Here is what i have to say about "self promo"
I totally understand and agree with the point so often made: Doing a few really nice and thought out pieces in a safe-ass spot or even a legal wall and then flicking the things yourself and posting them online is kind of "cheating" in a way. Its a rather cheap way of gaining internet fame, having people see your stuff, and making yourself feel better. Its also a way of completely bypassing the hardcore effort aspect, i.e. the going out and painting everyday, the legal risk, basically the putting in time etc. which is what deserves the real respect in my opinion.
HOWEVER, What about people who live in a town where no one else really does it? they don't have other writers that will ever pass by and flick their shit or call them and give em props. Sure people around town will see it, and thats great, but they wouldn't get feedback from someone who understands graf, someone who's opinion is really valuable. THOSE people i believe have to "self promote." because to them its a tool. It is how they get a reaction from other writers. Its how they know if what they're doing is worth it. Maybe they're completely whack and need someone to tell them. Maybe they need some props from a writer who knows a thing or two to inspire them to keep writing. Hell, enough props may inspire them to move to a different town, or switch from walls to freights. people want to know how their shit affects others.
so I say self promo has a purpose and a place, but I agree that many don't know what its purpose or place is and therefore they abuse it.
