VirtuousCon 2024: Return to the Diverse Creative Matrix
Joseph Watkins
The digital metaverse: technology’s input/output center. It is a place where ideas are founded, emotions are tested, and thoughts flourish. Move the right keys, you could win $1 million dollars on Robin Hood; press the wrong keys, the FBI is at your door.
Within these digital hubs, there sometimes lie excellent ideas and communities of a greater magnitude. One such hub is VirtuousCon, a virtual convention known for its rich discussions by its many Black creatives.
This digital landscape is an amazing two-day exploration in which creatives were able to examine and witness the inner workings of the pop culture universe. From endorsing your brand to finally getting black hair textures correct in digital media, VirtuousCON is not only an amazing place but also allows the truth to be expressed unapologetically!
Since its inception in 2020, VirtuousCon has been a virtual haven, bringing together an assortment of creators who excel in various mediums: comics, books, film, visual arts, and more.
SideNote: VirtuousCon offers attendees a unique and immersive experience. From exploring the digital multiverse to engaging with fellow "Blerds" (Black Nerds), VirtuousCon fosters a sense of belonging and authenticity that resonates with attendees making this event the premiere space for Black Pop Culture.
Cerece Renee Murphy
Cerece Renee Murphy, the founder behind this groundbreaking event, continues to astound us with her vision and dedication to showcasing the excellence of these creators. For me, VirtuousCon isn't just about celebrating pop culture; it's about empowering creatives through shared experiences, via successes and challenges within the pop culture space, all while expanding its reach within the digital multiverse. To describe the functionality of VirtuousCon would be to quote the words of Morpheus, Neo's mentor, from The Matrix:
“Unfortunately, no one can be told what the Matrix is. You have to see it for yourself.”
That is the nature of VirtuousCon, a 'digital matrix' filled with insightful guidance for those who find it hard to navigate the creative scene and propel themselves forward within this “algorithmic digital space”.
SideNote: For 2024, VirtuousCon proved to be an unparalleled experience as many gathered to listen to inspiring commentary while others pushed boundaries and opened new doors for creativity and innovation.
With two digital panel rooms dedicated to the OGs in the comic and sci-fi industry—the Octavia Butler and the Dwayne McDuffie room—attendees were treated to a wealth of inspirational content that some would not be able to find at a traditional comic con. As the panelists spoke, fans commented, and added their questions, with hope that guests would be able to answer them. Additionally, the rest area, 2-4 floors of magic and discussion, also housed speakers and vendors.
I even had the privilege to speak with the author and creator of Harriet Tubman Demon Slayer, David Crownson (We’ll get back to that).
As I once again journeyed into this digital metaverse, I heard one attendee state, "It's not just about the incredible creative talent on display; it's about the community and sense of identity it provides for fans of pop culture."
I love it here.
Choosing a few panels to participate in, I decided to explore not only to learn but also to change my perspective within this digital ecosystem and better serve my own brand.
TWITCH VS YOUTUBE; Which is better for Black Gamers?
Twitch and YouTube Partner, Betty Nixx discussed with creators, YouTuber AyChristene and Twitch’s DeeJayKnight, the advantages and disadvantages of streaming on YouTube and Twitch, with a focus on the Black gaming community. Within the conversation, each discussed the pros and cons of their platforms, representation in the industry, the support of the community and the issues of trolling and racism.
In this digital age, attention is currency. Social media algorithms, aimed at maximizing engagement, often boost sensational or controversial content, inadvertently amplifying trolls and their POVs. This algorithm rewards negative behaviors and creates a culture where shock value overshadows meaningful dialogue.
SideNote: Trolls on the internet are individuals who deliberately engage in disruptive or provocative behavior to elicit strong emotional reactions from others. Their actions can range from posting inflammatory comments, spreading false information, or instigating conflicts within online communities.
Driven by profit, some platforms may neglect the digital ecosystem, sacrificing community health for increased engagement, which can result in tolerating harmful behaviors such as sexism, ableism, and racism.
In response to these issues DeeJay Knight shared his insight...
DeeJay Knight - “The Concept of Hate Raids is really jealousy....you’re trying to be like me, it’s cool, you could try. You can’t be me but be yourself. I would rather talk with an actual troll and pull them down off of whatever nonsense their on. Because I feel like it really comes down to attention.....you don’t have to be silly, you don’t have to be edgy to get attention... Talk to me, let’s have some words....that’s for regular trolls. The racists, they just get banned and it’s fun to do [Banning them].”
AyChristene also had some thoughts as well....
AyChristene - “What you [DeeJay] said about the trolling and the attention is so real and if people just took the time to think and say, ‘what would be the best way of getting attention’ and just talk to you. I’m open to having a conversation instead of you, just blert up something crazy in the thought that I would give you attention and highlight.... plus, its short-lived. Its longer lived if you actually sit and have a conversation, a back and forth, instead of just blerting out nonsense. Because now you’re like 0 seconds of fame and now you’re out.“
Can’t change em all.
Racism exists on the internet. The faces are hidden, but the words are the same. with the consequences, far greater. YouTube and Twitch do provide Mods to prevent some occurrences from happening, yet, many comments and individuals still get through.
Technology is a medium and the people [trolls] who control it are the issue. AI mods are helping, but it’s not enough. Here, solutions provided by these individuals are one way to fight the trolls with hopes of reversing their thinking. A GEM, most definitely.
ThatDolla’ - Brands & the Worth of Content Creators/Influencers.
This panel focused on the intersection of Brand Deals and Content Creation spoken by some veterans in the content creation game:
AYChristene (Moderator)
This panel explored how creators can effectively collaborate with brands to produce engaging and authentic content that resonates with their audiences. “Gem” discussion points included, strategies for identifying and partnering with suitable brands, and the approach to doing “free vs. paid” work. Each person discussed their perspective in regard to obtaining revenue but some of the biggest gems laid into creating a business plan for yourself:
Cupahnoodle- “Plan for the future you want, not the present your in....I plan on retiring as a content creator and because of that I have to plan for that early, so it's more to it than just "Oh well, I'm here and then I'm there." It's like, no, where do you want to be three years from now? Five years from now? If you can think about these things early, it may help you shape the business you mold as you continue. So yeah, I'm gonna go with build for the future you want, not the present you're in.”
Chealsea Bytes: “Be Loud....Be strategic, with how you celebrate your wins because you want those Brands to see.. Be strategic. Use your tools and celebrate yourself loudly and effectively there's always a way to do it online.”
Content creation is a multi-billion-dollar business. Research from Linktree states that there are over 207 million content creators in the world. Of that amount, 23 million creators have between 0-1000 followers. Surprisingly, there are only 2 million creators who have about 1 million followers. Additionally, 59% of creators in the “beginning space” [about 23 million creators] of content creation whose annual income is between $0-$100 haven’t monetized while those whose income is between $100-$1K yearly, have earned income deemed “unsuitable for living.”
The creator space is hard. Consistency, in my opinion, is key and, for some, this will lead to an official job in content creation.
One question, posed by AyChristene hit home and seemed to be the most important for content creators: “Have you ever did any promotions for free?” Although everyone answered, Leesh Capeesh provided some guidance when it comes to “free promotion” and supporting the community.
Leesh Capeesh - I also make it a point to spotlight Black businesses, so I will promote those for free on my channel. I always do that, and there are certain games that I promote for free on my channel, like Final Fantasy 14....Companies that have given me amazing customer service I will always promote for free because I want people to have the same experience.
I want everybody to win, to feel their best, look their best….
When starting as a content creator one of the many issues that take place is the inconsistent income and the lack of visibility. Many viewers see their idols and note their income and their reach, yet what they don’t see are the trials, tribulations, and timelines that take place behind the scenes that lead to these pivotal moments.
Kai Cenat, is an example.
International celebrity, 6.34 M subscribers on YT, 12.5M subscribers on Twitch, when he first started, he was unknown to the population at large. His first video appeared on FB at 13 (2015), then Youtube (2018), and finally he received his major accolades when he arrived on Twitch (2021).
For platforms, while they provide tools and services for free to make your brand, it is up to the user to be smart enough to know when to shift and move to a platform that best benefits them.
That Dolla provided a revealing look into content creation and the difficulties in making “free vs. paid” choices in content creation. One lesson everyone needs to understand in content creation is that you have to plan “for the future you want and not the present you’re in.” Also, #shouout to ChealseaBytes who provided a word of guidance in this content creation economy:
Chelsea Bytes - “what I think we should pivot towards, when it comes to free work is, free work for ourselves because I'm all about creating moments like showing what you can do. I think a lot of people will sit around and wait for those opportunities, expecting people to start throwing things at them, like free codes, thinking that's a sign of making it as a creator. That's not really it; you should be paid to do those things. Instead of doing free work for other brands, you should do free work for yourself. Start planning for the content you want to see and just start making that. That's the only free work you really should be putting your all into.
Respect.
How to Draw Black Hair
Black people have some of the most diverse hairstyles in the world, yet this diversity is rarely reflected in gaming. Ever since the premiere of Black Panther (2018), the cursed “Kilmonger Cut” has been the lazy standard in hair design for Black characters in video games. Game Developer’s Alessandro Fillari said it best when describing POC in gaming and the authentic view of Black Characters:
“Even as people of color represent a sizable portion of the global gaming audience, modern video games still struggle to convey an authentic view of characters from different cultures accurately.”
While some companies are moving to create a diverse gaming character experience, there is still significant progress to be made in representing the full range of hairstyles and features for People of Color. Dove, surprisingly, has teamed up with game developers to create a guide called “Code my Crown” a free resource that provides 3D modelers and artists with a step-by-step guide to creating authentic Black hair for gamers.
A good starting point.
VirtuousCon reflected that same energy by hosting the panel, How to draw Black Hair by Saturday AM’s co-founder, Whyt Manga. Internationally known as Odunze Whyte Oguguo, author of the world-renowned Apple Black manga, he provided valuable insights into drawing diverse hair styles for Black characters. Additionally, he also answered guests questions and provided advice for the artistic community.
Conclusion/Final Thoughts
VirtuousCon is a shining example of what can be achieved when creativity knows no bounds. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, VirtuousCon is becoming the digital voice of the Blerd creative scene and remains at the forefront in providing a digitial platform for the cretive OGs, novices, and fans of the pop culture community.
Looking forward to visiting them next year.
