"Before the pandemic, I ran a relatively successful ""zine/art biz"", travelling around Ontario to sell up at markets, and building up the local zine community. Obviously all events were cancelled, and I realized I need to shift my biz model and get online. Did a lot of work to make a website, paid for shopify, and hustled. I talked on online panels about mental health and art for local events. But... all my friends were drifting away. No one messaged me, the community I felt so part of prior, didnt seem to care I was gone. I reached out. I confided I was struggling as a disabled creator unable to go out. Silence. I was in a bad place, and knew I needed to do something to shift. I had avoided web3 because I am a people pleaser, and the idea of anyone being upset (because NFTs are terrible blah blah) at me was a lot to over come. I was also nervous, I'm not a tech person, and I didnt work digitally. But, the allure of a new art community, focused online, and exploring new tech seemed better than being depressed and isolated. So I started learning about NFTs. I've made amazing friendships, with people all over the world. Started painting digitally, learned glitch techniques, and I've minted on multiple blockchains. I've made more art since Oct 2021 than I had in years. I've sold artwork, and had my work in New York city. I feel like a whole different person. I've lost some friends who have found out, but I guess they didnt like me too much? I guess I dont miss them either though."