Recently, I started to stream on Twitch; having my screen displayed for anyone to come along and view as I draw and work on my art projects. And I discovered something that surprised me. In fact, I found it surprising, yet powerful enough, to write this out in the hopes it will help other artists. Let me quickly explain why I decided to try streaming, and then I’ll let you know the new, and I think better, reason why I continue.
First, why did I start streaming my art? Probably for the same reasons that other artists would try it: hoping to expand my audience through a different website, let those who already know me watch my process, and maybe earn a little extra money. Simple, and straightforward. I’ve seen other artists be on Twitch, and know that it is a place that artists can be seen, so figured I would go for it.
However, so far, none of these have had the same impact as this next effect of streaming: my productivity went up. This is for a very simple reason. People are, or may be, watching. And since my channel is an art channel, when I know people could pop on at any time, it helps me to maintain focus on my art for longer than I often do otherwise. Not getting distracted by anything else, or even being bored. The idea that I am on here, and people (in theory) are here to watch me, helps me keep at the thing they would be here to watch. And I’ve found it helps even when I have no viewers – as I said, someone COULD pop on. Plus it helps my time to be more set aside for art, rather than just “when I feel like it.” Once I have the stream, I personally felt more accountable to myself and those who follow me.
Someone might wonder if the chat can be distracting. In one sense, yes. But I found that I can look up, see what people are saying, and talk in response, while continuing to draw.
So that’s it. Streaming helps me be productive. Or it has in the couple of weeks I have been streaming for. While the reasons I started are valid reasons, and I certainly hope my streams will grow in those areas, this productivity surprised me, and is the reason I think artists should consider streaming.
If you’re interested in my streams, you can find my channel and see old streams (or catch the live ones!) at Twitch.tv/MichaelHoweArts