Where I Went Wrong

Documenting how I take care of myself after a deadline to avoid burnout, whilst staying in the beautiful town of Stolac in Bosnia. Also discussing changes on my channel and where to take my KZbin content next - please do leave your requests and suggestions in the comments! Thanks for watching :)
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Music in this video from Musicbed (affiliate link) : share.mscbd.fm/hollyexleyillus...

[@kayymonstar]

I personally enjoy the travel/van life vlogs. Would love to see you keep adding those, even if you change your content mix!

[@hollyexley]

I like making these travel videos too. I try to steer away from 'romanticising' van life, it can be gritty and beautiful at the same time. I enjoy capturing my travels on camera for my marriage too, Craig and I cant wait to watch these videos when we're older (as long as we're all still here!). More van content to follow! x

[@amberparton9893]

I’ve watched your videos for years, and enjoy the mix. Really enjoying the travel/van stuff - don’t scrap it!

[@Ellary_Rosewood]

Honestly, as a fellow creator on the internets, I think the most important thing is to create things that YOU want to create. I've made that mistake in the past and it always left me feeling very unsatisfied and empty. On my KZbin channel, my videos are all over the place. I make art videos, travel videos, nature, and daily life videos, etc. I'd actually like to do more vlogging and philosophical stuff as well. I personally enjoy all the videos I make and am proud of what I'm doing. I used to worry about what it would do for the algorithm, but then I realized that it just doesn't really matter. Yes, I'm trying to make this my full time living, but if I'm not enjoying what I'm doing, then what's the point? We will find our audience, not everything has to speak to everyone. And then of course there will always be the special small group of people who enjoy EVERYTHING you make. I personally love all of your videos. You're not doing and will never do anything "wrong". I love your art videos, your travel videos, your activism/political videos, and your vloggy videos. I was honestly quite excited that you started doing more travel videos and I hope that you will still post some here! But at the end of the day, I just think you're a really awesome human being and I started following you and your work all those years ago (I think since the very beginning of your channel!) because of YOU. You've been one of my biggest inspirations as an artist and you were honestly one of the creators who helped me decide to focus on illustration 8 years ago. Remember that it's very natural to evolve as a person and as a creative, I think if we don't then we might be missing something. Keep doing you, experiment, and don't forget what a cool human you are. We love you guys! 🥰

[@Hellojaimegrant]

"We will find our audience, not everything has to speak to everyone." Yes! This! I think what makes your channel unique is that it is very much "you", Holly. The activism, art, travel, etc are things that you're passionate about and it sets you apart from being "just another artist KZbin channel." There won't be a way to please everyone so I say do what feels good to you.

[@mariec5716]

Hi. What you say is all true. I ve explained my view ad to why? People are tuning out? Its not About Holly s Beautiful Videos, it is just peoples, choices. Holly is Lovely and EXCELLENT Person and Video Creator...

[@hollyexley]

^^^ this message

[@hollyhodgson7253]

I can't say I'd be sorry to see more of your art, but I AM sorry to hear you won't be posting any more travel content because I have been thoroughly enjoying it! I enjoy all your content, the activist stuff, the art, travel. And you inspire me to make time in my life for reading. ❤

[@linichef]

I love the mix of travel/van-life/art videos you create Holly. Your content is always calming, relatable and interesting. Just keep it up the way suit you best and that you keep enjoying! 😊

[@hollyexley]

thank you, you are so right that it's about enjoyment. I don't want to alter things too much; its still me after all. I do quite like the idea of exploring art videos again to see what type of content and which subjects I can come up with... but its hard to avoid the travel side of things because its my liiiiife (sing it like Bon Jovi does) x

[@chelsemerick]

I actually love the way you've shared your journey, travels, and the history of all the places you've been to. I enjoy your art projects too, but I think if you feel there's value in capturing where you are in your travels then it automatically comes through in your videos and becomes something wonderful. Your videos are as much of an expression as your paintings, so don't let metrics direct you too much. It's easy to say go with your gut, but I think you've created some thoughtful, stunning content as of late. I'd hate for negative opinions to mislead you into thinking what you've been uploading hasn't been good. Your videos are a triumph, Holly!

[@hollyexley]

thank you so much, I appreciate your honesty, support and guidance here. Craig did a little celebration when he saw that someone said my videos are a triumph haha So true about videos being art as well, I think I can forget that sometimes. Rest assured, Craig and I still plan to keep travelling, so there will be lots more van vlogs to follow xx

[@chelsemerick]

@@hollyexley it can be easy to forget something like a video is still a creative process, especially when it's become a monetized thing the way most content has. And I love that Craig had a little celebration at my comment lol! You're doing great, just keep making what feels right to you and it will all work out in the long run 😎

[@julie_uk_]

Oh Holly, please don't be discouraged by view numbers, your videos are lovely, special and inspiring. I appreciate it's ok for me to say that, I'm not a content creator, but, I've really enjoyed the travel videos - a great escape for me, often stuck in the house! 😊❤

[@TheCreativeStudio1]

Keep doing what you are doing Holly! Love both the new content with travel and inspiration as well as your old vlogs and art videos. Many of us are here because of you and not just the content you produce! Signed - a fellow artist

[@catklu]

A good mix between travel / van life and art would be nice.

[@ArtySubu]

I watch them all, Holly. You do you! Views have been unusually low across the board lately.

[@hyedie]

I personally, religiously watch your videos and don't understand why your videos don't get more viewership. I love your balance of van life, vegan food and chats about art. Things I would love to see more of: - more vegan food reviews and explorations in different countries - sketchobook tour? - a paint with me? - museum and gallery vlogs? - vlogs art shops in the cities you are travelling to? I do feel like it might be time to become a Patreon so that I can get more Holly content :)

[@lawsdraws]

I am always here for any combo of van, travel and art!

[@sarawebb6031]

I love what you’re creating now! Create what you want to create. I know KZbin is all about building a larger audience, but build what you want & people will come. I love watching your everyday life, your art, your travels. It’s all golden. Don’t stop. Stay true to you. 💜💜💜

[@danshibuya6593]

I'm really enjoying your new videos Holly, you've been very open about your life as an artist which is very valuable and i love the places you're going to, life is serious and you don't shy away from that also. The algorithm is always going to punish any change in content, but i think you have a good angle as an artist and living van-life x.

[@laurawoolf3577]

Oh, Holly, I really hope you don't stop sharing the travel/van vlogs... I REALLY love them. And I'm not a new follower, I was here when it was all studio vlogs and videos about the industry. I do believe most people would enjoy vlogs than specific videos about art and illustration and you could even share more about than inside the vlogs if that's what some people are looking for, but your (loyal) audience, I think, would prefer these (or any kind of) vlogs. In them we can see you happier than ever (which is great), we can discover new places, learn some bits of history, hear about the books you are reading, get inspiration about meals, have a look at your sketches, see how important activism is... They do cover a lot of ground and they are great. I hope this message makes sense as I'm Spanish and I don't always trust my English :)

[@susan_brehm_art]

I love the van life videos. I also love the art videos - making art, talking about the different aspects of the art world and how you navigate that. Another zine would be amazing as well as any start to finish projects. 😊

[@hollyexley]

thank you so much! I'm pondering the topic for a new zine... it's something that I don't want to force, I'm waiting for the idea to arrive rather than searching relentlessly for it. I'm headed somewhere fun soon... I'm thinking the zine idea may happen there!

[@RowdyMushMutt]

would love to see the working artist perspective! not inly with van life but how to not overwork yourself, set work times, take breaks to enjoy life, budgetingm hiw to find work etc! love travel stuff personally tho!

[@friendsintheleaves]

I've been really enjoying your travel videos, but also love seeing your art! Could you maybe create some art inspired by the places you visit? That could be a good way to mix both art and travel. But obviously it depends on how much spare time you have to do that.

[@SallyWardrop]

You know the specs and insights you are looking at but I doubt you are providing the wrong content it's just you content has evolved from what is was and new people will find you. Make the videos you enjoy. I subscribed when you re started your vlogs and I find the mix of content and length of videos perfect and come away from them more informed and inspired. From a fellow dog mum artist 😀

[@hollyexley]

Thank you Sally 💕

[@Sandra-vd6lu]

Dear Holly, don‘t worry about how many viewers you get. First of all think of the videos as recordings of your Life and what you are experiencing. I love watching all of them and have been following you for years, since I worked in the same industry. Now retired I enjoy time without deadlines. Your travel videos are very interesting. Visiting Museums, Cafes, cooking local Food and even talking about visiting the vets in a different country give a great insight. I have your beautiful Whale zine, and loved watching the research you did for it, which I think was a lot of work, but what I personally also once enjoyed, was your video about painting the small zigzag booklet with wild flowers. Why not create something like that again or do some sketching of the flowers and nature on your journey. Those little Orchids you came across were beautifull. I think you are a very skilled watercolourist. Go and enjoy every moment of your roadtrip and don‘t get stressed out too much. Selfcare is essential too! Love, Sandra

[@deesmith7880]

I personally love your videos. So much so, I recently became a Patreon. I guess some people can’t relate to van life, therefore lose interest? I would like to see more of the art you’re working on, but also respect confidentiality agreements, which limits what you can show. Keep being you and things will pick back up. You are such a fascinating person! xx

[@hollyexley]

Thank you Dee! You understand perfectly, thanks for saying this 💗

[@BeeDesigns]

Don’t get disheartened with the views, I only recently came across your channel and I’m loving watching your recent van life videos as well as the older videos that focus more on your illustration career. It would be lovely to see a mix of everything going forward.

[@avirtualcanvas7584]

I have followed your channel for a few years now and your content is always so diverse and I loved the whole of 'vanuary' that was so great to see the reality of van life as a woking artist,I found that whole series really inspiring. You always have a really balanced mix of content. You must follow your own heart and mind as to the content you share with us in the future,but just go with what feels right to you and Craig. It's always great to see Midge and Quentin too,make the content that makes you happy and that you feel best reflects your life as an artist and best refelects your travelling life as well.(matt) P.s an added bonus for me has been all your book reccommendations

[@kkhrysty]

I really enjoyed your recent vlogs with travel and sharing bits of new free life, it’s a dream of mine and as an artist myself I relate to so many things in your videos 🙌🏻

[@AshleyMclaughlin-mf7yg]

I loved your old videos, but really love your new ones. I am planning on getting a camper soon too. I guess seeing how your travels is influencing your art would be cool (if it is). But otherwise seeing you successfully travelling and working at the same time is very inspiring to me. I think you just have to do what you love doing and your tribe will come. We change, and if those followers don’t follow, then there will be more who will. I guess it’s just more niche now, but I love that!

[@erinmacdonald4138]

I’ve really been enjoying the travel videos. I’d be interested in a video where you explain how much work you’re doing and what the mix is in a typical week. I’m also curious what Craig is up to for work these days, but completely understand if he doesn’t want to share. You seem very happy and more at peace since your lifestyle change. I agree with the other comments - make the content you want to make! Can’t please everyone. Wishing you all well.

[@laurietrayers]

I love the new format. I do like the travel vlogs, what it’s like eating vegan while traveling, and the life of a traveling artist. Self care tips while traveling is a unique idea.I have been enjoying your channel more since you started van life. I am an artist and never thought a life like this would be possible, just brining the supplies seems hard. You also seem much happier, and that makes your videos fun.

[@jacquelinejohnson2286]

I loved watching you years ago when I first returned to watercolour after years away but I always loved how your videos were punctuated with things you'd whip up for lunch or just taking the boys to check out their weemails. Since you've been in your van yes the content is different but I so look forward to you posting new vlogs. Being vegan it's interesting hearing about your commitments to your beliefs and because we are intended selling up as soon as my husband retires and doing what you do, that also has been great to watch. There's something about your voice I find very relaxing and having 3 dogs I just love seeing your two and the love you have for them. Thank you for all your past, present and future content whatever path it takes.

[@ijustwant2party123]

I’ve been a subscriber for many years now and I have to say, I really miss seeing your art process! I do enjoy the travel vlogs and I appreciate your life has changed a lot and you’re not working as much. I personally would like more of a balance. A lot of times you talk about your art or projects rather than showing it now. I loved watching you paint so I would love to see that more again. Side note- I also really love your reading vlogs and videos. I always get such amazing non fiction recommendations from you!

[@megangardner_science_and_art]

Some art making while traveling will be lovely to see. Just seeing paint moved around on a page is my biggest motivation for watching art KZbinrs (personally). Nice video. That location in Bosnia looks fantastic ❤

[@summercharmes]

A few years ago you said your content is about anything you wanted to post and if activism posts were going to cause people to leave because they weren’t art vlogs, it did not matter. The community changes and you change so keep doing what you want. But don’t chase views because that will just make you stressed.

[@TheTrueTreeHugger]

Honestly I've really really enjoyed the travel vlogs. I do admit it took me a minute to pick them up cause I missed just watching you do art, cause I did initially subscribe for your gorgeous work. But as an artist who loves to travel but has absolutely been feeling stuck, this has been so wonderful to follow. As inspiration and motivation. I'd love to see more of your work again, but please don't lose the traveling aspect. I think it's important to share alternative 'artist life' views outside of a carefully curated aesthetic studio space that youtube/social media is known for.

[@Urukins]

Hey Holly, I have been such a long time subscriber that maybe I can give my two cents. I am a 'came for the Art and stayed for the artist' kind of case. I think that although your travel and lifestyle vlogs are wonderful (and I beg of you to not stop making them) I do think the lack of art is quite noticeable, as well as the industry perspective that I a lot of young artists seek! Perhaps doing alternative content videos could help and bring in more people, that like me, come for the Art and guidance but then stay for the person!

[@BenthicFern]

Interested in a series of videos that reflect on art making and intentional living (the exploration and travel theme still accomplishes this). Seeing the input and output of your creative experience through each day sounds exiting too.

[@ginacadabra]

I’ve been really enjoying the travel vlogs! As a fellow freelancer it’s lovely to see you achieving a work/life balance that works for you, and it’s been super interesting to follow your journey. I would guess that people are missing seeing more of your artwork and creative process… Maybe some paintings/sketches inspired by your travels would be a good way to combine both types of content?

[@Lindzo89]

I think it's such a shame people aren't watching. I don't think I can give ideas on content because I actually really love what you've been doing.

[@louiselangton]

Heya hun - I love all of your content, be that art, travel, books, doggies, Vegan food - yum! And I am sure that you'll receive many similar comments 😊 not very helpful feedback, like. Have a great weekend x

[@thisnthat42]

I love the vlogs. Seeing a little slice of daily life, seeing a bit of places I’ve never been to. Seeing the dogs living their best life. Seeing all the yummy food. You’ve got to do what you’ve got to do but just wanted to say how much I’ve been enjoying them.

[@jennhoffmann458]

I’m so happy you put videos up. I’ve been following you for some years now, and you are so inspiring. From getting your house set up as you liked it, to both you and Craig going after what your souls NEEDED and not staying in one spot. And actually EXPERIENCING the world. Watching your journey has inspired me to take a hold of my own life. I’ve finally realized life doesn’t have to be so cookie-cutter to make ends meet, and be happy. I DID join for the art, and the puppies…but I’m here for all of it. Keep up the fantastic work.

[@EmmaCarpenterIllustration]

Great vlog Holly 😊 Bosnia looks beautiful. I’ve never seen a bee orchid before, it does look like lots of bees attached to the plant, so cool. I need to catch up on your other videos, I think there’s more creators and videos on KZbin now, so sometimes videos can get missed. I always like a mixture of life stuff too with the art. Maybe you could do a series called Illustrator Nomad Vlog or Illustrator Van Life Vlog. I find I’m more likely to watch things that have similar titles and thumbnails. So if I watch a weekly vlog and I like it I’m more likely to watch another video by the same channel that’s another weekly vlog. I heard someone else says this too, I think it’s because when people are scrolling it’s easier for your brain if it’s something similar that you liked before. Hope that makes sense 😅

[@angelicavis]

I would miss the travel/personal vlogs! But I can relate: I make videos about sewing and printmaking, but some sewing videos went viral so everyone wants to watch that. I always feel pressured to make those, but in the end, I think it's important to make the videos you want to make! I love the mix of your content :)

[@katiekinnear8417]

I LOVE this style of video…please keep them coming if possible…they are so lovely, the scenery, the day-to-day, your hubby, the pups etc. i understand the discouraging algorithm and how it affects your motivation and mental space…i’m sure it feels like an uphill climb…please know that there are so many of us who enjoy these immensely. I waited everyday for your vanuary vlogs…didn’t miss one! ty for all you do🤗🤗

[@TwoFourJoy]

Craig’s expression when you went ultrasonic at Quentin 😆😆😆

[@aboveboard4914]

I love the travel vlogs, I have some of the places you have visited on my wish list now! It would be nice to see more of your art but I always look forward to your videos regardless.

[@dianaseely4852]

I’ve enjoyed all phases of your lives and consider it a privilege to have it shared for my (our) enjoyment, entertainment and enlightenment. I missed you while you weren’t sharing much. You’re a complex family and have much to share and offer for your viewers to learn. I’m loving the travel that you’ve been sharing. And I also enjoy when you share your lovely art and the processes. And also, your sincere efforts at “walking the walk” regarding your passion for the planet and all of nature, especially animals. You live a consistent example. Please continue sharing what you feel strongly about and what feels right for you, your audience will find you. ❤

[@ClayDisarray]

I know that other KZbin folks have been struggling in terms of views and I think the first quarter of the year tends to dip in views for everyone, so I wouldn't take it too personally (which I know is tricky!) - but I think if you make the kind of content you want to make, your audience will find you. 🧡

[@lucyb1802]

I will definitely miss your travel vlogs! For me I watched a bit less during Vanuary because of the sheer volume but also sometimes felt like you were putting pressure on yourself to put one out. I really do love your perspective and find your travel blogs super inspiring. Please don’t put them all on patreon!

[@ChrissieNicely]

Hi Holly, I have not been commenting much lately because, for some reason I can't post my comments very often. For me, the van life and travel vlogs are interesting and I watch your videos religiously. I do not think that you lost views because of your content. I would like to see more of your art even though I understand that you cannot share most of your work. Please do not be disheartened because of the algorithm. Ann Reardon of the "How to Cook That"-channel just published a very interesting (and somewhat depressing) video on YT and the algorithm (AI) today. It is mainly about who the best performers are...but it highlights some factors that might also apply to your channel. Lots of love Chrissie 😘

[@rosemaryforeman8194]

It's all good ...your loving kindness and concern....and honesty ..

[@erinneszpaul6550]

I've watched you for years and I love the travel content!! You should continue making the kind of content that you enjoy.

[@silsk9112]

I love your videos, I find them very calming and grounding. I didn't find other travel videos interesting before, but yours are relateble and authentic and I enjoy them very much. I like how you talk about the places you visit and it makes me more curious of the world and culture and history of other peoples. I love seeing your paintings and prosses but seeing new places from your perspective is also inspiring. Make what you enjoy, there is always others that will enjoy it too!

[@rpennybrown]

I quietly like the calendar you painted from your Japan trip and found I started thinking to myself "I also would like to plan out and create some art that I enjoy and then print as a calendar, even if just for myself." So that is now in the back of my mind as something I want to do because of what I saw you make. Your work inspires me to try doing it too. Watching videos of you going through that entire process is something that would be very interesting to me. I see your calendar project similar to those Women Who Own It paintings where you group images together that tell a story. I see this type of composition almost like a collage and very much your style. A calendar is like a group of images too really. I wonder if you might be thinking of creating another calendar or other type of "collage" this year. (This type of work is not your client work and so can step around the confidentiality issues for filming, and yet would still generate income when you can sell the calendar or individual prints.)

[@ellamoody2280]

Love all the content you create since I found you many years ago, please be kind to yourself in any which way you can Holly ! Well done for completing the project and enjoy your very well deserved break!! :)

[@abi6592]

personally, I'm here for whereever you want to take the channel!

[@itscarolinemary]

I love your vanlife travel content! ❤ you will start to find new people who are interested as well.. keep adding vanlife in your titles/thumbnails/use hashtags. 🤷‍♀️😜 I think you can still appeal to your artist audience by showing sketches in nature or even discussing how making art in the van has been through narration. You can even discuss your daily thoughts on being an artist and where you see your future in art, or your future plans through narration in a vlog.

[@malszy7786]

I am an old subscriber and love this mix of art and travel videos (and I loved old videos as well). I probably would watch any video you create :)

[@MaryE171]

For what it's worth, I've really been enjoying your travel and van life videos. I think your approach to van life is quite different from some stereotypes around that choice, and it's been cool to see your new freedom and all the neat places. :)

[@kathrin6078]

To be honest, I used to follow you mostly for the art and illustration content, then you fell off the algorithm and now that I've found you again, I feel like, of course the content is different , but it's so calming. Also it's hard to find Balkan travel content from people where I kind of get where they come from. But I think I'll enjoy most thing you'll do.

[@hollyexley]

Thank you! Your feedback is appreciated :) Glad you found my videos again, the algorithm is doing me no favours these days 😅

[@pestana6073]

I really love your vlogs about van life/travel. Like you said, you seem happier now. It would be interesting if you'd make a video about the differences about your life as a 'workaholic artist' and your life traveling in the van. Talking about isolation, workaholism, etc. The 'dark side' of that type of life. Saludos desde España :D

[@thalemath]

Hi, Holly! I have been watching for years, coming in and out of being an active subscriber. But for me - the travel videos are what makes me watch every video you make now. Before, I enjoyed the illustration industry-focused content, but it felt like I watched them more as educational videos. Now, both in time and with becoming an adult and working more (within design and illustration), I actually appreaciate the slower pace of your videos now. I like seeing people that are more than their work. Your newer videos don't make me feel pressured to work or create, they motivate me to live. Your videos have been important to me :-) But, maybe that just means I need to become a patron! I think it is cool that you are being honest about these changes, and I'm excited to see where it's going. I hope you can continue making videos you enjoy! For me as a viewer, I'd say I like slower pace and longer videos (15 min +). I also enjoy when you talk about books and lessons and people you meet on your travels. And I'd really love to see, if you do a longer project at some point, a video where we get to follow your process, choices and iterations. Other channels I like (you of course know them, but maybe there's good information in knowing what subscribers also watch): Leigh Ellexson, Furry Little Peach, Fran Meneses, Cheyenne Barton and Alex Breaux. Another thing I like is when KZbinrs have a Q&A at the end of videos. And when creators, designers, illustrators share who inspires them! Both within the same field, but also outside. What inspires you. And maybe also some remakes of old videos, but how you would approach those topics in this time, as well as in your lifestyle. And make us comment more, maybe that helps the numbers!! And dont be afraid to clickbait to please KZbin. We still love and trust you ;-) Maybe there is a way to match what (most of the viewers it seems) wants and what you enjoy the most. I'd also love to see the process of that - what you want to test out and why that inspires you.

[@katierobertsart5658]

Ummm, an insider on the numbers would be interesting would it!! A KZbin video about KZbin videos, surely the algorithm would like that!? ;)

[@Rarepress]

We love you Holly! I totally understand wanting to tailor your updates to what people want to see. It’s tough though, because we are humans with varied interests! Personally I’m here to see updates from YOU, in whatever form they take. ❤️

[@MB-ci2qf]

I do really appreciate your videos watching you travelling. It's more exciting. I also love your work as an illustrator. I'm going to watch your videos no matter what you upload. Have a lovely day.

[@W1nray]

Just wanna say I love the new direction! Live your best life and bring us with you!! Yes it's a different demographic, but surely by being authentic, your audience will self-adjust! Thankyou for doing what you do ❤

[@mimareng]

I love yr vanlife/travel/lifestyle/vegan food videos. So happy you’ll keep on doing them over at Patreon. ❤

[@thisisyrrobotfriend]

Please keep posting your travels

[@silviabiondi_essebi]

I love your videos, Holly! As a fellow illustrator who's trying to make art for a living, your videos have always been so authentic and inspiring for me. And I think how an artist lives their life is 100% in their art, this is why I think your van-life videos are so interesting! I can imagine some people didn't expect this kind of content, but that's life and it's also super right that you want to share what you want and what you feel now. I don't know if this comment is somehow useful, but I wanted to say that I do love all your videos and I'm not gonna leave this safe place 💛✨

[@ChantelleArts]

What a fascinating video ☺☺

[@annabelleleeartist]

Honestly, thank you so much for posting this. My KZbin channel is very new and much much smaller than yours, but I've been feeling so down and doubtful about it lately. It started out so promising but it's petered out over the last few videos and I'm really sad about it. It's good to hear someone else talk about it. I've always loved your work, I've followed you for years. I hope you start feeling better about your channel soon ❤️

[@sarah8592-t1b]

I wish I could travel as an artist - but as a tattooist, sadly, my clientele can't travel with me which would mean I'd have to be in a new place for a good while before I could gain clients. I'm trying my best with self-publishing educational colouring books and crafting bits and bobs so I can get passive income but it's either not really practical to take with me in a van, or it doesn't produce enough money. I LOVE your videos no matter what they are - you are so inspiring and articulate, it's great to see you doing things you enjoy

[@deborahdownward3881]

I love all the content you make. Originally subscribed years ago for the art but enjoy travel, books, dogs, vegan cooking etc vlogs. Perhaps you could incorporate some outdoor painting/sketches in your travel vlogs.

[@arleneoleary7786]

I really like the traveling videos. I hope you don’t get discouraged. I do miss the art stuff. But do what feels right!

[@annasuza7760]

I've been here for years and I love all of your videos. I'm always waiting for a new one. 😊😊

[@pdbowman]

this platform is fundamentally bad, it’s not going to reward anyone simply trying to be good for themselves and those who tune in thank you for persisting here in spite of everything! it is good - what you’re doing is good, it really is light amid the darkness

[@judithutter1924]

Learning a lot from your travel videos, much appreciated.

[@claraoso]

I've really enjoyed your videos this year, I am more engaged with your stuff as a 'follower' than I ever have been. It's most important you're enjoying what you're making. Trying not to let the external markers effect you so much and sticking with your joy is the way to go :)

[@DocumentedJourney]

I am equally confused because I love your content! I am also an artist that shares on youtube and I must say you are not the only one that has felt a dip in views. It is very discouraging and I have stopped posting as much. I don't want you to stop these videos, but I won't be sad if you add more sketchbook work into your videos or just you chatting about art, supplies, and how your art and life mix together.

[@karolsartoasis4815]

I really enjoyed the travel vlogs, I also enjoyed that you managed to travel and work as an illustrator. I watch your videos as soon as they come out, your channel is still one of my favourite KZbin channel. I agree with you on how disheartening KZbin can be so I hope you find a solution and you get what you want from this platform. Thanks for sharing your videos, they are awesome 🤩.

[@kerrybrown5752]

I love watching the travel vlogs and you going around in the van! I love the mix on your channel of both the travel vlogs and your art content ❤

[@katierobertsart5658]

I love your videos now Holly. I originally enjoyed discovering who you were while I was researching the illustration industry and learning myself... but then I missed you when you took a break. Your personality, your art, your politics and your mind. (So I sought you out on Patreon!) I love these videos more then the 'boring' home based ones, although I would love to see more of the client work as you make it, even though I know you can't do that. More sketching and painting in nature would make me happy though. I think it would make you happy too! O I say the most important thing is that YOU are happy, happy with the content you are making, happy with your life, happy within yourself. As you are in this one! :) It's so wonderful to see. Thank you for sharing. I love your thoughts, your surroundings, your travel, life and art. Please keep doing something unique and that you love, that can be the reason for making, don't worry about pleasing past subscribers, they'll catch up. Xx

[@patrilustra]

Hello Holly, I really like your new content beside is not so popular, is good to change, you are helping us to feel secure to change things and feel in peace with that. Your tips and advice is always well received. It helps. I always enjoy your Peaceful videos ❤❤ keep going 💪🏻 I watch your videos from The Dominican Republic 🇩🇴 I enjoy that your husband is learning Spanish. Son bienvenidos al caribe cuando quieran. 😊

[@elainewaller4707]

i find your travel videos very interesing, im retired after a lifetime of working in an office environment, i wish i had traveled more and prioritized art more while i was young

[@luisafernino]

I love your travel videos! You both have raised the standard for this type of content, the combination of travelling, the places you visit, the history you share plus the more casual content like vegan food, the dogs all that! I don't think your content is the problem. I've seen many KZbinrs leave the platform because of the views, engagement and algorithm issues. It's becoming more like TikTok which I don't use, but maybe KZbin stopped recommending your channel? I keep seeing the same channels recommended to me repeatedly, and I can't switch them up unless I go into my history and remove stuff. So maybe you might want to add some keywords or write longer descriptions? However, trying to catch up to the algorithms becomes exhausting. But maybe you can do some experiments. :)

[@tinytoadstool]

I used to watch you all the time but my life became topsy turvey right around after I bought your beautiful deck of trees for identification. Finally getting settled back into creating again and therefore back to watching vlogs....Poppy Deyes new channel just reminded me of yours. I have a lot of content to catch up with.

[@tinytoadstool]

Also....watching way more YT since getting the premium free trial. The adverts have been annoying me so much lately, makes such a difference to have premium so will need to binge before my trial ends.

[@hollyexley]

@@tinytoadstool I miss premium! It was so good to have less ads in my life 😭

[@heathershaw9235]

I love your videos, Holly! Especially since you've started focusing on travelling in the van, its very inspiring to someone who is sat in a 9-5, wishing for the sweet relief of death as I answer yet another pass-ag email. Though I can totally see why youtube is disheartening and the expectations are so high now. I watch videos and they're basically mini-documentaries, and it's like... guys, everyone chill out, who can keep this up on their own for free?

[@carrieat]

I’ve been following your channel for years and really enjoyed your Japan videos. I really thought you had stopped posting again as the last video I saw was your 1 year living in a van. I have a lot of catching up to do!

[@lifeontheround]

I love the travel vlogs but started watching years ago for your art/ introvert chat/ vegan food/ dogs/ activism...so life in general but I understand the youtube audience thing. I struggle with my channel and caught between tje love of making videos and keeping interest for enough viewers to make it worthwhile. ❤

[@frilliepink]

Hi Holly, I’ve been enjoying your vlogs - especially as you seem quite uplifted and in a good place. I have watched your vlogs from the beginning and I did like the style back then with snippets of life plus you talking through your art making. Maybe there is a magic ratio of work and lifestyle content? Whatever you decide to do I enjoy hearing your thoughts and watching your art process.

[@OrrieInBetween]

Love your content, Holly!

[@irinasperanza3283]

I follow you for years now and you look happier now so that’s a good thing for you. The videos are nice and interesting about but it is true that as a watercolor painter I started to follow you because of your art content, not really the industry videos. And now I think it misses the side of art, may be you share it more in Patreon but I think if you still do some art while you travel that’s interesting to see how you live you artistic life.

[@Spidercandy957]

I love the videos you’ve been making! I think personally when creators make a lot of content all at once, I watch a ton of the first ones and then kind of trail off (this is true for all creators I follow even ones I love like you!). I loved the travel videos you’ve been making and would love to keep seeing them even if you make them less often. I love seeing what you’re eating because it inspires me to think of vegan recipes I can try. I would love to see some of your painting timelapses again because I love your art and watching you create. I’d love to just hear your thoughts on art too, what you’re making, how you’re feeling about it, even if you’re not actually making art in the video. I love watching your videos while I work on my own art, and I think the videos where you’re sharing your thoughts are my favorite.

[@daniellefrost3458]

I love your content! please keep it up.

[@BethanyMuhl]

I love your travel videos!

[@sel263]

I love following your travels and especially appreciate that you infuse them with your politics ❤️🖤

[@judithfarr]

I really enjoy your videos about your life, whatever you’re up to. I hope you keep going ❤

[@apetalunfolds2712]

I love the travel vlogs Holly 💗

[@emilyhales]

I love your travel videos and you’re my favorite KZbinr! There’s something so comforting about your videos and I just really connect with who you are and I love how you speak about a lot of meaningful things. I also love seeing what you guys eat, as a fellow vegan who is food obsessed! But of course you’ve got to make what you’ve got to make! Luckily I’m a Patreon so I can see the full spectrum of your content 🥰 I have seen every KZbinr I watch views go down the past year and it’s sad and not a direct correlation to the quality 😢

[@rararagrr]

I'm one of many who enjoy your content, no matter what the content is. Whatever you choose to share, you still have an audience that supports you, just remember that.

[@ThePattiw]

I love these vlogs Holly, they are really enjoyable. Your videos have not been popping up on my feed, I have had to look for them. Tonight they were all in the sidebar. I think KZbin may be playing around like Meta has been. It is annoying. After watching this and the previous video I want to look up Bosnia and the war again. That was a horrific time for so many people and without Social Media around the news just did not get out the way it is now. Thank you so much for the mini history lessons and the travel vlogs along with your life stuff. ❤

[@TheMartinClowes]

I love just seeing your general life! Your food and your art and your adventures! Glad you're happy 💕💕💕

[@cherylwithers]

I'm probably not going to be very helpful because I have really been enjoying your content and so am not really sure how you can improve it. I've watched your videos for a number of years and always enjoyed them. I know some of your earlier videos used to concentrate a little more on your artwork, but honestly I really enjoyed you showing other things. No matter what content you choose to include I will stick around to view your videos as long as you continue (and hopefully that will be for a long time.). I am glad to see that you finished your project and was able to take a rest. Looking forward to future videos. xXx