I agree on the “avoiding this type of situation in the future” and asking more questions. I guess I am just now getting to the point where I wouldn’t mind pulling in some more commission work every now and then and realizing some issues that have come up.

I do work more for the joy of the process and the contributions that I make. That’s a good way of putting it.

I find it curious you tired religion to this thorny problem as I’m an atheist. I realize you are only giving a contextual motivation which others can identify more personally. However, I believe morality is a quality orthogonal to religion. To me, this topic is more about following your moral compass. But I wander from the topic…

In the end, I think you have to ask yourself a demanding question.. “Am a ‘hired’ gun?” Do I work for just the paycheck or am I working primarily to be happy with my contributions? Once that topic is explored for yourself, I feel you’ll find these issues of ethics will become more decisive for you. You will have an emotional and logical framework to base your decisions for future situations. It will never be so black and white but hopefully will be easier.

I dare say you seem to value your contributions more than the paycheck; in which case, I think you would be better served following your heart — do work more aligned with your beliefs and morals; however, I think you may want to ask more detailed questions before agreeing to do work in the future to prevent this type of situation.

And I just wanted to comment on Angela experience… Good for you (Angela). It is hard to face and even explore the topic of something distasteful to you. I really believe this is a means of growth not taken enough in today’s society (hence the misunderstanding and intolerance). Doesn’t it feel better to say ‘no’ or ‘I don’t like’ once you’ve really educated yourself on a topic because in the exploration I believe you’ve heard and listened to your inner voice. “To Thine Self Be True”

I only take commission work if it is something I am interested in – it’s not going to be good work if it doesn’t align with my passions.

I think the decision really has to be based on the art’s role. I would do a commission for a homose*ual but I would not create art glorifying homose*uality. However, when I was working as a graphic artist, I did have to create promotional material for strippers. I decided in that situation that I would be a better witness of God’s love by treating them with respect than by condemning them and their lifestyle. I don’t know if that was the right call – it was the decision I made at the time and I still feel pretty good about it.

So many people fear to criticize any art because in our morally ambiguous culture, all points of view are valid. I disagree. I’ve discussed this on my blog at http://angelafehr.blogspot.com/2006/10/my-blog-on-creativity-launch.html

This is the first post I’ve read on your blog – I’m going to go back and read more.

Angela