Don’t Click This Link!

My title probably sounds like pure clickbait… you know, one of those headlines that dares the reader to click, that arouses just enough curiosity to make it impossible not to click, one that provides a tantalizing bit of information without revealing too many facts. Well, the title isn’t really intended to be clickbait here, although there are several links in the post that you might want to click.

Of course, the title could also be a warning, right? When it comes to spam and bots and malware and viruses, we’re often cautioned “Do not click on any links.” Again, that’s not what this post-title is all about. Rest assured, any links in the post will take you to a reputable art-related website.

I fell victim to the clicking compulsion earlier this morning as I browsed my e-mails. There it was! Notification from Paletteful Packs that my monthly subscription box was on its way. The subject line read: December Petite Pack Contents and Prompts.

Did I want to know what art goodies I’d be receiving? Or did I want to wait and be surprised? Surprises are always fun, but, oh, well, it’s fun to know ahead of time what to expect, right? So, yeah. I opened the e-mail. And here’s what I found:

Don’t click this link until you want to know what is in the December box.

Much like those persistent dialogue boxes that come up asking… are you sure you want to delete… are you really sure you want to do this… are  you absolutely positive this is something you want to do?

I could have waited, sure. The box is on its way. Maybe it will be here today. If not today, definitely early in the week. Did I really, really want to know the contents?

Needless to say, I clicked. And I was delighted by what I found. The theme for the December box is Copic and Maribu Alcohol Markers. I’ll be receiving a total of 5 alcohol markers, a new Micron pen, plus a pack of Strathmore Greeting Cards and Envelopes, all perfect for creating my own holiday cards.

One advantage to clicking on that link and knowing in advance what I’ll be receiving is that I can learn more about the products — and how to use them. On the web, truly one link does lead to another, and I’ve found some great resources this morning as I’ve browsed about.

How to Use Micron Pens – 12 Awesome Tips and Tricks to Help You Create Whimsical Art

Strathmore Art Tutorials

Strathmore Free Art Workshops

How to Use Copic Markers

I tend to think of myself as a somewhat restrained individual, someone with a bit of self-discipline and will-power. I can pass clickbait links by all day long, never caring about what some famous person looks like today, ignoring the claims that I might be shocked, amazed, or otherwise emotionally moved by what the link might reveal. I easily ignore those taunting headlines begging me to find out what someone said or ones that promise to share some great secret or to show me the best and worst proposals, or advise me about fashion mistakes I might be making. Hint: At my age, I’m sure I’m making them all.

When it comes to art, though, those links can be tempting, indeed. I’m glad I clicked and found out what’s coming up in my December subscription box. Now, armed with the knowledge I’ve found, I’ll be ready to put those markers to good use as soon as they arrive.

 

 

 

 

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