as in free speech, not free beer"

[@dragoniraflameblade]

I got really sick of a writing group on FB after one of the writers on there encouraged people to "find an artist who doesn't know any better and get them to do a cover for cheap". There was a lot of other negative behavior cropping up, but that really broke me. I didn't respond, but I probably would have gotten ignored or reported, lol.

[@aknuk2]

I take lots of breaks from Facebook because of stuff like that. I've actually gotten bullied and I just don't have emotional energy for stuff like that so I don't join pages anymore and am extremely private on Facebook. Not sure why the culture on Facebook is so mean.

[@aknuk2]

@@Orfkip On the other hand it's not really fair to shaft someone who is just starting out who does have quality work is it?

[@mellowmelly9258]

"can u draw me this for free pls" "c o n s u m e l e g w e a r ."

[@isabellacox5035]

Eat!! Pant!!

[@Cacowninja]

What not just say "No."

[@mellowmelly9258]

@@Cacowninja because it doesn't have the same amount of energy

[@CharacterDesignForge]

Many dont take no for an answer and begin harassing

[@Cacowninja]

@@mellowmelly9258 What do you mean by energy like are you aiming for it to have energy?

[@terig8974]

I've worked freelance as an artist and a carpenter. In my personal experience, carpentry clients are worse than art clients. The carpentry clients seem to have less respect of the work we do than the art clients and there have been multiple occasions where the carpentry clients have signed an air-tight contract only to blatantly breach said contract. People are pretty shameless. People seem to have more respect for the art making process because they themselves are completely in the dark about what it takes for me to complete their commission. For some reason the carpentry clients seem to think they could do it themselves if only they had the time and tools. They can't. Half of them can barely read. I also used to work at a Subway. Weird.

[@AlexMint]

Art may be 'fun' but art hurts. My hand is not in a state to be drawing 50+ hours a week and if I was to do it for free, I wouldn't be drawing blue foxes for other people when I could be doing personal projects.

[@Djcat_Meow]

I remember during my senior year of high school I had the man who takes the school photos ask if I could Do a logo for his company and that I could get in contact with him through my teacher. I was so excited I made It for him within the day and asked my teacher when I should send it to him. When she said as soon as possible and not to worry about payment since she knew him I believed her. Sadly, I never heard back from him and my art teacher blew me off whenever I asked about it. It was really discouraging to get blown off the first time I ever did art commercially and kinda put me off doing art for others for a long time.

[@CharacterDesignForge]

Eeesh. That’s something i only hinted at in this video. There was tangible financial damage, but plenty of creative damage in the following months too. Sorry to hear. Hopefully it keeps you wary now!

[@gh0ulbunni817]

I'm very glad my friend who has commissioned me three times has always watched my art closely and seen my art and then made a decision. He's a really great person who thinks art is a luxury that should be paid for. He's awesome!

[@senthesanguinesinner9]

I was literally offering traditional mixed media art commissions at my college campus for $15.00 minimum, which I thought was fair even though the usual is around $20.00+. Some dude offered me a whopping two bucks for a full color with background piece. I tried to be polite but he went on to insult my work like a belligerent child. Needless to say, this video is auditory assurance therapy.

[@pdreding]

Art should be libre, not gratis.

[@Stratelier]

Alternatively phrased, free as in "free speech" not "free beer".

[@JGHFunRun]

A FOSS fan, I see.

[@rickchris7698]

I've had a ton of experience with this in the past, like being told art is fun - therefore I should work for free since I'm just playing. That art isn't really anything important, it's just someone scribbling on paper. I began to ask people if they didn't consider art as a "real" profession, what sort of work is a real profession? Mostly, they couldn't answer, when I'd press the issue, they'd reply factory work, retail, even janitorial. Arrgh. Regarding free work. In the past, people who have wanted free work intended to use the product I produced in something that would make a fair amount of money for them. And I'd discover that such people were usually pretty well off. (Lot of con artists.) I used to be very public spirited about donating work until I discovered that sometimes (frequently) people were bragging how they conned me into doing free work. Regarding doing free work for the publicity - free work never ever led to any jobs, people like using your work, but they'll usually never mention the artist's name. Adding insult to injury, sometimes free work is a negative thing. Once I was asked to do some display pieces for a children's event at a library. Large pieces, and I didn't really want to do all that work but I thought I'd be a good guy and do the job anyway -- after all it was a library, non-profit and all that. Quite some time after I found out some woman worker at the library was gossiping that the only reason anyone would do free work for a children's event was that they were probably a pedo. Big Arrrgh! So even if you do free work, someone may stab you in the back for it. Finally, regarding value of art, the art I do is very realistic and usually requires a lot of research and many hours sitting at my drawing table, so at the very least, there's a ton of labor involved, pretty much the same thing with other artists. There's also the issues of quality and uniqueness of the artwork. People wanted me to do work because they had a hard time finding someone who could do work of the same caliber. So it's a matter of rarity as well and rare things are usually expensive. It would be relatively difficult to find someone who could produce type of work that Brookes does at his level of expertise and ability. So if someone complains that if Brookes won't do something free for them, they won't be able to find anyone else who could do the same level of work, that would be a very sad story indeed - one that no one should shed a tear over.

[@JoeBeWon]

I came here expecting a sassy and funny Brookes because of the subject. But stayed for the very articulate and professional video you made. Great stuff man!

[@CharacterDesignForge]

Return of Brookes: the wrath of sass! 😆 Thank you!

[@chimaeraarts]

@@CharacterDesignForge would defenitely see a video of Brookes vs Sass Brookes

[@Barada73]

I have a similar story where a world champion athlete (that I won't name) was opening up his own gym and, since he was a friend of a friend, I agreed to help him design a logo, conceive of the overall branding for the gym, design flyers and signs, and even helped him edit together a television commercial... all for only $450... for EVERYTHING. Even though I was doing a massive amount of work for nearly nothing, it still took him over 6 months to pay me after all the work was complete. During which time he kept stalling and even lied to me, claiming that he had sent payment when he never did. It put me so far behind on all of my bills that I ended up getting kicked out of the house I was living in and was forced to find a new place to live. So now, I don't do anything without some kind of upfront payment and I don't allow anyone to guilt me into giving them free art.

[@annafang858]

Dang that sounds like my mom's boss. I’m sorry that happened to you

[@felusthefine7700]

Inspiring words. People need to respect artists more because in the end, we still need to make a living somehow. If this is where we choose to place our expertise, then people need to realize that and start acting more like people than customers.

[@northlemon]

What people don't understand is that art is a luxury, not a necessity. Art isn't something you need to live a human worthy life like clothes, water/food, a home, etc., it's something that provides additional pleasure or satisfaction and these things need to be paid, that's how a society works.

[@ntlnproductions7269]

whether it's a necessity or not, someone has to provide it. Just like food, water, medicine or shelter, art is produced by someone through time and effort. ultimately, "necessity" is barely anything and even food, water, medicine or shelter at some point (fairly early on) becomes a luxury. In fact I would say that being able to enjoy someone else's labor is a luxury, or that it should be treated as such.

[@northlemon]

@@ntlnproductions7269 So, what's your point? I never said art just didn't have to exist, technology and cars are a luxury as well but they still need to provided. And true, in our capitalist societies, these things become ""luxuries"" fast, but governments usually provide them to those who can't afford them, be it over money or places like soup kitchens.

[@ntlnproductions7269]

SugarYams i guess my point is how you distinguished art as a luxury, but it's made in the exact same ways that necessities are made, with time and effort. I guess how I see it, nothing should be free, unless both parties agree to that kind of transaction. I never said art doesn't have to exist either, but I think I did say that if we are talking about necessity, you don't need much to fill that quota.

[@tsundasta6389]

It’s hilarious how people think art should be free but are okay with the fact that you have to pay to be alive 😂

[@lepidlover0557]

@@tsundasta6389 YES. YOU UNDERSTAND ME

[@Jack1994hoo]

I simply put it like this: I have very little time to draw stuff for myself, so I wont give that little time to draw stuff for someone else, specially if it's something I dont like.

[@aknuk2]

What a great video! All good things for someone just starting to keep in mind like if I am ever able to get started getting paid. I love how encouraging you are in all your videos especially since I really need that right now. Im not able to work anymore outside the house because of uncontrollable epilepsy and am hoping to reinvent myself with art. Not to mention, my daughter loves it too. It's good therapy too!

[@CharacterDesignForge]

All the best to you, I hope it works out! Im so glad working from home has become an option for folks suffering from chronic conditions!

[@aknuk2]

@@CharacterDesignForge Thank you. I hope it works out too! 🙃

[@DRYeisleysCreations]

The Sistine Chapel wasn't painted for free.

[@Cacowninja]

3000 ducats at least initially: www.thevintagenews.com/2017/02/22/michelangelo-refused-to-be-paid-for-his-work-on-st-peters-basilica/#:~:text=For%20painting%20the%20ceiling%20of,000%20ducats%2C%20an%20astronomical%20sum.

[@madameklowny2654]

The funniest thing I ever heard about that Chapel being painted was that they had to tell Michelangelo to stop drawing dicks on the figures, he drew a bunch of dicks because his pay was so low lmfao.

[@marcelpagnol2704]

Sure. If I can live for free.

[@aniofri]

Really? would you make art for anyone who ask for it? would you waste your time for a random guy even if you can live for free?

[@marcelpagnol2704]

@@aniofri Sure! Art is not burden for me. If I can secure a place to live in. And food. Yeah of course, I Just need to be in the mood though. I am planning to buy à house and have a small farm for free vegetable Milk and méat. Once I get that i'll let my drawn free on the net.

[@aniofri]

Are you sure? you look a bit emotionally unstable..

[@marcelpagnol2704]

@@aniofri no that is you. Ha ha ha

[@aniofri]

but you just said that.. "I'm emotionally unstable and wanna kill myself, but Sure! Art is not burden for me. If I can secure a place to live in. And food. Yeah of course, I Just need to be in the mood though. I am planning to buy à house and have a small farm for free vegetable Milk and méat. Once I get that i'll let my drawn free on the net." ;)

[@StarlightAkari]

So I'm going to send this to anybody and everybody, anytime I get this comment, share it all over social media and show this to any young artist ever starting commissions or trying spec work. Cool? Cool. Thank you so much Brookes for creating once again another fantastic video ❤️

[@shikiira4185]

There are multiple reasons why an artist should be paid for their work. For necessity purposes and because it takes time and effort to create art. Another reason is, one people seem to forget, is that there's also a cost to make the art itself. Art supplies aren't free! That stuff can be pretty expensive. Sure, there's digital art, but a lot of the good programs are most likely going to cost a good amount of money. If you're commissioning someone who uses photoshop, they really should get paid since photoshop is a subscription, meaning there's a monthly payment to use the program, which isn't cheap! If the person you're commissioning can't afford the supplies, good luck getting a good quality piece of work. I'm not saying you can't get good work with limited options, I use Gimp, a free program. However, because I'm limited, I have to improvise a lot with my work in order to recreate what people can do easily in the more expensive programs.

[@CharacterDesignForge]

Definitely! Good points!

[@MrLuigiBean1]

This video was great. I'm not an artist myself, but it PAINS me to see them getting all this trouble for silly, stupid issues like this. I couldn't agree with you and your points more!

[@markrounseville6998]

That's awful, dude. I'm sorry that happened to you.

[@CharacterDesignForge]

Thank you Mark!

[@markrounseville6998]

@@CharacterDesignForge I think that is the most detrimental one I've heard so far. I am no stranger to financial struggle. My dad lost his job in the recession, and we're still feeling some of the effects of that. I can understand that getting put in a bind and a monetary stretch close to breaking point. I'm 19 and I'm a college student. I'm studying mechanical engineering. I have had passions for drawing and playing the trumpet for years now. I like your channel a lot, and I hope you have even better times ahead of you!

[@CharacterDesignForge]

Thank you, I hope so too! Going to keep working hard until I can't anymore, hopefully somewhere along the way things will ease up :D

[@genxlife]

I once asked for a partial payment up front, and that asshole accused me of trying to scam him. Of course in reality, he was trying to scam me and he obviously thought he was entitled to scam me! This sort of thing is high-level bullshit!

[@JonathanTash]

The one artist that I did get to agree to make a picture for me, WOULDN'T FREAKING TAKE MY MONEY!!! They eventually made a rough sketch for me, and then after I praised their work, I asked what payment method they were planning to use, and they REFUSED TO LET ME PAY THEM AGAIN! I later found their ko-fi donation page, and gave them money that way, but they never showed any further interest, stopped responding to my emails, and never finished the project.

[@boogiewoogie343]

I think you're lucky that Artists draw for you for free.

[@bluedotdinosaur]

In a related subject, I think a few big reasons why artists under-charge for their work are: 1. desperation to keep some form of income arriving while they struggle to grow. 2. lack of confidence in the worth of their own output and abilities. 3. the inherent difficulty in finding a niche populated by customers who can afford to pay for what art design is really worth. And 4. subconscious conditioning originating from the devaluation of art and artistic experience. Numbers 2 and 4 are closely linked. People tend to absorb the idea that art, as a luxury, is of little value because it isn't a "tangible" luxury. Outside of sculpture, most art is visual or aural and society does a good job of devaluing intangible things. This causes artists to undervalue their own capabilities by feeling that their hard work and earned skills don't result in anything significant. And from there, they feel it isn't right to demand too much money in exchange for their time and effort. Breaking through these four factors can be a long-term challenge. However I have found some advice that helps artists is to remember that by doing so, you are not just helping yourself, you're helping other artists. You are debunking the idea that art has no value. You become a living demonstration that artists can be successful. And the more confident artists there are, the less power is given to "art should be free". Certain fandoms, for example, are pretty bad for this and are full of people who greedily want art but don't want to pay for it. Not by coincidence, these fandoms are also famous for artists who undercharge for work or do work for "favors" or merely to become socially popular. The actions and attitudes of these artists has contributed to the common culture around themselves. The truth is, if you act like a professional, you will run into some immediate pushback from people who are not used to dealing with professionals. People can get weirdly mad and offended when they are suddenly asked to conform their behavior and expectations to a professional standard - it is challenging them to rise out of their laziness or inertia. It is worth challenging people with professional behavior though, because it is ultimately better for everyone.

[@CinzaChumbo]

Holly molly... One of the best comments I've seen here about it, and only ONE like. Well... here, have mine. If I could give you twenty likes, I would. Though, if Brookes Eggleston would pin this comment of yours, it would be great.

[@pancakeproductions9610]

I actually relate to this so much, I started up doing emotes and sub badges for Twitch, I talked to friends on there who do commissions and do art, and for one emote, I at first put down $3, my friends got mad at me, and told me to bump it up to at least $5, i am always worried I am overcharging for being (at the time) a noobie to digital art. When I posted my omissions listings, someone who previously commissioned me for some sub badges (so 18x18, 36x36, 72x72 sizings at the time) and it took me at least 7 hours and he paid me $15. I put $25 for 4 badges, and that same guy came back to me and said i am charging TOO much. I learned my lesson of, listen to the artists who have experience of it and not your customers who want to get the cheapest possible charge. I have upped my commission prices and I still get commissions. Never sell yourself short is a well learned lesson.

[@CharacterDesignForge]

Exactly. There will be some people who will be upset no matter what cost you give it, so you only price to gain their favor, you'll never turn a profit. Price what you're worth and what it takes, though, and you'll get the customers that value you. Your prices dont have to please everyone, only the people who will buy from you, if that makes sense.

[@radicallaruby]

Thank you for this video. Seriously, I've done the "street artist" thing in Hollywood and Venice Beach in Los Angeles, and had people complain about spending $20 on framed prints of my art. The next week I even put it at $10, and STILL had complaints that they were too expensive. It's no wonder alot of artist become really cynical about this stuff. If you think what's practically chump change too much for a piece of art, then perhaps you have more important thing to worry about than buying what's essentially a luxury. I know the value of my art, and even trying to meet halfway yields no results as people still show how ungrateful and entitled they are, for a drawing of a cartoon character. Same case online, had someone ask me to work on a comic......then asked if a few of the pages can be done for free. What a sorry mindset, I hope art and artists will get recognition that's deserved for all the hard work put into it, because we're still not quite there yet.

[@sebbb5980]

I work in a pre-school environment. Which involves a lot of arts and crafts. Sometimes, I may sit down with the kids if they're already in the process of drawing and scribble something, which I consider one of the perks of the job. Thing is, when you have a decent grasp of illustration, particularly when you refuse to "dumb it down" (I loathe that phrase, particularly when applied to a child's drawing compared to an illustrator, not taking in account artistic merit such as abstract thinking and whatnot), your sketches, even simple ones, tend to get a lot of attention from the kids. However, this leads to a lot of "Can you draw one for me?" or "Can I have that picture?" I do my best to gently say no, as I A) I don't work for free and I can't honestly demand payment from children B) want to encourage kids to CREATE, not reproduce. On the one hand, it's a struggle to say no to such sweet kids. On the other hand, it's a really good way to get a conversation started on how goods and services needs proper compensation, which is a good lesson in a corporate world. One of my best arguments goes like this: "Imagine that I gave you this free picture. Then I'd have to draw free pictures for everyone here. And that's like 10-20 pictures. What if I asked that of you?" Then again, these are kids, so their way of thinking is different from adults. They are generally much more reasonable than corporate penny-pinchers. Yeah, take that. It's thanks to videos like this that I started demanding payment for my work and seriously think about the time, material and effort put into it. It's also thanks to my aunt, who straight up WANTED to pay me for my art back when I never thought of asking. I didn't have the time to do those assignments, so there was no deal made, but it was a respectful denial. Which is what these "art for free" types need to get into their thick heads.

[@mslightbulb]

Art should be free. Dear person who says this, nothing is free today, apart from things like breathing, walking etc. You should know that if they could, people would also charge for this things. The service and product of art is no exception.

[@minhkieu21]

Amazing and insightful video as always Brookes! My sincere apology to your family about what had happened and I hope you guys recovered. Thanks to your video and your passion, I'm getting my first job as a character designer in next month. When that happens, I'll become your Patreon and help support you and your family! Keep it up!

[@CharacterDesignForge]

Youre the best, Minh! So excited for you getting that job, I hope it goes well! Thank you so much

[@minhkieu21]

@@CharacterDesignForge no, thank you extremely very much. If i hadnt stumble into your channel, I wouldn't have all the bunch of work on my instagram. All of those work were because of your passion that drives me into character design. You deserve it. Prepare for the +1 patreon!

[@feyrune3205]

Very important topic and you talked about it so professional! Thank you very much! 💕✨ I also got ripped off like 2 times, no i just don't let anyone trick me ever again! Pay or go and look for someone else drawing your sonic oc! 😤😂👌✨

[@zeatehkcasualaccount]

CAN YE EAT ART!? I don’t know what I’m going for haha

[@CharacterDesignForge]

😂 you cant eat art, Kevin (repurposed The Office quote)

[@markguyton2868]

You can, if you make culinary art ;)

[@JGHFunRun]

Can? Yes. Should? No. Especially if you’re using paints, the more expensive, the more toxic. (No, this is not a joke) Edit: BTW, pencil on paper is the only one I’d personally be willing to eat. Neither is that toxic, though I still wouldn’t, unless I was getting paid or something..

[@JGHFunRun]

@@markguyton2868 lol

[@ThePseudonoob]

I look back on this and recommend to others that they do this when it comes to commissioning artists: give them money first, then exposure. In my case, when I comm artists through Twitter, I always give them the money, wait for the art to come, then ask to post it to my account, @'ing the artists for credit.

[@SexycuteStudios]

That's exactly what I do. I have commissioned this one Venezuelan manga artist several times over the years, dozens of pieces. She takes 100% payment up front and when she's running a discount I tip her on top of what I pay. I wait a week or two, and she delivers. Always. I then share the pieces on Facebook, credit her and promote her. I've shared her socials many times, as well.

[@strickerarts]

So relatable. I've encountered people trying to bargain prices down. I'm like, I'm only charging $9.00 an hour for a decent sized painting. Like for example I spent like 40 hours on this one painting so it would end up being like $360.00 in the end also to add many people have told me it's really good that I should charge 12 and hour but a lot of people look at the price like that's way too expensive for art and I'm like well I bought the materials I put the time and effort into this art, all I ask is payment for the time it took me to make the art, so I can then get taxed from my pay and have to go buy new materials for the next person. It's like going to car salesman and trying to get a car for free which most likely will not happen. 😂 PS to anyone who thinks art is overpriced. I don't really care about money it's just, that it's a necessity for surviving in this world.

[@FluffDragonArt]

Lol, For Exposure gave me some anger issues. XD But I totally agree! Most of the time it's the artist charging less than $5 for their skills and time that ticks me off. Just... Like... WHAT??? This is not to say that I charge the perfect amount, as I'm still trying to figure that out, but holy fudge, fellow artists, charge what you're worth!!!

[@CharacterDesignForge]

GET SOME DANG RESPECK ON YSELVES

[@Cacowninja]

People can charge what they want, they shouldn't feel pressured to do it for free or expensive.

[@smallbar2012]

My wife and I are on the verge of launching a freelancing videography business, and one of my biggest hurdles has been figuring out how to valuate our services. Even as someone who's worked a creative job for five years, it's easy to buy into the lies that there's no real, tangible value to what I do. Thanks for the wise and encouraging advice.

[@Burnoutmp4]

As much as this era is obsessed with media we often treat the fundamental building blocks as mere pixels.

[@TheiBunny]

I used to draw a lot in high school, and would be asked by nearly everyone I talked to (and some people I didn't) if I could draw them, or something for them... They really only just pointed at the drawings I'd done of and/or for my girlfriend at the time, and asked if could do the same for them. I'd pretty much always decline, unless they asked for a design for a tattoo, for which I asked for a little bit of cash (if anything just so I could justify doing it for myself and take it seriously...) but they'd either lose interest in it then, or beg for me to do it for them for free anyway. I've run into the "for exposure" thing a lot recently as part of a small band. We're just a class-based group at the moment, we've only had one "real" gig, but for the most part we play on campus for events or simulated gigs as part of our course. A few people have approached me after performing and offered us "startup gigs" at local events or weddings or parties where we wouldn't get paid - "but it gives others an opportunity to hear our music and, they might have paid gigs for us". I just think it's lucky that they've only approached me or my mate with it because the guy who thinks it's "his band" would have no doubt agreed to do them. .-.

[@vilelilman4252]

EXPRESSION of art, and the ability to create art, should be free to all. It’s an expression of the soul and people. And art throughout history tells a story of them, it is vital. It should hence be treasured as so. It is a crafted trade, made with soul and heart. You’ve heard the saying. “Art is priceless” So any price the artist sells at, is already at discount. Don’t ask them to rip apart their heart.

[@SexycuteStudios]

That may be so, but if you want me to create something for your sole benefit, believe me you are going to pay me for my time and experience.

[@CinzaChumbo]

@@SexycuteStudios I believe Vile lil Man was actually saying precisely that... it's the expression of idea, the capability to create art, that should be free; the work on the art is decidedly not. You would absolutely be entitled to the payment for your time and experience, and your estimated price would be already at a discount; since you're pouring your soul and knowledge on it.

[@markrounseville6998]

People have this sort of viewpoint for a lot of different things. It is unfortunate. With Healthcare and food, shelter and transportation, etc. The people who do the work along the way need to be able to survive at the very least, and thrive ideally.

[@suzannelaforce6988]

When I tell people I'm a writer... "Oh, that's great!!!... Will you edit my short story???... I mean, --- fix the the grammar, punctuation, spelling, make paragraphs, --- ummm... You know, even add some drama, make it more exciting..." Sure, I could do a little 'ghost writing' too, I suppose. How many pages is the story???... "Oh, it's about 10 pages." "That will be $30 per page. I charge $30 extra per paragraph for 'ghost writing' and $30 an hour for any research I have to do for the story, also." "WHAT???" (Blank expression on the asker's face) Me: "You DID expect to pay me, didn't you???" Asker: "i-I-I..." Me: "I don't work for free, and I ask for a $50 deposit up front before I start work on your story." Asker: "But, you're a writer!!!" Me: "I am." Asker: "But, but, writing isn't a real job!!! It's a hobby. You know, --- editing my story would be such great practice for you!!! You could get sharper at writing!!!" Me: "I'm already a practiced writer." Asker: (drawing herself/himself up, ---offended) "Well, I'll just get somebody else to do my editing!!!" Me: (smiles) Fine."

[@-fsa-7647]

OOF

[@extraordinary.9711]

It’s like walking into a restaurant expecting things to be free, if you don’t pay they don’t owe you anything.

[@katsummers9427]

Do not ask an artist "Can you do it for this much?" Ask them 'How much can you do for this much?"

[@andjelkakosovac9979]

Person: Give me art for free Artist: No, there is a price Person: Shocked I have heard a story in which a girl asked for a free art, and the artist sad lets do a trade, you give me a haircut (she is a hairdresser) for the art. She was like wth that is not fair, i went to school for that and the artist was like, well so did i, and she was like no no you were born with that talent... the haircut was like 20 bucks and the art was like 100 bucks... so stupid

[@demonicchicken1121]

I don't even sell my art since im only fourteen and am still learning, but the idea that art isnt that hard and should be free makes me internally scream

[@moistpotato8917]

What is your opinion on spec work for companies? Isn't it normal to have companies ask for it? Or have I just been working for the wrong people lol.... Oh man...

[@CharacterDesignForge]

😬 Spec work is spec work is spec work, friend

[@InnerMittenSignal]

Time is put in by another human, so it's worth something.

[@SephConUno]

15 people are Mad they will never get their FNAFxSONIC Fan Art for a reasonable 0.00

[@seanarthur8392]

Brooke's thanks for putting this out there! Excellent. As Steve Pressfield writes: The Professional plays for money. I totally agree, the arts, of any kind, are based on a set of trade skills that take years to master and as such deserve adequate compensation. To become expert in anything the agreed time is 10,000 hours of learning, development and practice. if you could spend 3 hours every working day learning your craft (3 hours drawing, painting, sculpting, acting, dancing, composing, writing...) you'd need 13 years! I've been told don't count on getting really good drawing and painting the human figure until you've put in 15 steady years of work. So, you get less when you start, and more as you get better. And to all those who say, "Art is a luxury", they are simply wrong. Art is the reason we no longer camp around the veldt trying to outwit the lions and hippos, with infant-child mortality rates of over 50% and an average life span of 38 years. We walked out of the jungle because we had something to say and a gift to leave to our descendants. Art is not a luxury, Art is the purpose of our cultural existence.

[@Aquarellina]

holy s*** that artist who ripped you off dear god

[@JonathanTash]

1:10 I've tried to hire artists before, but I couldn't get them interested. I treated them with supreme respect for both their talent and their person-hood. I offered them a large sum of money, and let them know that I was more than willing to give them more money if my original offer wasn't enough. I praised the one artist who created a rough sketch for me, but they refused to let me pay them for it. This is why I decided to just make my own art for my projects.

[@turtleguy123r3]

One of my goals in becoming an artist was so I wouldn't have to pay others to draw my ideas. Easy money saving tip right there.

[@PeppermintCereal]

I've been thinking about doing commissions but at the moment my creativity is down like shoddy internet

[@hermengarde]

Try doing some fanart if that's not your usual turf, I find that usually helps me be productive in an alternative way and speeds up artblock recovery!

[@a.j.morrow5533]

Well, I don't have anything else I can add. Great job man. Hope your wife gets better. Honestly you deserve to give us the name of the artist that ripped you off. I know why you won't, and I respect that, but that sucks.

[@CharacterDesignForge]

Thank you so much, AJ! Really sincerely appreciate it. I don't want to stir up drama, I just want to justify myself.

[@a.j.morrow5533]

@@CharacterDesignForge No problem, being a full time freelance artist can't be easy I'm sure, but I'm glad you're persevering in a career you enjoy. You're right, artist should stick together.

[@heykidwannarave]

this is great! thank you for giving a good idea for an essay I was dreading to write :)

[@SexycuteStudios]

When creating for myself, I do that for free and am more than happy to share it in the hopes that more people see it. I also encourage others to share it beyond myself. Not only for "exposure", but also because my voice deserves to be heard. When creating for a friend, sometimes I charge and other times I create for free. A lot of that is predicated on whether or not the person in question, allowed me to make a caricature of them early on in my artistic "journey". If that friend started as a client, in most cases I will charge, but sometimes I'll do some free work too. It depends on the person. I had one friend who enjoyed a lot of caricatures of her from me, for free, but she paid for a few pieces as well. One day she complained to me that she wasn't seeing enough of "her character" over others, conveniently leaving out that I did a Halloween feature of her character for free using paid assets to help nail the look. So I guess she wasn't really my friend. I called her out on it, and soon enough I flushed her. When creating for newcomers and outsiders, they always pay 100% up front. I've had people turn me down, but to date I have never refunded someone who has paid. In my eyes, if you come to me for a custom character, that is predicated on the assumption that you like my work. And the result will be on par with my body of work. I don't have a ton of work, but I also don't get ripped off if I am charging. By paying 100% for my work on, say, Paypal, there's your contract. If for some reason I can't get the work done, the money is returned. And again, to date I have not had to refund any money. Less than 100% is unacceptable. If you can't come up with that (and my rates are damn cheap when compared to what I charge for IT work) it is your problem. Take what you have and pay someone else. Your results will be lower than something you hire me for. When you go to a store and pick up a candy bar, you don't pay half, eat it then pay for the other half. You don't eat the candy bar, then pay for it. It is an exchange. If I own that store and an old friend I hadn't seen in decades walks in I might toss that person a candy bar gratis. If you are a stranger whom I have never seen, unless it is an emergency you are going to pay for that candy bar.

[@John-ut9ew]

Great job Brookes, this is something that should be drilled into artists at a young age.Don't be afraid to out that artist that didn't pay you either.

[@JadeDRail]

I do small commissions so I don't do contracts, I just get payement up front.

[@suzannelaforce6988]

When I tell people that I'm a writer... "Can you write my resume?" "Sure, that will be $40." "WHAT, --- but, but, you're a writer!" "I am, but I charge for my services." "Well, --- I NEVER!" "Neither, do I. I don't work for free." "Can I have a free copy of you're book?" "No." "Why not?'" "Because, it took me literally years of painstaking work to produce that novel. My work time is as valuable as anyone's." "But, writing isn't a REAL job! Everybody knows it's a hobby!" "Tell J.K. Rowlings, Stephen King, Anne Rice, Nora Roberts, Janet Evanovich, John Grisham, Dan Brown and Dean Koonz that they're paying all their expenses and much more with their 'hobbies'." "They ARE!" (Sigh. I just walk away.)

[@inkman002]

Thankyou for this!

[@AliceLJones]

"GWAAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRGH!!!! Animation is so hard! People who do this for a living deserve more credit and respect!" - Lord Hater, "Wander over Yander" (...and a higher pay.)

[@davidbakos2502]

Very late to the party, though something I've noticed over the years is the difference in the way people talk about artists and artistic ability vs. those who practice other trades. Notice if people talk about a civil engineer or a mechanic or some other trade, they don't say that that individual is "talented" at engineering or that they are a "creative" auto-mechanic. Many non-artistic trades are associated either with college degrees or otherwise require physical labor and training to perform effectively, whereas artistic ability and creative inspiration are viewed as innate, inborn traits that can only come from within and can't be "taught" or "learned". What this translates to in terms of public perception is the myth that artists don't have to "work" to acquire the skills to make a living - therefore, works of art have no objective value and so should be provided "for free". To make matters worse, the myth of talent is perpetuated even within many art-related fields with the idea of a "talent binary" where you either have it or you don't. This attitude can be extremely damaging to young and up-and-coming artists because it can reinforce the idea that a) having "talent" means that you don't have to hone your craft and that you can just passively await inspiration and recognition, and b) that if you do have to work to acquire your artistic skills, then it means that you weren't born "good enough." The reality is that being a successful artist requires just as much skill, dedication and discipline as any other occupation. The good news is, with the proliferation of art-related channels like this one and the increased visibility of artists as ordinary people and not eccentric, out-of-touch auteurs, we may be turning a corner on this issue in terms of how we talk about art and artistic skill. (Crossing my fingers, anyway) I think Bob Ross said it best: "Talent is just applied interest."

[@alicedubois1348]

When I ask for requests on social media. I do it to hone my skills. I do not add colour, unless I feel like it. Nor do I take an enormous time on the piece. I have gotten a lot of complaints from people who expect me to make full blown pieces of art. My usual question to them is this: Did you commision it, or request it? There is a difference...

[@CharacterDesignForge]

Exactly. Thats an example of something Im putting in next weeks video. But the entitled attitude is definitely showing itself there!

[@alicedubois1348]

Brookes Eggleston - Character Design Forge I will most def be on the lookout next week. Thank for taking the time for us!

[@Zwaa]

This video was informative and interesting and I appreciate its message, but I gotta say the entire time I was listening I was staring at your shirt. Where did you get it!? It's so awesome!

[@thenerdydwarf2725]

Preach, man.

[@flintwildpants8710]

OMG BROOKES IS THE SAME NAME AS RICHARD BROOK FROM SHERLOCK, WHO IS ALSO A STORY TELLER!!!!!111!!! COINCIDENCE? Yes, absolutely.

[@hermengarde]

When I was 11, I was sad I could not commission art because I had no income. So I learned to draw the stuff I wanted myself because artists' work has value and I'm not about to crap on that, besides I acquired a skill myself which is always good. And everyone lived happily ever after, except the kids wondering if I'd take the time off my personal life to draw their idea for no reward because they don't wanna do it themselves.

[@DeWaynesArtDreams]

"Crab bucket mentality." I don't hear that being discussed very often.

[@CinzaChumbo]

"Well, I can't pay you, but you will get exposure!" If I wanted to get exposure, I'd just take off my clothes and go outside.

[@Cacowninja]

Good one!

[@hannahdeards9652]

Earlier this year I started doing A4 watercolour pet portrait commissions. To start out, I had my prices super low at £20, just so I could get some interest and more examples under my belt. This dog account had the nerve to ask me for a portrait for free in return for exposure. Like no, I’m sorry, it’s £20. If you really wanted it, you could pay £20. The sad thing is, the had lots of other pet portraits on their account, so they must have been doing this to a lot of artists. The thing is, the people who did buy portraits off me shouted me out anyway. They paid me and I got exposure. Now I’ve increased my prices to £40 per portrait which is still probably way too long since I spend upwards of 8 hours on them, but I only do them when I’m looking for a spare bit of cash.

[@AriAriAri2281]

I’m a professional illustrator. I went to college for it and I love my work. I used to undercharge and give massive friends and family discounts but I don’t anymore. I remember really clearly a friend from my moms church asked me if I could make a 100 page art book with custom images for her son and I laid down my rates and she was very very upset. My family then tried to push me to do it for free and I just had to say no. That’s a ton of work! I’m actually not welcome back at church because she told everyone I tried to rip her off. It’s crazy how many people feel so entitled. To be fair sometimes I think there’s misconceptions that because my art is professional and looks good that I must be naturally gifted and therefore I don’t spend hours and hours on my art and I do my best to remain calm and educate. For all you amazing artists out there don’t sell yourselves short!

[@peynnep6483]

100 pages sounds insane but possbily less insane if they gave around 10 dollars each page + a year to finish (sorry I am just asuming something)

[@AriAriAri2281]

Your Everyday Protagonist my going rates are 100-120 depending on the level of detail, simple or detailed background and how many characters are in the piece

[@CinzaChumbo]

Are you not welcome back at the church, all on the word of that person alone? Please forgive me if this sounds insensitive, but... maybe in the end it was for the best for you, after all. That church must have been full of gullible, inconsiderate people... who are guilty of greed!

[@JadeDRail]

I'm not trying to be greedy, but I have health issues that prevent me from working, getting payed for art is the only way I make money for myself.

[@mjstarart]

Yes! I'm in a similar situation. To paraphrase Disney "I don't make art for money, I make money to make more art."

[@him8978]

Yay another video

[@melonjuicework8909]

"Art should be free" How come no one will appreciate on their work, I guess they didn't know how hard work to make their creations. In my perspective, I would be more responsible from other people. As for you, I hereby agree with you; Everything you said is true (to me) because I heard that problems from other artist.

[@stryderd4083]

Amen Mr Brooks, well said my good man!

[@TheHuskyK9]

*”I’ll pay you in exposure! I have **-insert number here-** followers!”* Landlord: “You didn’t pay rent last month” Me: “Just give me a couple weeks, the exposure is about to kick in any moment now”

[@xoneak9428]

THANK YOU!!

[@Mr-Moron]

For me I always use a 50/50 price as a sign of good faith so no one is short-priced. So if say a commission is $5.00, they'd pay $2.50 for me to start, then once it's finished, they pay the other $2.50 to remove the watermark.

[@safakkaragoz2575]

*definetely is dying from cancer* : i need free art.

[@PixPunxel]

Love your channel :)

[@xiqikxx8967]

tell me about it...i do colored pencil drawings and when one of my coworkers found out, he asked me to draw him and i kindly accepted since i was a very nice person...when i was done with the artwork and showed him, he was very picky with little details and me redo things ""make my hairline a little more natural.....my eyes are a little dark fix it....i don't want it to smile anymore can you change it??""...and after 5 times of redrawing this work he finally ends up like the end result......and now 4 weeks later he comes up to me and asks ""He can you redraw me again?, I lost weight"" -_-

[@CharacterDesignForge]

oh debbie no

[@boogiewoogie343]

Start charging him for a grand

[@pkendlers]

Yup, spot on Dude...

[@101masterj]

TELLEM Brookes!!!!

[@ancient_bam]

ARTISTS should be free. It bothers me when artists have to give up creative control of their passion projects in order to actually get paid for them. It bothers me when huge corporations abuse art and play with people's emotions in order to get more money so they can monopolize even more of our media. But artists, like everyone else, deserve to have their financial needs met. And if they're going to have enough time and practice and resources to do art, that generally means getting paid.

[@bigbrainjimmyneutron8682]

If i ever did commissions, id probably be too nervous to get people to pay. It just makes me feel awkward, and i know my art isn't great, and id be thrilled to even have a customer at all. :((

[@horriblypink]

"Art Should Be Free" Tell that to Adobe and all the other programs required that cost thousands of dollars per year

[@Mackerachi]

Just be like "Ok, sure. You can have my art for free... after you pay my rent."

[@missiontobeaman3111]

*So should clean drinking water. Yet a water bottle goes for 2-3 bucks a pop.*