Twitch Live-Streaming: One Year On

So I remember setting up to begin my first live stream. I had no microphone, one camera and I was balancing my laptop on a nearby table. I was honestly so nervous you could go as far as saying i was terrified. I remember that I was in absolute disbelief when someone stopped by to say how much they loved my work and I found the encouragement extremely motivating. From that day on I have never looked back; I have continued to develop my stream, grow a community and I have even added a 'chester cam' so viewers can see what my dog is up to whilst I draw (usually having a tantrum or sleeping).

Twitch is a platform that allows viewers to watch and interact with a range of streamers. Twitch is no longer just for gamers; it now includes categories such as Art, music, Travel and Chatting and the wealth of talent on this site is honestly outstanding. From artists to musicians to fitness fanatics there is something for everyone. It is also great to find a streamer that speaks another language should you want to refresh your language skills. You can support streamers by subscribing (one free sub for amazon prime members), donating, giving the twitch currency called 'bits' or just stopping by and saying hello is more than enough!

My custom Chester emotes that subscribers get to use

It is daunting when you first start streaming, in fact, there were many many hours of just talking to myself with no viewers, but, persistence and keeping a good routine is key. I am by no means a big or even a medium sized streamer but I have thoroughly enjoyed the experience over the last year. I am lucky to have some of the kindest and most genuine followers on twitch and I look forward to chatting with them on a daily basis! It is crazy to think that I now speak to new friends from America, Taiwan, Australia and of course Europe and the UK!

In my first year of streaming I managed to achieve Twitch Affiliate status and gained 426 followers! My viewers also have the opportunity to collect 'channel points' just through viewing and are able to spend them on song request or even a free commission! I think going forward I just want to grow my audience, continue to make new friends and share laughs whilst I develop as an artist.

I know my viewers will appreciate it if I drop this clip here - me screaming at a HUGE (actually tiny) spider running across my paper...If you fancy coming to join the fun or even ask for art related advice I often stream at midday (UK time) on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays and you can reach my page here