Making Art In The Age of Content

Howdy! Been away for a while and spent the last three weeks in a panic to make anything worth watching - so let's talk about it.
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[@VenusTheory]

Finally back for another episode of 'cheer up, emo kid' after forever editing this. Get the soundtrack from this video for $1 on my Bandcamp ► bit.ly/age-of-content-soundtrack Thanks UVI for helping make my meltdown possible over the last 3 weeks ► www.uvi.net/ And thanks to my patrons for putting up with my lack of posting ► venustheory.com/patrons

[@tomtabak]

stop worrying about the definition and application of the term "art" and do whatever you feel like doing. you have a talent that spans across multiple disciplines, you have an inquisitive mind, you (hopefully) have a couple of dogs and you have a magnificent friend in Ben. ignore all the noise apart from the one you choose to create. good luck, i'm rooting for you.

[@SteamvilleQuintet]

Sounds like you're struggling with the age old dream to be "a real artist", without realizing you ARE a real artist. You make stuff people watch, listen to, enjoy, pay for - to quote a film, "What if this is as good as it gets." Of course I could be wrong..... - an old lifelong artist

[@coringrey2143]

Stay true to yourself. Art is simply relative. You are a constant inspiration to me & I'll keep watching even when it's just a video of you in a bathtub playing with your rubber ducky. Cheers, pal.

[@BeerBrackets]

Glad to see you're doing well buddy. Your content is always undeniably enjoyable. As someone who insists on still creating long form video in the age of "yeah that's great but how can I get the gist of this in 30 seconds," I appreciate you creating what you want to create. Cheers my friend.

[@philparker7851]

Just do what you want for you Cameron. The world either likes it or doesn't. Chances are it will, but whatever. I can only assure you that I'll watch it.

[@ApolloApp_Music]

Here's me with 30 monthly listeners pouring my heart and soul into the production of my next album for the past 6 months or so. The only reason I keep going is knowing that any metric of success is entirely out of my control and the only thing I can focus on is making the best music I can, for myself, at this moment in time.

[@frankenmizer828]

This..exactly.

[@dapremednb]

I wouldn't say that. Imo you can do alot to get your music heard from important people. Theres always something to be learnt in understanding how your specific genre of music does promotion and using that knowledge to get your stuff out to a bigger audience. Im in dnb and theres alot you can do really. Id love to know if its different in your case tho

[@ApolloApp_Music]

@dapremednb I'm not saying there's nothing you can do to tip the scales in your favour. More that financial, reviewer, audience kudos and numbers is not in your control. I could put a pile of CDs for free out on a table in the middle of every city and its out of my control if people choose to pick it up. I could then run the same test again and ask people to take it out of my hands and there is still no way I can control if they take it or not, much less to see if they listen to it. My main point is similar to that of the video, make music for you because there is no 'guarantee' of any success.

[@johnchedsey1306]

I always joke that I have one guy in Germany who will download anything I put onto bandcamp. But if he's enjoying it, it does have a sense of reward for me.

[@dapremednb]

@@johnchedsey1306 thats actually hilarious 😂

[@BenMartinBox]

Many of us (artists /musicians) feel exactly the same. Thanks for sharing.

[@Lolwutdesu9000]

Dude, you're one of the few people on YT whose content is so good, it becomes art.

[@natashanyxx9486]

This is absolutely art. This is social commentary. This is a diary entry, and for better or worse, it's also "content". Keep doing what you're doing, and fuck the algorithms.

[@spikeafrican8797]

You're describing the mental gymnastics around the commodification of what we USED to call art.

[@Turtlpwr]

This is the most sad and true statement I’ve ever read in a comment.

[@dodgingrain3695]

I think too many people want to be artists that simply don't have the ability or the will. When is the last time you saw a youtube video that wasn't intended to drive views and actually has something meaningful and significant to say?

[@veauxcal]

​@@dodgingrain3695the algorithm doesnt support those videos and without support the channel eventually dies

[@ghost-user559]

It’s always been this way, thats the illusion. Literally no such thing ever existed. Art has always been a commodity used by the elite to communicate and control the masses. The “Artist” is just a feel good label that they gave to the people who were used to do that. Used to call them “shamans”. Same job.

[@josephjimorris]

Sometimes I wish we still had patrons in our culture. The other part of what I believe is that art by definition requires a message - even if it’s personal, buried, and obscure. It’s not just commoditization; it’s also the double-edged sword of democratization. It’s great that more people have access as the entry bar has been lowered, but culturally the trend is to minimize or even erase what is considered artistically relevant and valuable. Without a message and a substance, aren’t we just trying to convince each other to buy our doodles? (E.g. NFT’s)

[@samseitz9937]

“Make whatever you think is important to make” god I love this channel

[@FrankJames]

Thanks for putting so much into this video. Your idea that art vs content is decided by each viewer is an interesting one that has given me a lot to think about. I think for many of us KZbinrs, our discontent comes from that mis-match of our creative intent vs the audience's interpretation. In some ways, perhaps what we experience as creators on YT is an exaggerated version of what many artists have felt for a long time, especially within the modern entertainment industry, where artistic freedom and business are often at odds. I applaud your decision to make what you want--it gives me inspiration to do the same. 👊

[@DavidKirtley]

Yes, it is the same as artists have felt since the beginning of art, but with a twist: The platform directs access to the work but is only the motivated by wanting to put eyes on unrelated content. As bad as the recording and motion picture industries are, at least they care if your creation is deemed valuable by the audience. KZbin seems intentionally antagonistic to their content creators and prefer quantity over quality to satisfy their algorithm for serving ads.

[@CatFish107]

Good insights. I suggest in addition to that, the level of audience feedback experienced these days is unprecedented. Imagine the extra burden on a golden age of radio musician's mind if they got to hear directly from every grumbling person as they reached to turn the dial.

[@VideoGameStarChannelSupreme]

You have to wonder if that could be an underlying reason why some YTubers are just quitting to start off the year. It has become a viral trend in 2024 because notable figures left, but even before that there have been people who just quit KZbin and just leave. In some cases forever, in some cases it's a hiatus... in some cases we never even know what happened because it isn't "and one day, they stopped uploading." It's more a case of "and after that, we never heard from them again." Making any "content" is fun when you're voluntarily doing it, but not necessarily when you're on a never-ending treadmill where you either stay on it or fall into the depths of has-been hell.

[@Narcissistic_Penguin]

My INFJ content creator! Make more videos to serve meee Jk obv

[@starsnoireart]

I think you’re spot on here. Years ago when I had dreams of becoming an artist and posting on KZbin, I thought it was the only way I’d ever have full creative freedom. But I’m realizing more and more that true creative freedom in art may not even exist, at least not when it’s done for profit. Not when its up to someone other than you to determine the value of your art. If you don’t have an art director telling you how to create artwork that fits into someone else’s vision, You might just have something worse: an algorithm. The public who determines the value of your work through the views and watch time or follows / subscriptions. If I’d have known earlier that true creative freedom was a myth, I might have just taken a different path.

[@IsmailMagomedov-iv9rn]

"Maybe this is the real root of why we're experiencing the great quiet quitting of everything/ I think artists, especially artists that pursue work in that pure nature are tired of doing this whole circus monkey act and knowing that no matter your intention behind somethibg you're just subject to playing by the rules but it's a game of chess where the rules change every three moves" Best part ever. I've always struggled to be visible and gain an audience and attention on social networks because it's always so unnatural for me to think about creating entertainment content for algorithms without expressing myself through my art.

[@robin_h_p]

This isn’t just “one Art” either, this is hundreds of little Arts strung together, causing hundreds of separate emotional reactions over the course of twenty minutes. The mountains, the silhouettes, the cool-light bus stop flickering in front of the warm-light hotel, and of course the poetry of thoughtful angst contrasting with good dogs & Pecan Sandies. Thank you for it.

[@JoeForrestart]

I loved the flickering bus stop light too! Didn't even clock the cool/warm colour palette on it either 😊

[@TwdlD]

I'm 50 and starting my first music project. It could be rehashing the same shit, but I want to make something that I like. It's Jazz. It's standards. But my way. I have no illusions that I'm going to make anything from this but I have a f*** ton of ideas for projects and I'm not getting any younger. I was finally motivated by the thought of being on my deathbed some time in the future and thinking about any regrets of things I didn't do. As for the 'art vs. content' argument, I agree with you completely. I wonder though, if YT is and is going to be the platform for those who want to engage with actual art made by humans. We're in a blip of an era where the algorithms are making music and content, much like the parasite that drives the ant to do its bidding. I think there is a desire (perhaps even unconscious) for engaging with art and artists. We need human interaction as a species as much as I hate to admit as an introvert and it is become so rare. Create for you, we'll be here. I find you compelling.

[@Poetic-ally]

I just released an album that arguably flopped. But the 5 years of pure heart and soul was some of the most important moments in my life. I wouldn't have those moments, and I wouldn't grow as a person if I didn't make music for myself and Instead pander to what I think other people wanna hear. Yes the worries of sounding pretentious or whiny is something that's lingering ones mind, but saying it out loud lyrically for instance is literally life saving. But one thing that's so great are those 4 to 5 people who really get you, and call your shit a masterpiece. Art keeps me stable and in harmony with the universe, and it keeps me away from the bad influence of media. That's why I'll do my best to keep art alive. Thank you for this, I want more of this!

[@aviitone]

After that beautiful talk it feels so algorithmic to just leave a comment and say "wow, really loved it"... But seriously, in the most non-formulaic way possible, your 'real-talk' videos are truly a gem in a sea of soul-less content.

[@karacoldmusic]

I know it's hard for any of us to really know the impact our art has on anyone outside of ourselves but I can promise you your art is impacting people. I've watched so many of your videos, thought about them later, downloaded things because of them, and journaled about questions you pose. When I see you've posted something I immediately add it to my Watch Later and schedule in time to watch it uninterrupted. I know the views and "engagement" may not show that, but it's there. Your impact is felt.

[@SammyHallOfficial]

The cinematography in this video is insane. Just top notch stuff!

[@karlramberg]

The part I miss in this project is that he doesn't trust the pictures and the music enough to let them speak for them self. So he narrates an essay on top. I might be biased but I love films like Koyaanisqatsi. Just music and pictures

[@airwindows]

@@karlramberg Yeah, but he's so good at those specific things that they turned into content. The ESSAY is the art, and it recontextualizes the content and gives it purpose. I legit believe he meant it, and like him better for it (but it wouldn't matter if I liked or disliked the guy for it, I respect the art of it)

[@karlramberg]

@airwindows I agree he is really good at making these videos. But I also do not really need to know why he is making them, as he is explaining with the narration

[@waynebo248]

Cameron, this is definitely art. For 2 reasons: 1) This was a genuine expression from your heart that required you to comb through the depths of your soul and utilize your unique God-Given talents create it. 2) This has emotional impact. Whether they were inspired, irritated, or discouraged, I would bet that nobody watched this and felt nothing. This caused us to feel and think. THAT is what art should do! Keep 'em coming.

[@Narcissistic_Penguin]

100% agree (Here's a comment for that algorithm tho :P )

[@VIRALBEATS360]

This is one of the main reasons I haven't completely jumped into KZbin, and will always prioritize making music over content. However, it was opening up like this that first drew me to your channel. Since then, we have met in person, where I could tell you what that specific video meant. You have done great work, my friend. It is people like you that give people like me hope, moving forward on this platform. As discouraging as it gets (especially for musicians), these moments are priceless. Whatever you end up doing with this thing, I will always support you and your work.

[@jacobwerre3709]

You are an ARTIST who also happens to be on KZbin. Please, keep making and sharing your art. I always find it inspiring and touching.

[@ryanthirdborn]

Artists will always clash with the 'normal', because they have been given sight beyond what is seen. If i see a better way forward, why not walk it? The blind may call me a fool. Oh well. Im glad im not the only one struggling with this issue. I treasure your words and your thoughts. Thank you for being open, daring, and honest. 😊

[@wipwhopdipdhop3673]

Huxley's Brave New World on display here. We have so much, yet feel so empty. We desire so much, yet are rarely ever fulfilled and if so, it's fleeting. We have everything we want, and want nothing we don't know we should want.

[@kennethsmith5383]

Deprived of what we need yet drowned in what we want. We crave interpersonal connection and given social media.

[@onlyrealnumber]

Content is relevant in the now. Art is relevant so long as it is perceived as art. My music will never be popular, I will never be able to produce music as a full time job but I continue to do it because it is my contribution to the world. I am proud I put something out there and I refuse to become a passive consumer.

[@olafsigursons]

Does everything we do have to be turned into a profit? Can we not just enjoy the process? The rock star is a fairly recent invention that arrived with mass media. For most of our history music was a guy with an instrument entertaining his family or neighbors. Streaming make us coming back to that time.

[@SuitcaseMonkey]

Wow. I cannot tell you how much this video resonated with me. My heart was racing as you took the words from my mind and turned it into a video. I’m a full time travel KZbinr who releases 10 videos a year because I want them to be the best they can be (and something that isn’t throw away) and although I’m making a living from doing that, I struggle with what you raise here every single day I’m editing (which is most days!). Thank you so much for putting this out there.

[@havenstudios6357]

I am ok with being the old analog in the room. Thank you for your authenticity Cameron!

[@hydroponicgard]

This was... Wow. I feel like you've opened my eyes wide from a deep coma that I fell in. The way you worded it all, the way you spoke about this entire... Grotesque position many of us are in, to only end it on "I don't care, I will keep being myself, and do this for myself"... I feel many, many of us who do art in some form need to know this. It's not for others, it's not for the content, it's not for clicks. it's to make yourself happy, proud, or just... At peace of mind. Venus, this entire video genuinely made me tear up. Thank you.

[@Synthpoptroubadour]

Me too ❤

[@ADudeAndHisBox]

Great perspective on the current state of affairs. I've always approached it with a realistic sense of bemusement. The fickle tastes of the masses desperately seeking to satisfy their shorter and shorter attention spans, having their needs met by an obliging set of attention seekers supplying a steady stream of "content" with the formula-of-the-week." I realized long ago that I didn't have it in me to ever try to chase, (let alone hit) that ever-moving target, so I've always just followed where my diverse creative urges take me--aka your "What if I...?" motivation, as you put it. I do so for the simple reason that *I* find it creatively challenging and rewarding with zero expectation of breaking through. If someone else wants to come along for the ride, great but I'm going to do things my way regardless. Since I started posting it online as "content" I haven't changed anything integral to the art itself other than packaging it (right format, accurate descriptions, breaking out multiple channels to have a more coherent broad themes (i.e. trad box accordion, leftfield covers, improv, electronic, piano, ambient, filmscore, etc.). Love your channel and your intriguing deep thought soliloquys!

[@KennethGonzalez]

Your giving voice to existential angst is a key reason why I keep coming back, because it's mine too! You don't struggle and give up, you keep coming back at it. I respect that more than you can ever know. Few creators are as bold and authentic as you are. Yes, this is art and it's also content. There's only (y)our (shared) standard to meet. Take on what's next and give it your all. Those of us who connect with it will keep coming back. Thank you for the inspiration. P..S. I loved seeing that beautiful standing lenticular cloud you captured early in the video. Clouds, weather, nature never fails to have me feeling awestruck. This helped!

[@jansears4380]

I can say without a doubt and with love and appreciation, Cameron you are making things I love to view and listen to. Stay with your intuition and heart. Thank you for this piece. It’s so important to talk about. ❤

[@blurryrecords]

That was simply amazing. This day and age, it seems “being you, yourself” doesn’t matter anymore. Most people (not all) want “you” (and I mean you as in whoever is reading this) want you to be the artist they desire, not the artist you, yourself want to be. Like was said in the video, all it takes is one click or swipe for something you poured your heart into to, only to be forgotten and never seen again. These platforms like patterns, and art isn’t about following a pattern.

[@abstractdaddy]

Art is, and is just as intangible and abstract as love. You're a good storyteller, as evident in this video. Do what your heart is telling you.

[@TheMusicalNotesOfficial]

Thank you for making art. Even when the audience may not be there, it is always appreciated.

[@elwhagen]

You are a musician, poet, videographer, editor and Cameron, and that’s what I and many others love about you. Of course this is art. Doesn’t get more artsy than this.

[@itsrumspringaa]

This to me is art, it solicits such an emotional response from myself as an artist struggling with the same concepts. The age of short form content and engagement farming has left me paralyzed when it's come time to create and share my music in any kind of visual medium, but hearing and reading other people in the comments feel the same, it gives me comfort and a path to move forward from here. Thanks Venus!

[@user-yd4xn5ev5l]

This video has really touched me. I'm not talking about the absolutely incredible shots and artistry in making this. Its the vulnerability, that you are willing to share your philosophical thoughts, and most of all the sincerity you are communicating it with. I understand your viewpoint, that art is art if the consumer views it as such (if I got that correctly), but Id make an in my opinion important distinction. Art is always a piece of work evoking emotions. A cat doing something, isnt evoking anything except the dopamine rush when scrolling to the next reel or whatever, its short lived. This video moved me, because I could feel your struggle. And isnt that what art is about? Sharing and expressing your truest self? Thank you so much for sharing. Much love ❤

[@PeterJoslynHarris]

I am so grateful you and Benn do all this. You always inspire me to be more creative in my music and - more broadly and importantly - in my life. Thank you from the bottom of my heart...

[@syrexio]

This channel is the best discovery I made in the past year or so. I fully agree with the "doing whatever the fuck I want," mentality.

[@RyanBachman-uy9zk]

Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I've long struggled with ocd, perfectionism, and switching back and forth between a million hobbies trying to find some semblance of self worth. Music however has always been my saving grace and your videos have had a legit impact on my ability to finally finish some creative projects. This is how I'm making meaning in a world where so few care, but I'm trusting the process and finding more and more beauty despite these vast seas of darkness, even if I only get 3 likes on my music. Your videos really have struck a chord a brought tears to my eyes. Thank you so much.

[@popolokross444]

This video is so beautiful. oh wait, i realized it's the music behind it that breathes the magic.

[@need_more_kittens]

Oh my god. This is exactly what I needed to hear right now. A long time ago, actually. I love you

[@DanielMarioPlos]

All my favourite artists have day jobs

[@artfx9]

ART exists, lives where it always did! In galleries, in museums, in concert venues, in the opera! If you want to see art go there! EVERYTHING on the internet is just content. Go where art lives!

[@martinagnardahl]

I just love Your videos. For me, this is very much art. I came here for music making tutorials and stayed for the art (not only music but the whole experience) :) Thank You!

[@Darkest_of_Winter]

From my vantage point; you documenting your processing of creative crisis, IS art. It's inner reflections that are both entertaining and connecting with those of us who may be going through the similar confusing thoughts. You're growing through each video as we are too. Either way, like earned :D

[@ocardaugh]

At this stage in the game, I'm just producing videos for the sheer joy of producing them and posting them on my other channel for all to listen to. I spent thirty years writing software and building equipment that will never see the light of day. Now that I'm retired, I can just enjoy making things. Thanks for sharing.

[@davelanciani-dimaensionx]

Only one video on your channel - time to make more!

[@ocardaugh]

​@@davelanciani-dimaensionxI publish my attempts on my @SoundThumper channel

[@ThePragmaticMusic]

I’ve been waiting for someone to make something about this topic forever. You vocalized exactly how I feel. So happy I found your channel. Just to know, through hearing every word of this video, that me and a lot of other artists in the modern time are not alone in this feeling. Fuckin dope man 🔥🔥🔥

[@dtritus439]

This is a beautiful video on many levels. Something I appreciate about your videos is how often you address a lot of unspoken nuances about things in this sphere. This is a huge interwoven web of things and I dont think we have much control over shaping it. Sometimes I think about underground music that exists in basement scenes, the true underground punk rock, noise, or black metal stuff that does not exist in Spotify, and I think there is some hope. However, I also see those same things falling victim to other aspects of the modern trends: such as things not being a matter of if the work is "good" (sure, this is subjective to many degrees) or talented; things being oversaturated because any of us can record and put something up at any time; networking not being about meeting new people or bringing in new faces/sounds/talent to a certain scene..... I think about so many things Ive found randomly, some of them becoming some of my favorite artists or songs ever, but existing in such a level of obscurity. I think regardless of how modernity trends, and how commodification of all things takes hold, there will ALWAYS be some very small amount of people pushing back with expressive projects that refuse to play that game. And some lonely soul such as myself will occasionally discover them, and it will mean the world to that person. I do wish we could all get better at letting those artists that DO exist in obscurity know how they impact us when we find them. We can all say we do it just for our desire to create and to varying degrees and levels I believe that is true. However, I think also that an overwhelming majority of us who create ANYTHING want at least some type of audience engagement and feedback, especially sincere feelings of appreciation. Anyhow, thank you for your videos, from some dude existing in obscurity.

[@michaelkonomos]

I will tell you that I am rare, but I want art and artistic process and “content” leaves me hungry. I do think most people just want to be entertained but that this has always been true - it’s that the majority of people are not sensitive and artistic and introspective. So we make these things for each other, those few who “get it” as well as anyone outside our own head can. Thank you for art.

[@rescored7320]

You are the only one on youtube i know of who is talking about themes like this in a way that makes me and a lot of other people feel understood. Thank you for putting in all the work and speaking your mind!

[@dacresni]

This is beautiful footage and even without the context of a lot of it, and also, i loved your essey too. If it helps, it did make me feel. I love your work and im glad you still enjoy making it.

[@BinaBianca]

Just a perspective from a viewer that has been watching your videos for years now: Whenever I see a new video, I am excited and I get something to snack and to drink, put the video on full screen and enjoy every moment. Greetings from Germany!

[@nickreesyt]

BEST video I've seen on KZbin for a long long time. really resonated and hit a nerve personally. thanks my man, as a relatively new subscriber I'm sensing the internal battle you are wrestling with but also confident you know what your path forwards is. As you, I will keep fighting the good fight and try to walk a line that I don't topple off of

[@onesuavestudio]

well i must say, you spent your time very well. this video surpasses art and content. dude you opened up. i teared up a bit. idk why so many creatives are worried about 'breaking thru' or pushing forward past youtube. its the 2nd highest search engine on the internet and the number one video sharing sharing platform. do we really need attention and appreciation from 'classic creatives' who own and run the large labels and award ceremony?

[@matt_nyc_audioengineer]

I watch everyting you put out Cameron and I'll continue to do so. I come for you, no matter what the video is about. I'm not even a producer. I'm a professional mixing mastering engineer and I don't miss a vid. You do great work, keep it up!

[@jvcouk]

Thank you for this art, ...for standing in the rain to get that shot, so I don't have to. ...for road-pounding for days to find quiet pieces of moving art. ...for giving me a sense of the places you absorbed on your journey. ...for finding the quiet detail that nobody else thinks is viable content. ...for making a dent in this strange media business. ...for doing your own thing, running in a different direction from the crowds. Keep running - just for you (but I wouldn't mind seeing what you get up to)!

[@rand0mhater]

Truly inspiring. In the end the message I take from this is: do what you want to do. Call it however you want to.

[@MidlifeSynthesist]

Holy SH*T ! This was incredibly good dude. Everything from the message, the visuals and the music, 10/10❤ And just to answer your question: THIS IS ART. Bravo🙌🏻

[@christopherbartlett4285]

This may get longish. Firstly, I think I found this channel right around the time you were making the transition from more content creator to reflective videos about things that didn't directly touch my perceived needs as a new music producer/creator/composer in electronic media, and I'm really glad, because what you're doing now is so very much more interesting than what a lot of other people I do also watch for ideas, tips, etc. The questions at the heart of this video, what is art in the age of content, what is the artist's role, what obligations do you have to your audience, are really interesting questions, far more interesting to me at any rate than what's the best compressor, or when to use EQ and when to use multiband compression, both of which are cool but. . . I have, improbably, become a writer looking to get work out into the world. I have also, even more improbably, become a writing teacher at a small liberal arts university for adult continuing education classes. Both of these together have turned each into a piece of community building; I build community by sharing my work and by helping others' work thrive to the best of my ability. That work crosses over and back between technical discussions: how to make a character memorable, how to conduct feedback sessions in a way that lifts up a writer, and deeply personal considerations: I'm writing this piece of my life and I've never shared this story with anyone. To the extent that my community (small as it is for now) is thriving, I am doing something that matters, that feeds my soul. Some of that is writing my own stories, my own music. The moment when I played a mockup of the music for the opening scene of a fellow writer's movie script and she burst into tears, that was a moment that is worth anything. And that's the lesson I take away. A dear friend wrote a book a few years back and it was really hard for her. I asked her at one point why she was doing this, and she said "Because, it's the book I wish I'd been able to read when I was fifteen and alone.. That's enough for me. The idea that somewhere out there, there is a soul that is waiting to read, or hear, or see what you produce, because it slots into a perfect place to give them hope that someone is coming, that someone wouldn't see them as deviant, or weird, or evil, that they are not alone, that is enough. Please keep making the things that are yours if doing so feeds your soul. Don't put yourself on a cross for me, or for people like me, but know that some of us think that raw personal expression is not pretentious, but brave, and the foundation for building things that matter. There's enough cults of personality; I'm part of another community that partakes of this sin because the non-leaders are interesting and I'm learning things from them. But I'll spend my love on my writers and my stories and music, because if one person that I never meet, never hear from finds a way through because they encountered what I did, that's enough for me. I think you can do that for someone.

[@worldadventuretravel]

I love this, and I think it's absolutely art. You've posed an important question and presented it in such a way that makes the viewer slow down and ponder it with you. The video itself is art down to the minute details: in the slow, dreamlike pace and editing, and the thoughtful soundtrack. Even your closing credits. This is my first encounter with your channel and based on this video it's far from being "just another KZbinr." This content-driven madscape is tiring to my brain, and I'm constantly looking for the deep thinkers and the true artists, asking the real questions and presenting their conundrums. I hope you don't stop. I've been asking the same things you are for years.

[@brandtreppond2167]

Your online presence and the work you've put out there to share has been massively helpful. More your philosophical videos like this than anything. I turn to them to get myself into a headspace where I will sit down to create my own art and forge a path forward. I sense the stress you feel in this video. If your goal is to create and inspire, you've succeeded already. At least ever since I discovered your work

[@Varthaer]

We don't know each other obviously, but I find great value in your content being a producer / musician myself. Sending big love to you bro, keep doing what you do and whatever makes you happy I'm sure your followers and fans will support it no problem! Much love and respect, keep shining!

[@getoutofZEWEI]

Absolutely gorgeous. Thank you for deciding to share. ❤

[@forcastfascistfuture]

This is one of the most powerful videos I have seen from you. The serene shots, the music and the editing tell a real story and set the mood for the sombre message so well. You are one of the real ones Cameron. It's truly appreciated that you still want to put your heart into everything you do at this point in your KZbin career, and that you are telling this story of this fight for authenticity.

[@TheRealSming]

This is beautiful art. Thank you.

[@CryogenTheMusicMan]

I have only recently got into your stuff during this hiatus, and having watched a lot of your stuff, and being in a fairly difficult time of my life, it is some of the most profound and real media I have seen in a long time. If nothing else - thank you for doing what you do, and making mine, and many others lives, that little bit better..

[@teshy2]

For what it's worth - as a filmmaker and hobby musician who's followed you for some time, I loved this. The sincerity, the gritty but still aesthetic choices, the behind the scenes contrasting with the central question of "is this art?" while also making art while also showing the reality of it all... yeah man, just... very good shit. Good work, guys.

[@zeronyne]

In the middle of this, an ad pops up selling prepackaged animated explainer videos. I really enjoyed this one. Well done.

[@san_zhi]

I felt that you spoke to the artist in me, or that artist i once was, and I think that says a lot about the creator itself. Youre doing great work and have contributed to a lot in my own artistical journey. Wishing you luck!

[@BradMajorsMusic]

I needed a video like this , it was refreshing to know that there are others out there who feel the same way I have been feeling for the past 3 years. I want to walk away at times but 'm in love what I do and addictive to music and sound . This was your BEST video and time well spent. 👍🏽👍🏽 2 thumbs up*

[@Stephanie3XL]

POV ~ WHATEVER you do for your wee dog will be just AWESOME 100% and all with Unconditional Love. That's worth far more than KZbin ANY day of the week ❤

[@johnoestmannmusic]

Absolutely beautiful shots and editing! You gotta remember that the numbers can't (and never have) capture how deeply a video or music affects someone. You get the same 1 view for someone who watched and went meh as someone who walked away forever changed. Trust your art, my man. We trust it ❤

[@s3yge324]

I really appreciate this video man. It means so much to see others going through the same thing as me. Much love and respect.

[@didgegirl6]

This is brilliant. Thank you! You say so much of what so many of us feel. For me it boils down to discerning what is my job and what is my work. What fulfills me versus what doesn't and what sort of emotions I can convey through music and words and then letting that go, knowing the people who need to find will find it. I've tried vlogging here on YT thinking it would be interesting to let people in on the life of an artist but It didn't do anything for me except stress me out so I stopped. So now, I may stop in from time to time to show a work in progress but other than that my focus is on the art itself. Thank you so much for making this video. It IS a piece of art since it provokes discussion about an important subject of where art is heading. To me, that's always worth discussing. Take care!

[@ereiffman]

I had this on my "Watch Later" playlist about a month ago. And kept pushing off watching it because your videos require a certain degree of attention and focus to fully get the most out of it. I think that's something to really take pride in, and it definitely means its darn good art. Finally got around to it - amazing stuff, the level of conceptual quality is through the rooftop

[@atomicdogfactory4482]

I am old enough to remember life before YT… I have seen the evolution from the beginning and when monetizing was not even a concern. It has been clear that Art, is unlike entertainment and information. Art to me is the most raw expression of emotion and vision. A vehicle to tell a story to anyone and nobody at the same time. Once you make Art a job, it ceases to be Art, and becomes product, and with it expectations, schedules and all the other side effects of running a business. Draw a line between the job, and the art.

[@ChristianRafaelmusic]

Wow dude, this was beautiful!!! This connected with me on so many deep levels! Thank you! Your best video bro! Love your work! Much Love brother!!! 🙌❤️

[@ThatBonsaipanda]

That was an amazing river of thought flow, I loved everything about this and it put into words the reason why I stopped making YT videos - "You wake up every morning thinking how can I make this into a product" Also, best moments in life begin with the words "F*ck it."

[@FugitiveOrchestra]

Not only do I think this is art, but you absolutely are a great artist Cameron! Not only in the 'traditional' sense of the word, but also in a more modern, open-source, thought-provoking and collaborative sense. I was playing around with your Synthbox vst the other day (I have the free version, for now sorry!) and was totally blown away by what you've created and how inspiring it can and will be to other musicians, artists and creators; there can be no question that that is art as well. Thank you and keep doing what you're doing and I promise I'll get around to buying the full version of Synthbox soon!

[@Beargtatt_YT]

I just want to say, Thank You for all the work you've put in to this, for opening yourself up like this. There's a lot of heavy perspective here that I needed to hear and I'm very grateful for all the work you've put in to make this video possible.

[@joshlaw5597]

You are serving why I came to you for this interaction. I love your beautiful camera work and editing. I love the way your mind works and the deep thoughts within it. I love your sober and real form of expression and exasperation that we as artists, and humans living in this crumbling society, feel in our core. Your work is beautiful and your heart is in the right place. I only wish my one comment could pay all your bills.

[@Jecks_music]

I keep loving your videos where you talk about art in such an intimate way. Often I feel swallowed, devoured by this 'content grinding machine' that social networks are, too often I forget that the thing I love most is making music, not content. Thanks again for another beautiful and inspirational video

[@dawnofreality]

"I'm just going to do whatever I want, and that's ok" couldn't be happier to hear you say this

[@TweakerRay]

THIS IS ART !!!! And you are a amazing youtuber... I feel this so much on different levels. Please keep going and thanks for your art. Cheers TweakerRay

[@scottdion3186]

Thee TweakerRay? Love your Survivalism remix man!

[@jemmahooper7415]

Firstly... the footage in this piece is truly remarkable. The drone shots in the mountains... ***chefs kiss*** Secondly... To me, there's a difference between Art as a practice, and Art as a commercial proposition. Ever since specialisation gave the term "artist" (as a vocation) there has always been a tension between artist as creator, and artist as income earner. But art is always about more than simple technical proficiency. "Content" - i.e. passionless professional execution of artistic technique has existed well before the internet. As an example, graphic designers can take pride in their work, but if they're simply executing the ideas that other people have and not injecting their own artistic vision into the mix, that's only ever content. On the flipside, a work lacking in technical proficiency informed by an artistic vision is still art. It might not be "technically" good, but I think it remains "art" independent of any kind of qualitative assessment. Any work whose primary inspiration is getting paid (and all of the creative compromises that might be required to make that happen) is going to be more "Content" than art made for the intellectual and aesthetic value of the work product. Art is creation for creation's sake. Content is creation for capitalism's sake. Of course, that doesn't mean that art can't be commercially successful. It just means that your commercial success (or not) as an artist is driven by an appreciation for the vision and passion behind what you produce, not creating content explicitly designed for commercial exploitation. I am a fan of what you're doing on the channel right now. I wish I could afford to support it with more than eyeballs. Your introspections and discussions on these topics are informed by a genuine passion for the process of investigation and mentation about the topics you're covering. To me, that makes it art. Your technical proficiency in these things is improving, but that doesn't make the art any more "arty" because as I said - art isn't about qualitative measures. Art is what you'd create even if money didn't exist. (Which it doesn't in any objective way. But that's an argument for another day.)

[@GLDNSCTN]

Well put!

[@elindis]

It's still art. I watched and listened to your project. Your frustration and peace come through very clearly, contrasting with each other. You are expressing yourself. You are being heard. It's still art. I understand being frustrated with not being able to reach a big audience with your art. Since your "content" gets so many more views, you feel like your art is undervalued. The reality is that it's just more niche. It doesn't have broad appeal. It's not pop art. You don't make pop art. But I heard it, and I'm responding to it, because it's still art.

[@kinet1q]

That "what about you?" hit me so hard. This video is definitely art for me.

[@givingin2G4Courtz]

Art. Whatever the heck this 'is', I freakin' LOVE IT! Vastly better than everything else I've experienced on YT today or this past week. Refreshing. Real. Insightful. Creative. Thank you.

[@GROPIUS66]

I love watching your art!!!

[@the_real_kieganjones9932]

This was awesome I love your take on the subject. I know that I have struggled with this and this is why I’ve wanted to pull back on all of my KZbin videos because I wanted to focus on creating videos that were more artistic in nature. That weren’t just slapdash left. Talk about a new update. But something I could be proud of for years to come.

[@AB-eg8wk]

Just wow! I love the way your channel is heading man and can totally 100% relate to everything you say... Loved the video and the shots. Thanks for doing what you're doing.

[@cedarraine7829]

Art is a slow time based experience, social media is fast and people’s appetite is insatiable

[@kerryallen-ql4ng]

"Slaves to the Khantent" Almost impossible not to think about 'engagement' or 'viewers, likes. etc.' But once I personally let go about caring about any of that and just started creating on my own schedule for my own wants/needs made a point of contacting people I wanted to see/hear it instead of throwing it out to the masses I started to see some natrual growth in my work not only monetary but satisfactory and developed some great realtionships. I don't refuse to be on social platforms, but like you at the end of this video said I refuse to play the game cause the only winners are the platforms and advertisers. I once had an artist rep of a very popular gear company tell me they loved "social media stars" because endorsing them saved so much on marketing. Big eye opener there. Your videos and libraries have been a huge influence in my rapid growth as a musician that I truly can never thank you properly for. So glad I got to meet you briefly at NAMM (picked the angry phooto haha) Looking forward to what you put out, whenever you put it out. The way it should be haha.

[@SapphicCode]

Yeah, I think it’s art. I have similar thoughts about my photography, but I feel better having decided it’ll never be my job.

[@photophob]

I think this is essentially the bitter - but also liberating - pill 99% of creativity driven people have to swallow sooner or later in their life. And i'm quite sure that the fact, that there is a whole industry based on building up hopes for people that they "are gonna make it", doesn't make this process easier.

[@dillonbeylefeld5886]

As a person watching this video, I view this it as a piece of art. Even just the way you speak about these topics feel like poetry. It was a great watch. Thanks man. Good luck with the rest of the your ventures.

[@accesspointmusic]

It was a true honor to watch this beautifully made art of yours. Thank you.

[@DannyGallowsTunes]

For the record, you are one of the most important Artists/KZbins we could possibly have. I only discovered you weeks ago, but in just a handful of videos you have gifted me more inspiration and courage than i have had in quite some time. I'm sure i'm not alone. And that is what matters. As for the video itself, incredible. Amazing, important points throughout the entire video. And you nailed it when you were talking about how these platforms are simply just not made to express yourself. That's exactly the problem. Before i started using social media/KZbin, i thought these were special places where various types of artists could go to share their passions and unique perspectives/expression. And what i quickly found was the exact opposite. It's all content. It's all just entertainment--the next sweet taste in your mouth. Little to no actual meaning or merit. Artists and musicians are suffering on these platforms because of that, speaking from years of experience! No one seems to care about how or why you craft your music/art. And nothing about it is subjective anymore. Through modern content, the younger generations have been fed what is "good" and "bad." No one wants to understand something different, they just mock it and move on to the next prank video.

[@GaryR55]

If content is art, then I'm afraid we're seeing the end of art as we've known it.

[@buckycore]

No, it's just shitty content. Art will always exist so long as there are people out there who care

[@Noise-Conductor]

There's no rules saying that you can't be an artist with a KZbin channel. Great video. I like your channel for how it is. We need people like you on here. Peace bro!

[@stdm7964]

This hits hard for me. I used to be very conscious of how others would perceive my work, but when I didn't instantly becoke famous, I started to focus on how I perceive my own work. I would say this frame of mind is a process, I didn't just suddenly change overnight. And I'm still going through the process - on occasion I will slip back into old ways and habits. Ultimately, I like to make things and put them into the world. Whether others listen or not, it doesn't matter, it is still out there either way

[@GizzyDillespee]

Art NEVER exists in the Age of Content - it exists in the Age of Discontent!

[@JureJerebic]

Oof

[@chopov11]

lol u just answered the question

[@philparker7851]

This! Be a malcontent!

[@bnjmnwst]

Art always has and always will exist.

[@bnjmnwst]

@@Dr.Garlic. Art comes from intent. Good art comes from hard work.

[@jpf2159]

"I just don't know what to do anymore." That's what I tell myself several times a day as an artist. I've been in this game for nearly 50 years. I consider this channel one of the best resources I have to motivate me to keep on keeping on. Just looking at your Patreon list (which I plan to be a part of by the end of the day), you have a lot of artists who see your content as not just art but also a valuable contribution to our well-being. Don't let the big picture get you down. You are appreciated. Keep on keeping on.

[@kevprimeinla]

Make what you think is important to you. Somebody will love it. I focused so long on being an artist. It’s hard, but I realized people want to know the person behind the art. That connection is 🔑

[@HectorCarcedo]

One of the greatest videos that I've seen in a very long time, keep up, I really love your work!