When it comes to making friends, do you tend to gravitate towards people who share your interests? A hot topic has been swirling on Japanese X (formerly Twitter) recently: "Do artists only befriend other artists?" The general sentiment is that if you don't draw, it's tough to break into artist social circles. This idea has sparked a lively debate, with several illustrators and manga artists weighing in.
Japanese manga artist Futochi SLIM (@FUTOCHIMPO) kicked off the discussion on X, noting how often he's heard the phrase "artists only befriend other artists." He believes there's a solid reason behind it.
Simply put, among general netizens, you're bound to encounter some folks with "a slightly off sense of boundaries." If artists aren't careful and let these individuals into their space, it can lead to some seriously annoying consequences. Naturally, many artists become more cautious and guarded. He even illustrated his own experiences in a comic example.
Futochi SLIM listed over 20 common scenarios. For instance, just being a little friendly online can lead to someone spamming your comments, or relentlessly hitting the like button until your notification feed is practically monopolized by a single name.
Then there are the strangers who suddenly act like your best buddy, or those who seize the opportunity to pitch their own stuff to artists, turning what should be a simple exchange into a high-pressure situation.
Illustrator Naoki Saito shared his perspective, suggesting three main reasons why artists tend to gravitate towards other artists for friendship.
First, he points out a common mismatch in time perception with non-artists. Second, creative values often clash between artists and non-artists. And finally, because many artists don't have artist friends in their real-life circles, these online connections become even more prevalent.
Illustrator Hiro Kanzaki offered another observation. He noted that some people genuinely start drawing just to make artist friends, and he believes there's nothing wrong with that motivation. However, he's seen many cases where if someone is solely focused on making friends without a genuine drive to improve their art, it can create friction or a divide with artists who are constantly honing their craft.
Manga artist Akina Endo chimed in, saying this topic frequently resurfaces. In his view, what people are really trying to say is, "Why don't *you* want to be friends with *me*?" He countered by asking who would want to form a deep connection with someone whose daily life and interests are a complete mystery. He argues this isn't an issue exclusive to artists.
"NyataBE" believes it's not that artists *only* befriend other artists, but rather that artists spend their entire day drawing. Beyond their art, they often have little else to talk about or are interested in, so they naturally connect best with others who share that passion. At least, that's how it is for him.
It feels like this isn't just an "artist thing." In any community where people are deeply invested in a shared activity, their conversations, daily rhythms, and priorities naturally align, making it easier for them to form friendships. Right, QQ?