Pride, Shame & Everything in Between

A Queer Creative's Primer On Online Love & Hate

Welcome to the wild world of being a queer creative online! Buckle up for a ride filled with pride, a bit of shame, and a whole lot of everything in between.

So, you've poured your heart and soul into your art and design – it's like your creative baby. You hit that "share" button, and boom, it's out there in the digital universe. It's a little nerve-wracking, but hey, it's also a massive middle finger to anyone trying to put you in a box.

Putting your work out there as a queer creative is like saying, "This is me, deal with it!" And guess what? Most people online cheer you on. The love and support are like virtual hugs from your online nears, dears, and queers.

It's heartwarming to see how your work resonates with people who get it, who've been there, and who appreciate your unique perspective.

But, of course, there's usually at least one person (sometimes more) who’s got nothing better than to spread their nasty brand of negativity around the interwebs.

Haters. AKA Trolls. Yeah, they're far from imaginary or magical. Though they do seem to live in caves and/or were raised by blood-thirsty wild animals.

I do my best not to let them ruin my creative parade.

The "block" button is a useful tool. However, one too many rounds of Whack-A-Troll can leave a bad taste in your mouth. So it’s important to protect your creativity and mental health as much as possible.

According to some surfers I follow, this online journey is a bit like riding waves. There are highs and lows, moments of sheer pride, and a twinge of regret and shame….for sometimes the urge to engage and respond to the negativity is too strong. But that's what makes it an adventure.

The key is to keep riding those positive vibes and focusing on the lovers. Their caring comments and likes are virtual hugs that can keep you going, and remind you that you and your work matter.

Being a queer creative online is about more than just making cool stuff. It's about finding your tribe, celebrating who you are, and letting your "freak flag” and unique light shine.

In this ever-evolving digital world, your art has the power to break down barriers and change hearts. So, here's to riding the online wave – may your journey be filled with creativity, love, and just the right amount of troll-blocking sass.

Thanks for reading!
Clint

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AN LGBTQ+ CELEBRATION COLLECTION

Our PRIDE with Collide collection just got bigger and better with some new variations on classic designs.

From Gilbert Baker's Original 8-Color Rainbow Pride Flag (now in all-over prints galore) to the American Flag reimagined as the Trans Pride Flag, we’re hoping to help our extended LGBTQ+ family members around the world celebrate Pride around the world and back…in full-spectrum, inclusive colors.

• T-Shirts

• All-Over Prints

• Art Prints

• Bags + Packs

• Buttons + Patches

• Embroidered

• Flags

• Hats + Headwear

• Mugs + Drinkware

• Stickers

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NEWS + VIEWS

• 'THE BIGGEST ARTS PROJECT IN THE US': PST ART TO BRING DOZENS OF EXHIBITIONS TO LOS ANGELES AND SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA THIS SEPTEMBER (THE ART NEWSPAPER)

• HOW THE MET AND OTHER MAJOR US MUSEUMS ARE APPROACHING PROVENANCE RESEARCH (ARTNEWS)

• ST. VINCENT DEBUTS ALEX DA CORTE–DIRECTED MUSIC VIDEO INSPIRED BY GOYA
  (ARTNEWS)

• 'NOTHING TO BE EMBARRASSED ABOUT': HOW ASIAN AMERICANS TAKE PRIDE IN THEIR IDENTITIES (CNN)

• AN ICON TURNS 65: BARBIE’S CHANGING STYLE SHOWCASED IN LONDON EXHIBITION (THE GUARDIAN)

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