Creativity is an integral part of human nature. Some are courageous enough to look deep within their minds and souls to become creators. Every figment of imagination materialized and presented enrich our minds in conscious and subconscious levels. It is the fabric of humanity and culture.
Sometimes we get too caught up in discussions about what is creativity, what is art, and what holds value. Such discussions more than occasionally lead to strict definitions in an attempt to alienate or disqualify some types or forms, based on mostly prejudice. This is what is usually called “Gatekeeping”.
Being around in our space as well as in other cultural groups I have witnessed many types of gatekeeping which mostly resulted in fragmentation and decline of these communities.
In our community, some have suggested these categories below do not qualify as art, or have no value whatsoever;
Glitch Art
Trashart
Any PFP project
AI Powered Art
Digital Arts in general
Works minted on different chains
Works minted on personal contracts
GIFs
Video montages
Collages
Abstract Art
Generative Art
Photography
Interactive Art
These are only some of the generalizations I had the misfortune to hear. I’m sure the list goes on.
Having a distinct taste is something that should be welcomed. However, imposition of one’s own qualifications to a broader audience with insistence is not fruitful, often hurting the people whose creativity is being judged unfairly.
We should know the best as our efforts here are mostly misjudged by the broader world, who overwhelmingly sees it all as a scam, or an inferior culture at the very least.
This meme is dedicated to welcoming all forms of creativity and their appreciators, so that we can have a richer, more naturally evolving, and thriving culture.
This applies to larger constructs, and is not limited to art.
Because being ourselves transparently and confident is a right, that ultimately benefits all.
It is all about saying “KEEP THE GATE” to gatekeepers, cause we are going in.
And it is a glorious journey.
Some comments about the work:
There is an exciting, rainbow path lies ahead. It takes us from an unimaginative barren land to a better place. Yet there is a door with a camera attached. We don’t know who keeps the gate or up to which standards. Instructions on top of the camera are unclear, unfamiliar. In our digital world it is impossible to know that. The gate might be shut to some of us, and any of us. Maybe it is not the only way. We could also disregard the gate and go around it. Yet it takes courage to step on the wild desert plants and get back to the path.
This is a mere interpretation of mine. I would be “gatekeeping” if I assumed this as the only valid interpretation. A meme is what you see in it. Intentions never define the nature.
To a more inclusive community, with love.