What should I share on Drip?
The “what” and the “why” of sharing work in progress.
Drip is a place where you can share finished work, but it’s also a place to share the messy, not-quite-polished, behind-the-scenes parts of your creative process — brainstorms, sketches, creative detours, and existential questions.
You might be thinking, Why would I want to share work in progress? Maybe you’re hesitant to give away too much, or worry about the amount of time required to post regular updates in addition to what you’re already making. Sharing unfinished work is an inherently vulnerable act, but here are a few reasons why it’s worth it:
There’s value in vulnerability.
Even though it can be intimidating, being vulnerable is worthwhile: it opens you up to other people and opens them up to you.
It’s clear by now that the public personas people present online rarely — if ever — match reality. On Drip, with a group of subscribers who love your work, there’s a chance to get true support that includes funding, but also goes beyond it. By opening up, you’re allowing people to cheer you on as you experiment and figure out what works — and as you make your way through the rough patches.
Dialogue makes your output stronger.
Whether you’re making zines, designing games, or producing a podcast, it’s easy to feel like you’re making work in a vacuum. The antidote: keeping in regular touch with people who believe in what you’re making and want to see you succeed. Your Drip subscribers are more than followers; they’re supporting your work and they want to get closer to it. Giving them a clearer picture of how you do what you do will help solidify that bond, and can also help to strengthen your work through dialogue and feedback.
You can share in the way that makes sense to you.
There’s no one right way to share insight into your creative process. Maybe, like Drip creator Mike Rugnetta, you’ll write about your approach to making things. Maybe you’ll post photos and videos of your workspace, like ceramicist and Drip creator Dina Nur Satti. Whatever route your updates take, feel good knowing that by stepping out of your comfort zone, you’re letting your subscribers in — and opening yourself up to the exchange of true and meaningful support.
