A Response to Feedback~ Your thoughts?

As a writer, and a gay man, I only write gay porn. I've in one instance for a very specific request written a private story for an individual requesting transman/male porn, but it took a lot of looking into and self assessment. You should never feel harassed, shamed, or scrutinized for your preferences, and it's abusive for someone to try to psychologically manipulate you into otherwise. Be strong, and you obviously have all of our support. Besides , like you said, we need your gay smut 😁

By Veidt

I now I'm late for this but I wanted to say that you have all my support. Also I don't understand that anonimous person problem with fetishizing, I think that while you don't get obssesed with your fetish (in an "that's bad for your brain and life" way I mean) then it's ok, that's also part of sexuality too. We all fetishize something: malexmale, body parts, toys, etc. and that's OK!! I totally understand that you draw whatever you are confortable with and I'm proud of you (I know it's not relevant but I feel like that) because you thought of others (LGTBI people, your readers, etc.) before drawing and that's amazing!! So keep doing what you do, you care, you support, you worry, you learn, you try to understand, and you live by your way and that is how it must be. Also thank you for all your work and for sharing it with us!

Leonace

You have my support to draw what YOU love to draw, which is why I am here in the first place. If I didn't like a particular drawing, then I would ignore that drawing and move on. It's not my place to criticize someone when this is your place to express your artistic freedom. I would never criticize a person in the first place. :D

Colleen Donaldson

I agree when you say that you're the artist and you're allowed to draw what you want. I'm not even really sure that I understand the whole fetishizing thing, wpuld definitely have to look into it more to understand it, but I see no problem in the art that you create. I find it absolutely stunning. NSFW or not. I think it's rude that people get made at you for not drawing what you're not comfortable doing. I know as a writer I'm not comfortable writing certain scenes. It's just not in ability to do so. So for people to get mad over it seems really rude because they're hurting you because you're not doing what they want. I don't even really know if this makes sense, but I think you're diverse and inclusive in the way that you're drawing people and creatures of all sorts of different species/race getting together and sharing each other? I dunno. Bottom line? Keep doing what you're doing. People love you for the art you create and there are always going to be people who will want to bring you down.

Rachael Bennett

As a trans masc person, I get that you don't want to make us into solely sexual objects. That's a big issue that I've experienced far more than I'd prefer in my day to day life. At the same time, though, it's also frustrating not to find erotic material made of trans masc people that's just framed like any other kind of dudish person on dudish person stuff. This is just one trans person's opinion, but if you're interested in putting trans masc characters into your art, I'd say go ahead and take my blessing. Good faith representation, erotic or otherwise, is not a bad thing. There's so many ways for trans bodies to have sex that to be accused of fetishizing based on certain depictions just feel like woke points buzz words with a puritan twist to me. Again, this is your art and it's important that you draw what you want to, but you shouldn't have to be afraid of being bullied off platforms for wanting to depict the diversity of masculine bodies. If you ever want to talk about sexual depictions of trans masc people with a trans masc person, don't be afraid to reach out to me and I'd imagine plenty of others feel the same way.

Oliver Fosten

Don't make stuff you don't want to or aren't comfortable making. It's good if you try, for the sake of expanding your experiences, but it often leads to artists being bullied/shamed into making more and more content they don't like.

I don’t really understand the point in finding a smaller artist and calling them out on this when you could find another artist who draws what you’re looking for in about 3 seconds. Yes everyone should push themselves to be more inclusive but there’s also nothing wrong with having a brand and making things that you and your fanbase enjoy and sticking to that. I understand your dilemma with depicting trans characters in a respectful way, I don’t think there’s a way to do it without pissing anyone off since sexualization and especially pornography is a sensitive and polarizing subject in trans communities. Maybe try it and see how it’s received? It’s better to try than not to try I think.

Also i just really appreciate that you are willing to discuss this! it’s good that there’s dialogue!!

Sammy

i don’t think you have to draw f/f by any means altho u already draw really hot girls and hot porn so like i’m sure it would be amazing. i’m nb and i don’t know if you HAVE to draw trans people into your artwork but also it’s kinda nice to see every once in a while. idk.

Sammy

First off I think an artist has a right to cover or not cover any type of thing they like or are most comfortable with. Of course this isn't including highly illegal things like child porn, ya know, just common sense. But making porn of a trans person might not be your bag yet and that's fine, you gotta learn more, I've seen mostly what's called "cuntboys" and I like it, it's all used in smutty things and doesn't really get deep into anything, just smut for smut's sake. But if you're feeling the want to dive deep and give these characters more personality and humanity then yeah, it might take some time for you to learn some things and until you personally feel comfortable putting that art out there, I don't think you should feel pressured to do it. Just like we don't get upset if our doodle prompts aren't picked, this shouldn't be a problem either, you have to be inspired to make something and if trans characters in smutty situations aren't your wheelhouse, it's cool. Much like anyone else, all Trans people are different and take the content created about people like them in their own personal way, so I don't think you'll always be in the clear, there's always someone to be upset, always someone to be happy. I personally as a trans man find it interesting to see what artists put out, as long as it's not hateful, it's nice to see some representation, especially if it isn't just about a character being murdered for being trans or raped...which is the majority. If you want the best trans representation I've seen in fandom, I'd look at Dream Daddy, Damien Bloodmarch is a transman and he's just him...interesting, quirky, manly and feminine, not an object and the fact that he is trans plays little part in who he is as a person, it doesn't take over everything, which I think is the best. not to say being trans isn't important to his journey but it's not like ya gotta beat people over the head with it is all I'm saying. but that's all my thoughts, I'm done babbling. You do you and just keep making amazing fantastic art.

Liam Borja

Ok, I know that this is both irrelevant and irreverent, so please don't yell at me too much, but I was half-asleep last night when it struck me that you may well have drawn trans individuals in intimate situations, and we just can't see it. Specifically thinking of the skeleton. He is male, but with all his flesh gone, well, the way of all flesh, who but a trained physician knows what he was assigned at birth? And, when you're a pile of bones, who cares?

V as in Victor

At the end of the day, you should draw what you want to draw. If that doesn’t mesh up with what someone wants to see, they can leave. I agree with every thought you have on the subject and I’m just here to validate you. :3

SaintRiley

Hi Reaper and all! First off, everyone above is amazing and giving such thoughtful responses to this post. Civility on the internet?! Who would have thought? 😆 But I wanted to chime in personally on a few things myself, even though much of what has been said above captured it perfectly. I’m a gay man with a capital “YASSSS!!” I love what is commonly known as “Bara” or “Gei Comi” in Japan. I love seeing big guys with big bodies/booties getting banged! While your bodies aren’t always that big, Reaper, I still love the work that you do! 😉 I love seeing men get all hot and sweaty together. That’s part of why I’m here. I found you due to your love of Hannibal, my favorite show of all time. The fact that you made smut of Hannigram made everything even better. Once I started following artists on Patreon, I had to follow you. I love what you do and enjoy seeing what you create. The fact that you are m/m heavy and NSFW is why I remain a patron. As with anyone who submits a prompt to your Doodle Days, does it suck to have an idea shot down because it’s on the “Won’t Draw” list or does not get chosen? Yeah, but there is always next time! It’s not the end of the world and you as the artist should always draw what inspires you. That being said, I just want to amplify the voices of our trans friends in the comments above. Some are uncomfortable with the idea of you depicting trans people and their bodies when you are uncomfortable with it. Others would love to see themselves represented in your art. Both are completely valid stances. My food for thought would be to consider what you said about mainstream vs. indie artist representation. It is absolutely necessary to have the mainstream increase the representation of trans and nonbinary individuals with positive, healthy portrayals. They deserve to be seen and validated. However, who in the mainstream is going to give us art with trans/nb characters in intimate situations? I’m not saying the fate of representation lies squarely on your shoulders, but that unfortunately it often takes representation at a smaller level to make the mainstream take notice and make changes for the better. If you ever do decide to include trans/nb characters within your art, I would recommend asking patrons who request it to be very specific about their request. What would make them feel most seen and valued? It may be clumsy at first, but giving them the chance to see themselves in a way they may not usually get the opportunity to could be a wonderful opportunity for growth and exploration for both for you, them, and us as individuals who may not identify similarly. We all want you to do what is best for you, Reaper. Do things in your own time. Don’t close yourself off to new ideas and possibilities, but don’t rush into anything you are not prepared for. All good things in time! (Sorry for the text wall! 😣)

Tyler Woodard

I just wanted to say that “raspberry” line is amazing and I may have to use it in the future. Hope you don’t mind! 🤣👍🏼

Tyler Woodard

I think it's a fair stance to take, as an independent artist, that at the end of the day, it's your choice to draw whatever you want to draw. People will either enjoy the content you produce or they won't, according to their personal taste, but you're in no way obligated to put their personal taste above your own. I will also say that I am a trans man, and while I don't presume to speak for anyone but myself, I more than understand your hesitance to draw trans bodies. I myself am often hesitant to engage with any kind of NSFW content that deals especially with trans m/m because, honestly, I DO often find it more fetishistic than representative (especially in cases where cis male characters in fandom are made trans rather than original trans characters). That's my take, and I'm not pretending that it's anything but subjective, but at the end of the day, it makes me uncomfortable. Now, the fact that it makes ME uncomfortable is not to say that no one should produce that kind of content. They're free to do it just as I'm free not to view it.

Hey! I’m going to agree with the many people who’ve said that it’s your right to set limits for yourself. Draw what you’re comfortable with! In terms of your art as a business, I knew what I signed up for when I joined your Patreon after following you on Tumblr for a long time. I wasn’t expecting you to draw f/f because that’s not what was in your portfolio of past work. If I wanted f/f, I’d be shopping at the wrong store. Similarly, if I were seeking art of transmen, I’d go looking for people who had already drawn that. If you decided to go in a very different artistic direction, I might change my mind. I don’t like cyclopses, but I didn’t unsubscribe due to one random cyclops showing up. If you changed to being a 100% cyclops artist, I’d be like, huh, this is no longer my bag, and move on. But then you’d have lots of cyclops-supporting-subscribers, so I’m hoping everything would be fine. In terms of the social-wokeness of your art, I also think you’re fine.

I am really happy you opened up a dialogue about this instead of pushing it aside and will happily continue to support you whatever you choose with this :)

Rizzo Dulce

I’m a trans man and I’ve been a patron of yours for a while. I respect your choice in choosing what you want to draw, however this feedback brings up a good point. Why does m/m have to always include penises? I understand it’s been the way of things but idk. Times are changing and we have the ability to change with them and be the change. There are a lot of artists who manage to include trans men in their m/m work without fetishising them. (Feix Deon is the first person who comes to mind) plus I think there are ways to do it that show you are serious about doing it right, like asking for references or input from trans men. And even if you make mistakes at least you’re trying.

Rizzo Dulce

i think it's important to listen to your audience and especially the marginalized voices in your audience. but, at the end of the day, this is your platform to draw what you want. if there are other artists who draw f/f and trans nsfw content, they should go support those artists.

simrell

I initially was going to write a lot more, but realized many others before me have already done a great job of expressing it for me, so here's the nutshell version: There's a massive difference between fetishizing and having limits. Every artist gets to set their own limits, no artist has to explain or justify them (even with commissions, an artist has the right to say, "I won't depict that"). Your Patreon account is no bait-and-switch; limits & content expectations are clearly communicated (and I'm enjoying the hell out of it ^_^) .

Aunt Kwan

Just stating my support. Please keep doing what makes YOU happy. I’m constantly impressed and humbled by your hard work and sensitivity. Thank you for being a wonderful person and brilliant artist.

ro_hum

I think you should do whatever you're comfortable with, especially when you know most people are paying for mostly m/m art, or just your art in general (me! Since I've been following you since the early 2010s). Should we push ourselves PRIVATELY to improve our art? Hell ye!!! Should we be making profit on marginalized cultures/characters that we feel uncomfortable with or don't have a knowledge or just doing it because people want that? I don't think that would be any more ethically right than refusing to draw something just because you hate it (I'm like, thinking of refusing to draw a white character couples with a POC because of racism). However, I do think Kassandra from AC:Odyssey pegging men is right up your alley?? But I don't request it because it's not in your wheelhouse :)

Annika

hi! i don’t usually comment on stuff but i wanted to lend my voice here. i’ve been following your art for ages (i actually remember seeing your stuff on deviantart eons ago lol and then finding your stuff years later and being amazed at the evolution). i actually work in trans education/ inclusion and also follow lots of artists (and see drama that follows them) so here’s my thoughts: first of all i want to say that seeing the “no f/f, no het, no trans” etc rules every month gave me a bit of pause, but because you’re always so vocally considerate about many things i’ve figured you had your own reasons. i don’t think artists should be forced to make themselves vulnerable to justify their boundaries around subject matter. i agree with a lot of what you’ve laid out here (especially re: women’s bodies already being overly sexualized in just about every context) but i will say one thing. the idea of leaving trans people to be depicted only by “experts” (be they trans people or people who have done x number of research) doesn’t necessarily help to normalize trans existence. i’m a non-binary person who’s had a mastectomy and i would really REALLY love to see bodies like mine depicted both by indie artists and in the mainstream. and i know that there are many other trans people for whom that would trigger dysphoria, but that said i think you do such a wonderful job with content warnings that i think that issue would be easily avoided. and i think that there is a line between saying trans bodies are sexy in the way that any other body is sexy and fetishizing trans bodies, and you’ve already made it clear how aware you are of that line! all that said, it’s not your responsibility as an independent artist to do this work and i wouldn’t fault you for choosing to continue working in the way you have been. but again, it feels very validating to see weird bodies like mine depicted in scenarios where it’s not even acknowledged as being strange, and at this point i would be open to trusting you with that. so anyway i hope this all makes sense and i’m happy to clarify any time!

Kait Sanchez

Im not sure if this was mentioned. I appreciate everyone's thought out comments, but theyre a little long for me to comb through atm. I follow lots of artists for different things because different people like to draw different things. I love what you do! Youre great at it, if I want other content I simply check out other artists who specialize in it. In that note Coey Kuhn is another creator I follow on this platform with a ton of f/f, trans and monster nsfw. If anyone wants that type of content for sure check then out!!

CaanE

Omg FF is doing god's work I swear xD I adorreee all the representation there without it crossing into gross territory😍

Neonbat

I’m glad you’re so open and honest with us and I’m really grateful. You have every right to decide what content you make and if you aren’t comfortable with something then don’t do it. I love your content and am just glad to be able to enjoy it. Yes I’m transmasc and would love to see you do some art of characters as trans but it is up to you. I personally almost crave non-fetishy art about transmasc people that is sexual but still artistic. I don’t know why but i think it’s just something that would help me with some of my body issues. But that doesn’t mean you need to make it. You are someone who is graciously taking our opinions/ideas and making us freaking awesome art. You deserve to make whatever you want. Please don’t feel bad for choosing what you will and won’t do. You’re perfectly fine to set boundaries and to stick by them. ❤️❤️

BeanBoi

It’s so important how the artists depict the trans people to me. Because sometimes it’s all about them being this “unicorn” and that’s where it’s disgusting to me. If it’s clean and casual and it’s not all about them being trans is where I’m cool with it. If I’m being honest tho most of the art I’ve seen has been gross and fetishy so I can’t really say I’ve seen any that don’t give me the gross feels.

BeanBoi

I definitely agree with the whole trans guy thing. As a transmasc person too I get kind of sad when there isn’t any representation (is that weird?). And hey I would love some trans art from Reaper but I definitely don’t mind Reaper not doing the art if they’re not comfy with it.

BeanBoi

I agree with every single paragraph up there! You have expressed all the nuances involved in this subject, and I commend you for that. For what it's worth, you can always use your platform to give shout-outs to other porn artists who do draw trans porn I suppose, only if you want to though. Filthy Figments comes to mind immediately, highly recommended you guys!

You have every right to establish your own boundaries and anybody who pushes against those lines is damn near an abuser.

E Kinsey

Yet another transmasculine individual weighing in here to say you're doing just fine. And I agree - you should be very wary of drawing trans smut as a cis individual. There's a lot of conflicting opinions about gender and sexuality within the trans community. As such, no matter what you do you are likely to piss *someone* off. So I completely understand staying hands-off, especially on a subject as touchy as porn - I *am* trans and I wouldn't want to poke that hornet's nest. I do believe that creators employing conscious diversity is important, and I think you are already doing so to good effect. It's much appreciated. You don't need to do this other thing that you are justifiably uncomfortable with as well.

V as in Victor

I'm going to try to read this without reading the other responses, so I don't let the nerves get to me, but I feel like there's definitely some valid self reflection there. (Edit because I entered too soon) Fandom has been debating the fetishism inherent in certain trends—mlm being one of them. There's a much higher rate of slash fiction and art in fandom spaces than others, partly, as you say, because there some of the only spaces in which we can create them. There's also a certain amount of internalized misogyny involved. Fandom has a large demographic of women creators, and there's a lot of baggage that gets dragged into the discussion because of that. I know personally it took me a long time to feel comfortable with female bodies in a sexual manner, despite being queer. Even now, unless it's femdom, I have a hard time with it. There's been ton of conversations about this, specifically for fandom. Does that mean that people _need_ to draw something they don't feel comfortable with? No, I don't believe so. Forcing the issue is unlikely to help anything. And you dont see male artists get accused of only drawing straight or lesbian porn. Porn made for a female gaze, or even just made by queer and feminine folk, gets policed to a much higher extent. So on one hand, it's a conversation that is good to have, because being aware of our own biases and where they come from is good. But also, I feel like a lot of this feeling of "fetishism" comes from it's own place of ignorance, and morale policing of queer and feminine spaces. As to the trans aspect, I feel a little more comfortable talking about that (I'm not a cis gay man, so I can't really say what level of fetishism of mlm is ok), because, it's one of those things that's going to be very difficult to get right. Everyone has a different comfort level and level of dysphoria (I for example, get excited seeing characters with surgery scars or binders, but uncomfortable with body types that look like mine + female genitalia). I'd love to see you dip your toes into trying your hand at it, but I also understand the fear of failure. At the end of the day, porn is porn, and there's always going to be some aspect that is "problematic". Just try your best, and keep listening. Also, as a certified monster fucker + dysphoric mess, I can attest to playing with monster fucking dynamics helps a lot. Creating a female monster that was so far removed from my idea of self helped me get over a lot of issues

Rea

1) You were way nicer in your post than I would've been. 2) M/m artists have been accused of fetishizing gay men since the 90's (which was when I first encountered this criticism). 3) Not every artist has to draw everything. I wouldn't feel guilty in the least for drawing what you want to draw. You always have that right. If they were a commissioner who wanted you to draw something outside of your comfort zone you'd be fully within your rights to refuse the commission. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

Tammy Lee

First of all—you are the artist. This is YOUR art. You draw what you draw best and are most comfortable with and that is why you have fans and supporters. My teenage son has mentioned fetishizing gay men to me regarding my yaoi collection. But he’s 15 and has neither my perspective nor my experience. It CAN be a complex issue for some. But it has a straightforward, simple answer: draw what you are comfortable with and support patrons who draw what you want to see. I switch my support around to many artists depending on what I want to see with my limited Patreon budget. You are one one my long-term projects because you write amazing stuff—the Art is good, the stories are varied and I appreciate your work and perspective.

LPett

Why would anyone want to push someone out of their creative comfort zone to prove some point? It’s your space/art/preference? Are we no longer entitled to own our own preferences? I only publish what appeals to me and interests me. Mostly because of the amount of time I devote to it. If I’m going to sweat over some dicks, they’re gonna be dicks I like!

Sharon Barela

I respect you so much for explaining this and putting this out there. I also want to thank you personally for being respectful towards your fans and especially towards trans people. You have no idea how much that means to me. ❤ I don't feel like you fetishize with what you like and/or draw. You do beautiful work and such a wonderful job bringing the characters to life. And honestly I agree with you on m/m about seeing woman overly sexualized so much. I think I've gotten sick of it I avoid a lot of stuff because of it.

I believe it's already been said, but to give my support, I feel that you should continue to draw what interests you and what inspires you. I understand that there are people who are frustrated for not being able to find art that speaks to them or appeals to their interests, but they should not be coming into a space where the artist and/or creator has clear and respectful outlines of what they feel comfortable with and then cry foul. These are also fickle topics where with the best intentions put forth, derision and outrage could manifest because subject A was taken the wrong way or aspect B was not researched properly and then a whole lot of how dare you. I feel like perhaps this happens in some amount anyway when you explore a new fandom or introduce a new kink. That for serious or fun, there are going to be people who remain unhappy and take it personally, when all you're doing is going about your craft and doing your best. There are those of us who love it above and beyond and hope you never change (unless it's to try out things in your own time and at your own discretion). I hope some of this came across properly.

Nowanuno

I don't think it's "fetishizing", your lines for what you are or aren't comfortible with drawing are your own.

Anxiety Goblin

PERSONALLY, speaking only for myself, I'm a bi trans man who is very uncomfortable seeing trans men characters in porn/smut. Dysphoria is different for everyone of course and representation does matter a lot to a good amount of people, but in NSFW contexts seeing other trans men just increases my own dysphoria. I really like terato/monster art for some of the same reasons you mentioned, you can still have outside the norm/alternative bodies but they don't trigger my dysphoria. Again that's me personally and my own dysphoria, everyone is different. A lot of trans NSFW art legitimately comes across as fetishizing to me, m/m art drawn by women doesn't. I've seen a lot of that kinda sentiment in the "anti-fujoshi" crowd, but I don't understand it. You find men attractive, so you draw them. I don't think there should be any kind of pressure on artists to create any work that they're uncomfortable with or even just not enthusiastic about. You shouldn't have to feel pressured to draw certain things just for inclusivity points. I'd much rather stuff like that be drawn by an artist who really enjoys it than someone who feels like they're required to, anyway.

You ABSOLUTELY don't have to draw something that makes you uncomfortable. I repeat. DO NOT DRAW THINGS THAT DOESEN'T SIT WELL WITH YOU, because THAT is an injustice that you do to yourself and your work. Don't feel obligated to draw stuff that doesn't inspire you just because we are paying to see your art. I'm more than happy to donate my money to a talented artist like you because with that you'll be able to express your art however you want. If I forced your hand on the choices you make the primary victim of this wuold be your art. Sorry if I'm a little to harsh on this but the idea to force someone to do something against their will is beyond my comprehension. I understand that someone can be frustrated by not being picked but you can't impose your opinion on someone else. We are patrons and the word patron literally means protector we are protectors of your work, your art and consequently your freedom of expression.

Ether Z

Piggybacking on what everyone else has said, I feel that you've been very respectful and consistent in why you won't tread certain waters. At the same time, I can also understand people feeling some type of way about an artist they like not creating certain content. I hope that this person (and everyone else) is able to find what they need and that you continue doing what you like and what you're comfortable with.

SailorSuu

It always just…really grinds my gears when someone feels as though it’s their place to call an artist out for not drawing enough of X, Y, or Z. Not that this (ex)patron was doing so in an aggressive or confrontational way, of course. But it definitely feels snarky and passive-aggressive to me, haha. But..I don’t think any artist should be under obligation to draw content they either aren’t interested in or aren’t comfortable drawing for whatever reason. ( i.e. your hesitance to draw NSFW content involving transfolk is completely valid. I’m a transman myself that would much rather consume and create content with cismale characters in it, so honestly, just not being interested in drawing trans bodies is valid enough of a reason for me, haha. ) Forcing someone to create things they aren’t interested in feels really, I dunno, wrong…? It is unfair to approach a m/m artist and demand they make f/f content, or to approach an artist who doesn’t feel comfortable drawing NSFW art of trans characters and guilt trip them into doing so. There are a lot of artists out there creating f/f and trans content, find and support them too! Or if it’s that important to you, then create the art you want to see. I guess… I just think, if someone barged in on an artist who draws exclusively female bodied/trans/nb characters and DEMAND they draw dicks/cismen when they aren’t interested in it, you know there would be hell to pay. It’s unfortunate that no matter what you do, there is always going to be someone that is upset or unsatisfied. :( Like you said, you started Patreon with the intent to draw the things *you* wanted to draw. We aren’t here as clients or commissioners, we’re here as patrons and supporters of you as an artist, and *your* work, and I feel a lot of people forget they aren’t entitled to dictate what an artist creates or at what pace. It’s fine and all to make requests or suggestions, but to respect the artist’s decision to take or leave said requests/suggestions. IONNO. I’ve been a long time follower of your art for years (but only recent patron), I just want you to keep on making art you enjoy and do whatever makes you happiest! <3

Draw what you’re comfortable with drawing. You’re allowed to have boundaries on what you want to put into the world. Especially since the art in question is *not a commission* and you did not hide this beforehand. I think you’re specialized in what you produce and that’s fine. Other needs can be met elsewhere and your style is lovely. While your explanation is lovely, well thought and meaningful, I’ve frequently told my friends who art - no is a complete sentence. You’re allowed boundaries. 💜

I mean...here's the thing - you state clearly that's not your bag. You're not interested in drawing F/F - that's not the same as like "I refuse to draw diverse bodies, or people". It's not your bag. As a small creator, part of the Patreon, at least for me, is giving some dollars so you can create work that you like and feel like your work is valued and rewarded. If I commissioned you, that would be different. The purpose is different. You aren't beholden to create our each individual request. Sure, I'd love to see Villanelle or a femswap Will and Hanni, but there are other content creators who want that too. Why should I twist your arm to make you create that? That's not your jam. Hell it's not even your raspberry. In broader terms, of course I think content creators should be inclusive, but no one person can or must do everything. One person cannot bear the burden of diversity and inclusivity - it's a wide scope issue. It's got to be coming from all different content creators, and people in the industry as well as small time folk, and to say, "Person A does X, and Y, but they don't do Z, and I want Z," the answer has to be, ok, well, I'm sure you can find Z elsewhere. Roxanne Gay's opening monologue of Bad Feminist puts it perfectly, that there can be no perfect feminist. A person is going to fuck up, and be human, and putting someone on a pedestal is just to prepare to knock them down. It's impossible to do everything right, and it's impossible to cater to everyone.

I don't understand people sometimes and their accusations on some belief that if an artist doesnt draw something they are definately hold some negative opinions about it. It's like when someone doesnt draw and post enough diverse characters they are accused of being rascist. Ugh. An artist draws what they feel most interested in. No one can ever force you to draw anything you don't want to. Heck. This person sounds petty. They didn't get what they want so they decided to run their mouth in order to make you panic and cater to their needs. Very manipulative really and definitely not a good patreon. I personally, just love looking at your artwork and stories. They're very beautiful, delicate, and soft. It's also very noticeable how you have an interest in how you draw by the amount of care and detail you put it. Drawing stuff that don't interest you as an artist is a chore. I didn't randomly decide to be a patreon to be honest. Ixm a patreon because I specifically love what you create. Other than that I don't know what else to say. Just do what you do. Don't let some rascal like that sway you. They need to pack their bags and skedaddle out of here. How presumptuous of them really. Some people really have no shame on the internet but then have no face to say it upfront. (╯°Д°）╯︵/(.□ . \) Gosh. Now I'm getting shy in typing too much. Till then.

As far as you not doing F/F, I assume it’s the same reason I, and a lot of wlw, don’t search lesbian porn. Cause we’ve all been inundated since birth with the hyper sexualization of women. Drawing f/f to some might feel like it is fetishizing an already deeply fetishized interaction, even if it is done in a super sweet and romantic way. If it’s just that you don’t have an interest in it, then you don’t. Cool. Forcing yourself to draw things you have no interest in is the quickest way to make you hate it and hate drawing. So don’t force yourself. Do what will keep you happy. Put yourself before us, because you are the one that is drawing this stuff and you are the one that is supporting yourself with this like you want. Keep yourself happy (as long as it’s not like how Hannibal does). And as far as drawing trans people, that’s a decision I wholeheartedly respect. It is a very delicate subject and can very easily be done very wrong. It’s also (and be assured I say this with so much love) not your subject. Unless it is, I DONT KNOW YOUR LIFE! XD sorry. What I mean is, trans people should be first and foremost be drawn, written, and portrayed by trans people because trans people know the subject best and they know exactly what their community needs. Unless you are working closely with a trans person, it’s probably a good idea to step away and say, I’m not the best person to be drawing a character whose experiences and identity I can’t properly bring to life. By stepping away and saying that you aren’t prepared for drawing something that needs a lot of understanding to avoid the nasty stereotypes and historically harmful nuances media and society has beaten into us, I feel that’s a move that shows respect towards trans people.

Personally, I think that you’re reluctance/refusal to draw things your not comfortable with is perfectly understandable! Particularly because you as a person have valid reasons for not treading these waters AND you’ve been open about pushing your boundaries and trying new things. As a queer lady, I was originally disappointed that f/f nsfw was off the table—but I got over it really quickly because that is a kind of art need that I can fill elsewhere! There’s no reason to kick and scream when you don’t cater to every patrons likes and desires, it’s your space to be creative: we just like your art so we pay for the privilege to see it early and with FREQUENT updates. Ultimately, your choice in art is not a reflection of bigotry or hatred, just caution, respect, and a nice coating of personal taste. If you DO one day decide to break out of these rules, or push them a little, I’ll be here cheering you on. But in the meantime, you can catch my ass excitedly looking forward to every doodle day and comic update. TL:DR—You’re good boo, go at your own pace. You’re not hurting me as a queer woman and I don’t think you’re hurting the trans communities (if the other comments are anything to go by). Love you and your art. ❤️❤️❤️

Megan Noone

I would imagine that those who are your patrons would be familiar with the work you've done for years. Of course I don't want to criticize someone for wanting something different from a favorite artist. Nevertheless, you seem to have cultivated a specific brand, which includes drawing things that you're comfortable with. Personally, if I'm in the mood for smut that isn't something you normally draw, I'll look at another artist's work.

**if you ever choose to because again, I totally think it's your choice what you're comfortable drawing 💕

I think as a creator, you definitely get to decide what you want to create. We come here to enjoy your creations and maybe inspire some, and that's great for us too! I don't personally see that as fetishistic. I also think it would be really cool to see some trans representation in your art style BECAUSE you take such care with the characters. I agree that it would be best to get some advice or inspiration from trans artists/consumers so that you (and we!) can learn the respectful boundaries of their depictions. :)

Also yeah, admitting that you don't know how to responsibly draw something is better than the alternative. If trans m/m is something you're wanting to do, your fanbase can almost certainly help you with pointers. But if not, you get to have your limits, especially for paid work.

Bitty Dragon

Fuck, I forgot on mobile you can’t have different paragraphs by hitting enter bc it posts. ANYWAY, I think fans and consumers of creators forget a creator needs boundaries like any other person bc creators are people. You are an adult at this point in your life and Patreon is not school that’s ordering you to draw for an evaluation. I mean, in a way it is, but my point stands and my point is this: You are in control of what you draw and making yourself happy. You have long ago decided to draw what you feel comfortable with and create a hard boundary that excludes things that make you unhappy or uncomfortable in some way. This allows you to keep enjoying art and drawing and creating (and it also weeds out the people that will end up upsetting you a lot more if you tried to keep them around by catering to their wants). I think some people don’t like those boundaries and don’t think a creator should have those boundaries so that they can pressure a creator into making what they want. That’s not respectful and it’s certainly not keeping in mind that the artist is a human being, not a machine. You don’t want to draw f/f? Cool. That’s your boundary, that’s the term you set down in order to keep yourself pumped and interested in what you do. It’s to keep yourself motivated to keep this gift of Doodle Days to us going. You are giving in this (business and fan) relationship, and like anything other relationship, the other side (us) needs to give as well. In this case, our giving is not asking you to do things you don’t want to do or are uncomfortable with. That’s pretty even and fair.

I think the two big points here (first, that artists shouldn't be forced to draw things they aren't comfortable with or don't feel equipped to handle respectfully; second, that criticisms about representation should be made towards industries and publishers, not artists with limited reach) are both great ones. I respect your thinking here and think it was really well stated. I think a lot about how most places in the world (especially the US) are "right to work" and how terrifying that is. The ability of an employer to fire someone without cause or warning isn't alright, and it's not alright for patrons to feel like they can do the same with artists, demand a particular kind of content that the artist might not want to handle. Thanks for taking the time to explain how you feel and why! The transparency you offer isn't required, but it is appreciated.

As a trans guy who enjoys all kinds of content, including f/f, I completely agree with everything you've said. Of course, I can only speak for myself personally, but whilst I would love to see more trans representation, I'd want that to come from someone who feels equipped to do so. And as you said, that's a criticism that needs addressing in the mainstream, where the impact can really be felt and where a trans person can be brought on board to consult if there isn't already at least one involved. Of course, this isn't meant to invalidate the anon, they should have their opinion. More to speak to the fact that I'm personally comfortable with your reasoning and don't read the lack of trans content in a negative way.

TigerPrawn

As far as I'm concerned this is a shop. If someone doesn't like what's on offer, they can take their custom somewhere else, though I think it will puzzle them to find another vendor with goods of this quality. What's the point of you doing work which you'll find creatively and emotionally taxing, to appease a very small segment of your customers?

Purrrn

you've been nothing but straightforward about what you'll draw right from the beginning, and you're under no obligation to anyone to draw anything you dont want to.

This is a very complex subject and I think it really ties to your own preferences and artistic form of expression. I’m in a f/f relationship. There are a lot of artists that draw f/f, trans m/m and het sex and romance. Its not on you to create content that you don’t feel comfortable representing. You ARE comfortable with portraying monster and male bodies and I think that you do so beautifully. The word fetish is thrown around a lot these days. Its made to sound inherently negative. I don’t think there’s anything wrong with having a fetish as long as it is not harming others without their consent. If there’s one thing I really truly love about your storytelling and comics, its that you are very thoughtful about your work, in storytelling and rendering. You give even your side characters personality and substance. I think that is meaningful and don’t feel rushed to portray characterization just because it is underrepresented in commercial media. There are SO many things that fall under the umbrella of marginalized that its too broad of a task for any artist. TLDR: I think you should do you, and explore things when you feel ready, if ever!

I hope my text wall makes sense, it's such a brick of words

Bitty Dragon

One of the problems is that what seems fetishizing to one guy will feel affirming and good to another. What one guy feels comfortable with - especially coming from an artist who is outside the community - is gonna be different from what another guy feels comfortable with. For example, many trans men experience intense dysphoria about their chests and genitals and don't want to see art of trans men being touched in those places or having those parts visible/focused on in art, especially not if the trans men being depicted are bottoming. Other trans men feel connected with their chests and genitals and want more art of trans guys interacting with those parts. The other problem is that there are themes across multiple pieces which may be fetishizing in addition to having specific depictions that are fetishizing. For example, a cis person who only draws trans men if they're bottoming or having their chests touched would seem fetishizing to me, but someone drawing a single image of that in a mix of depictions of other types of sexual interaction would not seem fetishizing. And finally, any images which heavily emphasize pre-surgical chests and/or zero in on a trans person's genitals to emphasize how different they are from a cis person's will probably come off as fetishizing when coming from an artist who isn't themselves a trans guy.

Bitty Dragon

I think it's important that you draw what makes you feel comfortable. If someone doesn't like the rules you've set up in your little corner of the internet, then why on earth are they here? If I'm honest, I don't actually share many of your ships, or some of the kinks that you enjoy, but I'm not going to challenge you on it, I'm here for my own reasons: I love your art, and I respect your choices. If I don't like the content of something, I simply won't view it. tldr: don't change a thing, we're still here because we like what you do!

もりモリ

Speaking as a trans man(but only speaking for myself), I’m not bothered by your stance? If anything, I think it’s reasonable that you don’t feel comfortable portraying something you’re not wholly informed about. Far too often we do see cis gendered individuals try to include us in their erotic works and it does come across as fetish work or even mean-spirited in some cases. So avoiding doing harm by avoiding it entirely is really the better option, I think. And honestly, didn’t we all come here for the m/m content? You’ve never been shy about what your content is on tumblr or even gaia before so why the complaints now? :/

Erik

I completely understand and free with you on your stances. It’s easy to say this person was upset you wouldn’t draw what they wanted and so said that to hurt you, but it’s good to have these conversations instead of avoiding them so that those who aren’t creators themselves but do support creators know boundaries.

It's totally valid not to want to draw f/f! I don't write f/f as a fic writer because it's just not my interest. I will say I'd LOVE to see more transmasc in this kind of style because (I'm biased here being transmasc haha) hell transguy are hot! Why not have porn? I think artists NOT creating content like with cis guys is actually more harmful because it feels like being treated with kid gloves. Of you're worried about of something is offensive or squicky I'd be happy to lend my voice :) I am always up for being open and frank about this stuff as a trans person heavy into being super open about sexuality. I think there is acceptable fetishizing that isn't harmful versus the gross icky kind. Also sorry for the lack of spaces and typos my phone is being a pain. Edit: also forgot to mention I am very, very gay 😂

Neonbat

This looked like a much shorter post in the preview window... Sorry for the wall of text~

Reapersun