Monique
patreon
p.s.
🕑 Added 2019-06-01 00:20:03 +0000 UTCP.S.
I've been a little lost on Patreon this year. Between my grandfather dying, my Tumblr account vanishing without a trace, and my current transition into the next life chapter, I have been unsure as to what kind of experience I want to design for you all going forward.
When I first embarked on my Patreon journey, it was with the idea that my followers would get first dibs on my book projects. And that is what has happened. I hope you all have enjoyed (and continue to enjoy) that work.
One issue I've had with that, however, is that the process for making books is incredibly expensive. Outside of Patreon, I have had very little book sales. This is undoubtedly due to the price, which I have very little control over.
Therefore, I am exploring other publishing sites to produce a more cost effective version of my photo/poetry books. If you do not already own an original copy of one or more of my books, please let me know which ones you have not yet received.
You can either purchase one at a discount now, (while they are available) and/or I can place one in a future patron package for you. When you receive it will depend on pledge amount and duration of patronage.
Secondly, I had a terrible experience when working on a feature for The Desert Adventure in 'Model Society Magazine.' After I (and about 10 TDA participants) dedicated a lot of time and effort to that project, I'm sad to say it was all for nothing. My entire exchange with the curator of M.S. left such a bad taste in my mouth that I am considering removing my profile from his site entirely. Eva Luna has already deleted her profile. This is unfortunately too common a problem in this industry; men using various platforms to try to leverage power/control over women.
This experience got me thinking about how I can best be in control of my work, as an artist. When I do decide on a publishing site for my books, I may also print a small scale, quarterly magazine. If this should be the case, patrons would have exclusive (pledge dependent) access to digital/physical copies. It all depends on whether I can find an efficient/affordable platform to work from. My biggest issue with Patreon has always been the lack-luster presentation. This could be my move in a positive direction. I will keep you posted as this idea develops.
XO
