Dear patrons! Some questions to you (+a poll)
Added 2022-11-03 13:25:02 +0000 UTCOctober rewards have just been sent out! Please check your PMs ^^ There were a lot of declined pledges this time so please message me if your payment goes through later - I'll send you a link! :)
And, like I said in the title, I've got some questions to you since my Patreon income has decreased for more than a 1/3 from September even though I have been working for 10-12 hours per day with no weekends. It makes me panic because I've got a few people depending on me... We have to be very economical, but I guess that a lot of people have such problems now: exit surveys mostly told me that people's "financial situation has changed" D:
But. Some people also marked that they "didn't receive the rewards mentioned in the tiers" or "the links were broken". But I'm sure that I always give my patrons at least everything what I promised or even more and I always ask to message me if there are any issues with the rewards! D: Did you ever had such a problem?... Some people also pointed that I "wasn't as active as they expected". Sadly I cannot work more than I already do physically, but maybe you'd like to see sketches and other wips?..
Maybe I should also try doing more than just illustrations/comics? (I mean to replace some of the current content with something else). Would you be interested in After Effects animations (animated illustrations) or should we maybe even start a simple visual novel project? Or do you have other ideas of what you'd like to see here?..
I also discovered how rapidly my "exclusive" artwork is leaked to the Internets :/ I guess I should develop some art protection so my patrons don't feel that they're paying for something that's not really exclusive!
And a poll! What would you like to see here? (multiple choices available) Also please leave a comment if you want me to improve my art or my Patreon page somehow :)
Comments
I think posting progress pictures while people are waiting for let's say the new monthly pinup just to give them a taste would be cool
s8nbone
2022-11-09 02:07:19 +0000 UTCThanks for letting us know. Honestly, I don't see why people would claim that you're too inactive, as that's patently untrue. With regards to the "links being broken" part, I can only imagine that they missed the time window to retreive the rewards. They are time limited if I recall correctly? Can't really fault you there, either, as leaving them online indefinitely just invites abuse, as I'm sad you've had to discover. From my end, I can only say positive things about my patronage. You've done your best to hold to your schedule under what I can only describe as severely difficult circumstances, and the quality of your work has been stellar throughout the board. For these reasons, I will definitely continue supporting you, keeping my fingers crossed that things will take a turn for the better for you before long. To add at least one suggestion: I've seen others post invites to livestreams of them working on a current project. Could be interesting, but I'm unsure how much effort that would be to set up.
Guruthos42
2022-11-04 20:28:55 +0000 UTCPersonally? Helga and Alissa are my favourites, Eugene's reward is what got me into your art originally and yiff and learn I really enjoyed 🙂
mbugle
2022-11-04 17:53:48 +0000 UTCThank you! And what characters you wanted to see more? :)
Iskra
2022-11-04 17:53:02 +0000 UTCI’m sorry to hear that your supporters are leaving; i can imagine it’s hard for many people who are suffering with money at the moment. I can only comment on what i feel about supporting you art, Your art has only gotten better since I started supporting you and it’s at a level now which is exceptional, the comics you have done since I’ve signed up have all been great, the stories have been good and the art is fantastic, your plan to go to multi panel comics is a great idea, many artists do that and they are very popular. The only thing I can say personally is I’m always disappointed when I don’t see my favourite characters, sometimes they won’t arrear in your art for a long time, and even though you are doing commission work and doing your pinups, some of your characters don’t really interest me, just a personal taste thing, I loved the idea of Helga being punished in a “mini-comic” but it may be a long time before we get to see any more art for it, some other artists use a character system where they start with a vote of all their characters and when the most popular character gets a pinup, then they vote for the next one without that character, it may take a while until every character is done but at least every character gets art eventually. I hope things get better for you because you are a great artist and your work deserves to be seen.
mbugle
2022-11-04 14:52:09 +0000 UTCOh, man, thinking about Krystal, Tawna, Lola, etc drawn by Iskra? Mmmmm.
Eddie Murphy
2022-11-04 14:24:12 +0000 UTCThank you! Yeah, those Google drive archives were created to make the tiers more valuable although it would be better to share them via Patreon… But it doesn’t have such a system yet sadly and putting everything just in the feed means even more piracy than now :c
Iskra
2022-11-04 05:28:34 +0000 UTCThat’s sad to hear :( I hope everything goes back to normal asap! And thank you very much, I’m so touched…
Iskra
2022-11-04 05:22:07 +0000 UTCdefinitely, your simplified art style (flat colors ) is already really good. I know shading and lighting is very time consuming. Even just line art of your wips is already impressive.
Pandorasbox92
2022-11-04 05:19:04 +0000 UTCI answered "other" because I'm mostly here for the ride and take whatever you create! :D
plague
2022-11-04 03:39:14 +0000 UTCI am sorry to hear about your decline in income, I hope that you are able to recover quickly. I wonder what can be done to attract new patrons? To be honest the "sending links" approach is cumbersome to users which, besides complaints about being broken, otherwise requires going offsite and downloading and opening which is annoying. I pretty much never see your arts in 4k because only low res is posted on patreon even on $5 tier. Maybe that is why some say "didn't receive the rewards mentioned in the tiers"? Also worth noting: the leaks will happen no matter what unfortunately, please don't make it harder for paying customers to view your art. I think patrons don't care so much about having exclusives and just want you to keep making beautiful art as much as possible.
James
2022-11-04 03:00:31 +0000 UTCI'm very sorry to hear this! The "financial situation has changed " is all too real, I've heard that from many people. I've been here for 2 years and I think you have done plenty! I dont understand the people complaining about lack of activity and broken links. Please dont push yourself too hard, you do so much already. I read one of the comments suggesting you share a little about yourself thats sounds great to me.
rockpaperpunch
2022-11-03 23:27:26 +0000 UTCI think you need to keep making illustrations and comics and go on at your own path, but I think it would be nice if you bring something new to content creation, maybe it could be sketches
Naked_SoNUshka
2022-11-03 23:24:33 +0000 UTCI guess I'm satisfied with what you've been giving us, I'm satisfied with the illustrations and comics. None of the additional things have any appeal to me. I was introduced to your art through leaked art on the interwebs and decided I liked it enough to become a Patron. I have never shared any of your work over the net, but I take it for granted that any commission I have from you could wind up on the internet. I am good with that.
Darwinskeeper
2022-11-03 23:21:00 +0000 UTCYou're my biggest inspiration and I wish so much I could give enough to match that... but finances are so unstable that my power got shut off yesterday, and reconnection fees ate my budget. I have to drop other pledges just to keep this one going :<
Vicki M.
2022-11-03 22:31:51 +0000 UTCMaybe doing some less time-consuming illustrations in-between would help increase output without increasing workload. But I personally love the detail you put into your works and it's impressive how many you manage a month.
Ormur
2022-11-03 22:26:41 +0000 UTCI am happy with the rewards of the silver tier :). If it help I can explain my position about patreon (sorry for quality of the english) : As I pledge to over artistes I try to keep a steady budget, so if I want to become a patreon of a new artist or upgrade my tier I ask myself if downgrading or un-subscribing elsewhere is an option. However, I have enjoyed freely for years the works of many who have been published (honestly for most) and I want to do my part. What I research is frequency : your rhythm is very good and even if half your posts were "only" sketches I would be happy. You have explain to be under heavy charge so I would not expect more (of course) What could make me pledge more : animation, even storyboard like I do upgrade to gold immediately. Visual novel is a good idea too and as I like your "what's next?" poll, If the creation is interactive it's a great motivation to augment my participation. Over comment have bring the subject so : yes I do like NSFW, not mandatory but I can't deny it's lovely :3 Finally I really like your work, thank you for the dedication and the quality of thoses pictures. I hope you will get through those hard times and I would be glad to help.
Alex
2022-11-03 22:14:37 +0000 UTCNot gonna lie, knowing a bit more about the artist you love certainly doesn’t hurt, like for example one artist who I think does a good job of sharing filler content that’s actually interesting is Feretta, he does some general stuff about his life and recently has been giving updates about his house renovation project. My point is that knowing you as more than a alias and pfp, adds a great deal of depth to your work and how I view it. Cannot speak for everyone else but that’s my 2 cents.
Jackson triggs
2022-11-03 21:34:08 +0000 UTCYou know, I think animating illustrations you mentioned would be a great idea. And yes, you should definitely consider art protection.
NakedSunFlower
2022-11-03 20:55:53 +0000 UTCyou do I already find a lot of arts with a graphic style that sets you apart and I love it. I don't see how you could do more arts without being exhausted or still "prisoned" because you have to live next door. for the art leaks, fortunately not all of them are broadcast, and as a subscriber I am happy to know that your creations are intended for me and other subscribers in priority, a way of feeling a little privileged: ) I would love to see animations and sketches in progress but as I find that it is already a lot of what you are doing, it would be necessary to remove a few things on one side to put one on the other. the decision is yours and whatever you decide, I know that I will like your work, your girls, the shapes, the features, in short, everything. keep it up and above all take care of yourself.
Dimitri
2022-11-03 20:40:46 +0000 UTCI don't think anything's wrong with anything on your end, just that a lot of people's situation has changed. Sadly, since art is not my main source of income, I can't really bestow any wisdom in this area. And I don't know if it's worth worrying about paid content getting leaked. It does, but I don't think it impacts your earnings all that much: if people want it enough, they'll find a way to get it... unless you make it really obtuse... but then you risk punishing paying patrons as a result. I suppose an idea would be to so some more faster pictures, like sketches, sometimes increased volume gets results. Perhaps could dip a bit more into popular characters too... fanart does drive traffic quite a bit.
Mancoin
2022-11-03 20:15:33 +0000 UTCThanks a lot, Box ^^ That’s a huge range of ideas! And I’m actually planning a tiny sfw comic/illustration sequence with my characters but I don’t know how to get time for that! I guess I’ll simplify the style and make accents on the emotions/story. Also that’s a good idea to make some kind of commissions for Patrons only! ^^
Iskra
2022-11-03 19:42:23 +0000 UTCYes, I think Patreon alone is an inconsistent source of income. I hope you have the opportunity to build up several pillars.
Stratilz
2022-11-03 19:25:58 +0000 UTCAs someone who has been doing art on the side their entire life, as well as learning digital art, I have a high appreciation for art. I find it truly impressive on how fast you put out art and yet still keep it in good quality. That takes a lot of skill. I do really like the recent idea of pin ups of us allowing to vote on the outcome. Now in terms of my thoughts and ideas. If it were possible I would love to see more art from you (your own ideas) oppose from other commissioners. Also I d wish you opened up more commission slots for patreons every few months for flat color pieces. Kind of like you've done in the past. (but of course that depends on how much free time you have). Another cool idea would be a novel/comic (SFW). I'd pay good money for a book of a well put together story, especially with your art style, Doesn't have to be yiff necessarily. Posting time lapse of you art would be really cool, I want to see your thought process and how your art is created. Art stream would be an awesome way to interact with your audience. Maybe posting tutorials on how to draw furries, id pay a premium for that as well. I also wouldn't mind seeing some more SFW stuff to be honest (ex: cute pin ups of girls in summer dresses). Don't get me wrong id like a good yiff every now and then. As far as thougths and Ideas, that's all I can think of for now. In the end, do what works best for you. I will always be here to support you.
Pandorasbox92
2022-11-03 18:53:04 +0000 UTCThank you for such a detailed comment! And yes, the energy/fuel costs increase is drastic! 😰 Life is rapidly getting more and more expensive everywhere sadly… I even wish I could do anything more real-life-oriented than furry art these times haha ^^
Iskra
2022-11-03 18:42:24 +0000 UTCRegarding reward issues: I've been a patreon since March and have never had any problems with any rewards since then. Regarding canceled memberships: I think when in doubt you can expect "I have a problem with the rewards, please help me" from everyone... But maybe some people don't understand "that Google Drive thing" either? >P I can understand that many people cancel their membership with you because of their financial situation, for some people I know the heating costs alone have increased from 100 to 300 euros MONTHLY. Fuel costs and inflation not yet included... We all have to reset our priorities now. Regarding leaks: Would that happen less if you lowered the web resolution? Nobody wants to leak pictures in 480p :P And if someone really leaks the archives, they have to subscribe to you monthly, because your archives are only available monthly/on request. But I don't think there is THE solution...welcome to the Internet ^^ Finally something positive: I am very satisfied with what you offer me as a Patreon, I see no reason to complain or even cancel my membership and I dont need any changes.
Stratilz
2022-11-03 17:53:54 +0000 UTCFrom my year long experience here I never had a problem. I get what I payed for, I get it guaranteed and I get enough per month. *removing pink glasses* But leaks probably can be a factor, next to the crisis. There is a pretty well operating patreon leak website for example. Other than that I know from experience sex sells. Everyone likes porn. Maybe that could be a solution.
Megadead
2022-11-03 17:40:30 +0000 UTCOh! See, I didn't even know English wasn't your first language :-P I imagine you've mentioned that before and I just missed it, sorry for that. What is your first language, if you don't mind me asking? I definitely understand the anxiety of being watched, I hate being the center of attention, so that's completely fair! I hope adding little bits in posts helps with engaging people, though :-)
Eddie Murphy
2022-11-03 17:16:23 +0000 UTCMhm, will try if I have any :)
Iskra
2022-11-03 17:09:43 +0000 UTCSadly I can’t speak English by voice, it’s yet to difficult although I attended courses not so long ago ^^’ also people watching me doing anything makes me so nervous haha 😅 But adding more relation to the posts is a good idea, I’ll try that! :)
Iskra
2022-11-03 17:08:48 +0000 UTCmore cute sexy girls in pinups would be great
sidorovich
2022-11-03 17:07:37 +0000 UTCI cannot ask for more than that :-) As for connections, there are a couple of ways I can think of to go about it. One would be an art stream where people could write in and interact with you. I've been on a few streams where the artist is on voice and people write in and the artist talks/answers. Another way would be to drop relevant tidbits when you post art, for instance, if a piece you are posting includes something that relates to or interests you, talk about that. When you post something that includes a specific type of content, i.e. a kink or sexual orientation or gender (trans/futa), etc tell us what you like or don't like about it. That might be a good way to go about it as people can ignore it if they don't care and just focus on the art. Thoughts?
Eddie Murphy
2022-11-03 16:41:07 +0000 UTCPersonally haven't had any issues myself and have always been thrilled and impressed by your work! Terribly sorry to hear about the situation. 😔
Cody J
2022-11-03 16:35:49 +0000 UTC:c its really difficult for me to give advice or to vote because I have liked all your art.
Duster
2022-11-03 16:23:08 +0000 UTCWell, not so much WIPs, but maybe ideas or alternates that did not become fully rendered works. I value these things almost as much as finished works.
DSG
2022-11-03 15:52:17 +0000 UTCThank you very much, your words are very inspiring! Hmm, I’ll consider doing speed painting if my laptop has enough power for such long vids :)
Iskra
2022-11-03 15:46:46 +0000 UTCI believe what you do is enough, but to make it appear like more, perhaps a WIP or sketch every so often. It is work you're already doing in the process to the final product so it shouldn't add much more time or stress.
Alex J Waddington
2022-11-03 15:46:29 +0000 UTCFxF stuff is fine and FxFutanari is also ok, I’ll consider that ^^ And hmm, what could be a connection as a person? :) Do you mean I could try giving more info about my life and ask questions? I could do that but I thought it might be boring for people who came to see art here ^^
Iskra
2022-11-03 15:44:12 +0000 UTCPersonally I think you put so much pressure on yourself! Your Art is outstanding and gorgeous. I don't really enjoy NSFW but I'm here because your Art style is gorgeous and you're a big inspiration to me! And I'm amazed on how much you're improving and how much Art you make in a Month, it's crazy, you're a hard worker. Let me be clear with this, but your Art is such high quality I think you don't even realize that!!! ♡ I understand the feeling of losing supporters, but because of circumstances of the life maybe people can't pledge monthly or has to cut on some things because real life is out there. But don't let that discourage you 🥰 And on the topic of what I would like to see, I think sharing progress or sketches is lovely! and maybe some Speedpaints?
Kuridel
2022-11-03 14:40:46 +0000 UTCWith the quality and complexity of your art, I think you post plenty as-is (and you're working a lot, so if you need to cut back and reduce that number I would completely understand). I like the posting wips/sketches idea, I love getting a peek at what's coming from my favourite artists. If I could also make a suggestion, maybe vary the content of your art a bit more? The vast majority of your work is hetero, which I get is probably most people's preferred content or genre, if you will, but I for one would love to see more FxF stuff, or even FxTransfem/intersex/girl penis if that's something you're interested in exploring, or MxM. Not sure where your thoughts and feelings lie with non-hetero content, though. Come to think of it I don't know much about you and your interests at all, would be neat to get to know you as a person a bit if you're open to that, maybe something you could do to connect with your patrons?
Eddie Murphy
2022-11-03 14:38:58 +0000 UTCQuality tho it is hood already
Cj Conner
2022-11-03 14:16:11 +0000 UTCI love your work, your art style, and you are doing just enough. I think that some poeple just don't realize, that art with quality such as yours, takes some time to draw/make. About some patrons quiting - ye that might be a problem right now in europe, because prices of things go higher, because of "well known events" unfortunately. And about people leaking your content - that sucks of course, and there are even specialized websites for leaking patreon and similar pages exclusive content.
Baron Blackfox
2022-11-03 14:05:50 +0000 UTCQuality or quantity? :) (both is not an option sadly)
Iskra
2022-11-03 14:03:35 +0000 UTCPersonally, I love your art and style so much I seriously don’t care what you post, all be it I would rather see comics but whatever makes you the happiest to create is what I will be happiest to view.
Jackson triggs
2022-11-03 13:57:53 +0000 UTCMore art
Cj Conner
2022-11-03 13:54:37 +0000 UTCI also think you post enough and don't want to see you push yourself too much and burn out. I'm not sure how you can handle the leaking of the exclusive art work other than watermarking them and flagging the posts on the sites they are being leaked on. I have a feeling the people that have canceled their pledges have done so to have some extra money for the upcoming holidays.
Rox79
2022-11-03 13:51:38 +0000 UTCthe only time i had problems with the rewards was, when i was too lazy to download the archives over months and the links became dead, but you send them right away after i asked for a resend :)
Grisnir
2022-11-03 13:49:07 +0000 UTCHonestly I love your work and I feel you do enough. Any more and I'd struggle to keep up with everything i have going on. Keep up the awesome work Iskra!
Chris T
2022-11-03 13:42:09 +0000 UTCPersonally I don't understand why people are so willing to leak exclusive content they paid for, but there are many things I don't understand about people in general.
joragi
2022-11-03 13:40:10 +0000 UTC
