Fowler from a long time ago

[Wingshot]

The internet and the proliferation of social media (digital mental institution) has changed the way neophytes approach learning new or newer skills. I’ll use fly tying for an example because as a kid growing up in the late 60’s and 70’s there was very little in the way of instructional media that could launch a kid into the craft, one had to be “brought into the fold and mentored” so to speak. This holds true for many hobbies and crafts. Fast forward to today and I could easily rattle off 3-4 YT channels to follow, a couple online suppliers and have a youngster cranking out some trout catching flies in a matter of days, not years. Building a muzzle loading rifle from a blank is another kettle of fish altogether, sure there’s online print and video resources, (this forum topping the list) but to Jim’s point there’s some richly talented contemporary artists out there who do not participate in forums such as this. The reluctance to accept criticism from some arm chair commenter is likely not one of the reasons they choose to be outside the realm of technology. I suspect that they covet the skills they’ve acquired over the years and understand quite clearly the level of determination and work ethic involved to gain those acquired skills. They’ll more than likely have (and do) often take a student or two under their wing but only if they see that spark that tells them this student might be able to carry on this craft/trade long after the master has departed the earth. Just my opinion, I don’t begrudge anyone for rejecting the allure of getting there creativity immortalized on the internet and at the same time give credit to those who do. Mr. Kibler has 100% changed the game when one thinks of allowing the budding longrifle builder an opportunity to assemble and possibly personalize a semi custom piece of extreme quality without a lifetime of trial and error.

[Tumbledown]

Jim,

You fit in.

There are those comments offering constructive criticism, and those that just criticize. Being told you did a lousy job without knowing or understanding what is at issue does not encourage improvement. It doesn't help when the criticism is terse or smarmy and comes from someone with years or even decades of knowledge and experience and doesn't want to offer advice (especially when they admit to finding it tiresome. To them I ask, then why are you here?)

Sometimes, too, even the best-intended critique can bruise our egos, especially when we or are unfamiliar with each other. In those moments, it can be tough to get past the emotional reaction and try to learn from it.

I have been on both sides of this, both on this forum and others. I'm more of a lurker here, because I don't feel my skills or knowledge run deep enough to contribute much. So I read, and learn. And share what I can.

But I'm always trying to elevate the hobby. Isn't that ultimately why we're here?