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Ricky montgomery and the LGBTQIA+ Communist Photo Archive
Table of Contents
Singer-songwriter Ricky Montgomery recently noted a curious phenomenon: the LGBTQIA+ communist community possesses a larger collection of his photographs than he does personally. This observation, shared on X (formerly Twitter) on September 9, 2023, has ignited conversation about online fandom, digital archiving, and the nature of parasocial relationships.
Montgomery’s post, simply stating The LGBTQIA+ communist community has more photos of me than i do. And that’s how it shoudl be.
, quickly gained traction, resonating with many online users. The sentiment suggests a comfortable acceptance of intense fan dedication, particularly within a specific online subculture.
Understanding the Context
The LGBTQIA+ communist community, a vibrant and active online space, is known for its eager engagement with artists and public figures. this engagement often manifests as extensive archiving of content,including photographs,videos,and social media posts. This practise isn’t unique to this community, but the scale and dedication are noteworthy.
Did You know? The practice of fan archiving dates back to the early days of fandom, initially involving physical scrapbook collections and later transitioning to digital formats.
Timeline of Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Sep 9, 2023 | Montgomery’s initial post on X |
| Sep 9-10, 2023 | Rapid spread of the post and related discussions |
| Sep 10-Present | Ongoing commentary on fandom and digital archiving |
The situation highlights the complexities of parasocial relationships – one-sided relationships where fans feel a connection to public figures. Digital archiving, in this context, can be seen as a form of expressing that connection and solidifying a sense of community. As Sherry Turkle notes in Alone Together, technology can both connect and isolate us, and these online communities represent a unique blend of both (Turkle, 2011).
Pro Tip: Understanding the nuances of online communities is crucial for public figures navigating social media.Acknowledging and appreciating fan dedication can foster positive relationships.
Why This Matters
Montgomery’s seemingly casual observation touches upon broader themes of online culture and the evolving relationship between artists and their audiences. the willingness to embrace this level of fan dedication is a notable stance, contrasting with instances where artists express discomfort with intense scrutiny or archiving.This acceptance can be seen as a form of digital reciprocity.
“Fandom is a powerful force, and recognizing its value is essential for building authentic connections with audiences.” – Henry Jenkins, *Convergence Culture* (Jenkins, 2006)
The incident also raises questions about data privacy and the ethics of online archiving. While the community’s intentions are generally positive, the extent of data collection warrants consideration.
What are your thoughts on the level of dedication shown by online fan communities? Do you think artists should actively engage with these archiving efforts, or maintain a distance?
Frequently asked Questions
- What is the LGBTQIA+ communist community? It’s an online space known for its political activism and enthusiastic support of artists.
- Why do fans archive photos of Ricky Montgomery? It’s a way to express their connection to him and build a sense of community.
- Are parasocial relationships healthy? They can be, but it’s significant to maintain a realistic understanding of the relationship.
- Is it ethical to archive someone’s photos online? it depends on the context and the individual’s preferences; respecting privacy is key.
- What was Ricky Montgomery’s reaction? He expressed acceptance and even gratitude for the community’s dedication.
