I need a different "default" avatar here

[dewline]

Content Warning: Pandemic safety stuff.

Some people find the mask intimidating, despite the Pandemic context still in progress. They have their own reasons, some of which are saddening and have nothing to do with the Pandemic. I find myself not sure how to answer. I'm not going to name anyone I know of, and I'm sure there's others who've kept their own counsel along similar lines that I haven't heard from.

That said, I'm thinking of a different "default" avatar for my regular posts here, the ones that don't find themselves tied to any particular topic or theme or pop culture focus. I'm not sure I need to create a new one from scratch. I'm not sure that I don't, either.

If you see something in the collection of avatars I've already got uploaded and ready that seems like a good choice for a "default mode", I'd be glad of your opinion as to which one(s).

Comments

[dolari]

I've had a few people ask why I'm still wearing a mask, or telling me to take it off. I usually respond with something along the lines of "Its not safe for people like me, yet."

I've never gotten much pushback after that. It says "I'm doing this for me" and "I have reasons to keep wearing it" without saying "You're an asshole for not wearing one."

[dewline]

I'm not sure I can do the diplomacy at this point for multiple reasons.

That aside, do you have a suggestion re: my avatar question?

[malada]

The best (snarkiest) response I've heard to people questioning wearing a mask is, "It helps me mind my own business."

[dewline]

I like that one a lot.

[bibliofile]

I don't see any current icons that aren't already useful for other purposes. And masking remains important, so having an icon without a mask seems tricky.

How about a drawn self-portrait without a mask, or something that's clearly you in a mirror and thus alone at home, so no mask is okay?

You could also come up with a logo for your journal? maybe just a hand, writing in cursive or something equally simple.

[dewline]

I need more practice with Inkscape, Affinity Designer, etc., yes.

[sabotabby]

I like that the mask is intimidating. It's so uncomfortable but at least I can make eugenicists feel uncomfortable while I'm suffering.

[dewline]

I think I'm surrounded more by the worn-down-and-out than the eugenicist/fashy people.

[sabotabby]

I consider them basically the same people.

[kathmandu]

I think the 'Sketching' icon is the one I most associate with your username.