Tag: News

The furry community is once again gearing up to celebrate its unsung heroes with the 6th Annual Good Furry Awards, an initiative that has been a cornerstone of appreciation and recognition within the fandom for over five years.

These awards, meticulously organized to honor individuals who contribute significantly to both the furry community and the broader public, are now in their final week of voting. The Good Furry Awards have a rich history of acknowledging the hard work and dedication of furries who often go unrecognised for their efforts. Past winners include notable figures such as Ash Coyote, Dogbomb, Mark Merlino, and Rod O’Riley, each of whom has made substantial contributions to the community.

The voting process, which is open to all members of the furry community, allows participants to nominate and vote for individuals who have made a positive impact. This inclusive approach ensures that the awards truly reflect the community’s appreciation for its most dedicated and compassionate members.

The Good Furry Awards serve as a poignant reminder of the community’s values of kindness, generosity, and mutual support. By recognizing these unsung heroes, the awards foster a sense of unity and gratitude within the fandom.

If you are a part of the furry community or know someone who deserves recognition, now is the time to cast your vote. The voting period is open until September 30, so make sure to participate and show your appreciation for those who make a difference.

For more information and to cast your vote, you can visit the Good Furry Awards page on Dogpatch Press.

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Share your thoughts and nominations in the comments below Let’s come together to celebrate the best of our community.

Source: 2024 Good Furry Award – final week for voting

Furry Weekend Atlanta Sets New Records in 2024

The furry community has once again demonstrated its vibrant growth and enthusiasm, as Furry Weekend Atlanta (FWA) celebrated a record-shattering year in 2024. This annual convention, held in the heart of Atlanta, Georgia, has solidified its position as one of the largest and most popular furry conventions globally.

Attendance and Charity Milestones

FWA welcomed an impressive 15,021 attendees in 2024, marking a significant increase of 4,693 from the previous year. This surge in attendance not only reflects the convention’s growing popularity but also underscores the dedication and passion of the furry fandom. The event raised a substantial $100,000 for the charity Lost-n-Found Youth, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting homeless LGBTQ+ youth.

Operational Challenges and Successes

Despite the challenges posed by such rapid growth, the FWA team managed to navigate several logistical hurdles. The convention had to adapt to changes in venue arrangements, with the markets (including the dealers den and artists alley) being relocated from the Hyatt to the Hilton due to space constraints. This shift presented some challenges, including managing traffic flow and ensuring event spaces remained within acceptable capacity limits. However, these adjustments did not deter the enthusiasm of the attendees, who eagerly participated in various events, including the highly popular Moonlight Festival and the Mystery Skulls performances.

Community and City Integration

FWA is not just a convention; it is an integral part of the Atlanta community. While attendees enjoyed the rich offerings of the convention, they also experienced the unique city feel of Atlanta. The area around the convention venues was bustling with activities and dining options, although some attendees reported incidents such as car break-ins and muggings, highlighting the need for vigilance in urban settings.

Future Outlook

As FWA continues to grow, it is clear that the convention will remain a cornerstone of the furry fandom. The event’s ability to attract such a large and diverse crowd is a testament to the community’s strength and the organizers’ dedication. With plans already in place for the 2025 convention, themed “FuturePunk,” FWA is poised to continue its trajectory of success and community engagement.

For those who missed this year’s event or are eager to learn more, the experiences shared by attendees and the detailed coverage of the convention provide a glimpse into the vibrant world of the furry fandom. Whether you are a seasoned furry or just curious about this unique community, FWA’s achievements in 2024 are certainly worth celebrating.

Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below, and don’t forget to spread the word about this incredible event.

Source: https://www.flayrah.com/9165/furry-weekend-atlanta-has-record-shattering-year-year-growth-2024

The furry community is bidding a heartfelt farewell to FurSquare Thailand, a beloved marketplace that has been a cornerstone for buying and selling furry merchandise for over six years. This significant loss marks the end of an era for many who relied on FurSquare as a vibrant hub for creativity, commerce, and connection.

Since its inception, FurSquare Thailand has been more than just a marketplace; it has been a community. It provided a platform where artists, creators, and enthusiasts could come together to share their passion for furry culture. The site was known for its diverse range of products, from handmade crafts to unique artwork, all celebrating the rich and imaginative world of furries.

For many, FurSquare was not just a place to shop but a space to connect with like-minded individuals. It fostered a sense of belonging and encouraged creativity, allowing artists to showcase their talents and fans to support their favorite creators. The closure of FurSquare leaves a void in the community, but it also serves as a reminder of the impact and legacy that this platform has left behind.

As the furry community comes to terms with this loss, it is a time to reflect on the memories and experiences that FurSquare has provided. Whether you were a frequent shopper, an artist showcasing your work, or simply someone who enjoyed browsing the diverse offerings, FurSquare’s presence will be deeply missed.

The community is encouraged to share their memories and stories about FurSquare in the comments below. Let us celebrate the spirit of creativity and connection that FurSquare embodied and look forward to new opportunities and ventures that may arise in the future.

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Feel free to share your thoughts and memories of FurSquare Thailand in the comments section below. Your stories and reflections are a testament to the enduring impact of this fandom.

In a groundbreaking study that has garnered significant attention in the scientific community, researchers have uncovered compelling neural evidence suggesting that dogs may visualize words in a manner similar to humans. This innovative research, which delves into the cognitive processes of our canine companions, offers new insights into the complex ways dogs process and understand human language.

The study, conducted by a team of neuroscientists, employed advanced imaging techniques to observe the brain activity of dogs as they were exposed to various words. The findings indicate that dogs exhibit distinct neural patterns when hearing words, particularly those associated with actions or objects they are familiar with. This suggests that dogs may not just recognize words as sounds, but actually visualize the concepts or actions these words represent.

For instance, when a dog hears the word “ball,” the study showed that the dog’s brain activates areas that are linked to the visual and motor aspects of playing with a ball. This activation is remarkably similar to how human brains respond to the same word, highlighting a potential shared cognitive mechanism between species.

This research has significant implications for our understanding of canine cognition and communication. It implies that dogs are not merely reacting to auditory cues but are instead engaging in a more sophisticated process of understanding and visualizing the meaning behind the words they hear.

The study also opens up new avenues for research into animal cognition and the ways in which different species process language. As our understanding of these processes deepens, it could lead to improved methods for training and communicating with dogs, as well as a greater appreciation for the cognitive abilities of our furry friends.

As the scientific community continues to explore the intricacies of animal intelligence, studies like this remind us of the remarkable capabilities of the creatures we share our lives with. Whether you are a seasoned researcher or simply a dog enthusiast, this research is sure to spark interesting discussions and reflections on the complex bond between humans and dogs.

Feel free to share your thoughts and insights on this fascinating study in the comments below. How do you think this new understanding could impact your relationship with your canine companion? Share this article with fellow dog lovers and let’s continue the conversation.

Source: New study provides neural evidence dogs visualise words as humans do

The furry community is mourning the loss of a pivotal figure with the passing of Sean “Dragoneer” Piche, the owner of the renowned art platform Fur Affinity. Dragoneer, who was just 44 years old, succumbed to complications from a serious respiratory disease on August 6, 2024.

Dragoneer was more than just the owner of Fur Affinity; he was a cornerstone of the furry community, dedicating his life to fostering and nurturing the artistic and social aspects of the fandom. Since taking over Fur Affinity, he transformed the site from a struggling art community into a dominant hub for furry artists and enthusiasts.

His journey with Fur Affinity began in 2007, and over the years, he navigated numerous challenges, including controversies and policy updates that shaped the site’s code of conduct. Notably, he played a crucial role in updating the site’s policies to disallow hate groups, banning artworks generated by artificial intelligence, and expanding rules to protect the community.

Dragoneer’s impact extended beyond Fur Affinity. He was also instrumental in promoting and later taking over the responsibility for FA: United, a companion convention that, unfortunately, had to be permanently canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

In his final days, Dragoneer openly shared his health struggles on social media, detailing his battle with pneumonia-like symptoms that began in mid-June. Despite his optimistic outlook and hopes for recovery, he faced significant hurdles in accessing healthcare due to being uninsured, a situation that has sparked widespread discussion and sympathy within the community.

The news of his passing has sent shockwaves through the furry community, with many members expressing their deep sadness and gratitude for his contributions. Dragoneer’s legacy is evident in the countless lives he touched and the vibrant community he helped build. His dedication and commitment to the fandom have left an indelible mark, ensuring that his spirit will continue to be felt through the ongoing existence and growth of Fur Affinity.

As the community comes together to mourn and celebrate his life, it is a poignant reminder of the importance of appreciating and supporting those who work tirelessly behind the scenes to create and maintain these vital community spaces.

We invite you to share your memories and tributes to Dragoneer in the comments below, and to spread the word about his incredible contributions to the furry community.

In recent developments, a significant issue has come to light regarding the presence and activities of individuals who identify as zoophiles on various social media platforms, including Bluesky. This matter has sparked considerable concern within online communities, particularly those focused on furry and related interests.

A detailed list, known as the Zoophile Mute List, has been compiled and is publicly available on GitHub. This list aims to identify and document individuals who openly advocate for or engage in zoophilic activities, as well as those who actively interact with them.

The list includes several individuals who have been identified as open zoophiles, such as Kyon Canid, Blethyn, Laika, Troia Delfino, XZoyen37, Kayco, PossBeans, and Valkyrie, among others. Additionally, it highlights cases where individuals have been involved in more severe activities, such as Zrcalo, who has admitted to killing birds for taxidermy and has a history of interfering with investigations into zoophilic abuse.

Other notable mentions include Lania Hynae, SmolHawk, HateEven, Heart Chee, Jupiter, Rykes, Wibke, Black Jack, and Lykos, all of whom have been identified as open zoophiles. There are also accounts that follow or interact with these individuals, which raises further concerns about the spread of such content.

The compilation of this list serves as a resource for users who wish to avoid or block these accounts. It provides a mechanism for users to subscribe to the list, which will result in a disclaimer being displayed below the profiles of muted or blocked accounts.

This issue underscores the importance of community vigilance and the need for platforms to implement robust measures to prevent the spread of harmful content. As the furry community continues to grow and evolve, it is crucial that we maintain a safe and respectful environment for all members.

We encourage our readers to stay informed and to report any suspicious or harmful content they may encounter. Your feedback and comments on this matter are valuable, and we invite you to share your thoughts in the comments section below.

Source: Repo for the Zoophile Mute List on Bluesky

The furry community is set to celebrate a significant milestone with the launch of the first-ever Furry Studies academic conference, scheduled to take place on October 18, 2024, in Rotterdam, Netherlands. This groundbreaking event is part of the broader Otterdam Furry Arts Festival, which aims to bring together academics, researchers, and community members from around the world to share knowledge and insights about the furry fandom.

A Platform for Multi-Field Learning

The conference will be a hybrid event, offering both physical and online participation options. This inclusive approach ensures that everyone, regardless of their geographical location, can contribute to and benefit from the discussions. The event is designed to foster a diverse exchange of ideas, welcoming submissions from established academics, independent scholars, and non-academic members of the furry community alike.

Call for Submissions

The organizers have issued a call for proposals, encouraging participants to submit their work in various formats, including academic papers, short workshops, practitioner-based activities, best-practice showcases, and pre-formed panels. The deadline for submissions was June 24, 2024, but the event’s broad scope suggests that there will be a rich tapestry of presentations and activities.

Diverse Topics and Formats

The conference will cover a wide range of topics, such as history, philosophy, behavior studies, and economics, among others. This diversity reflects the multifaceted nature of the furry fandom and the varied interests of its members. In addition to traditional academic presentations, the event will also feature alternative formats like photographic essays, making it an engaging and dynamic experience for all participants.

Organizing Committee Insights

Vanguard Husky, a Postgraduate Researcher at the Birmingham School of Media, Birmingham City University, and one of the key organizers, shared his enthusiasm for the project. Husky, who also runs the blog “Chasing Tails: A Furry Research Blog,” highlighted the significance of this conference in bringing together international voices that study the furry fandom. This initiative marks a significant step forward in the field of Furry Studies, which has been growing since its inception around 2007.

Celebrating Furry Culture

The Otterdam Furry Arts Festival, of which the academic conference is a part, will also include public events celebrating furry culture and art. This festival promises to be a vibrant celebration of the community’s creativity and diversity, making it an exciting time for both academics and enthusiasts.

As the furry community prepares for this landmark event, it is clear that the future of Furry Studies is bright and full of potential. Whether you are an academic researcher or a passionate member of the community, this conference offers a unique opportunity to engage, learn, and contribute to the ongoing dialogue about the furry fandom.

Stay tuned for more updates and consider sharing your thoughts and excitement about this event in the comments below

Source: Dogpatch Press: Furry Studies academic conference to launch October 18, 2024 in Rotterdam, Netherlands

The Evolution of Furry Marketplaces: A New Era of Accessibility and Community

🌐 The furry fandom has undergone a significant transformation over the past few decades, particularly in how members purchase and interact with merchandise. From the early days of mail-order purchases and convention dealer rooms to the current plethora of online marketplaces, the community has seen a remarkable shift in accessibility and diversity.

From Mail-Order to Online Marketplaces

In the late 1990s, acquiring furry merchandise was a laborious process. Fans had to rely on mail-order catalogs or visit conventions to find items such as books, comics, clothing, and fursuits. This method was not only time-consuming but also limited in scope. The advent of the internet and platforms like PayPal and Square has revolutionized the way furries shop and connect with artists and sellers.

Modern Marketplaces

Today, the furry community has a wide array of online marketplaces where members can find and purchase various items. These platforms cater to different needs, from custom art commissions to merchandise and collectibles, offering both buyers and sellers an easy way to connect. Here are some notable platforms:

• Weasyl Marketplace: This is a searchable and filterable list of Weasyl users who have marked themselves as open for commissions. It provides a convenient way for buyers to find artists and for artists to showcase their work, with an easy-to-use interface that includes portfolios and pricing information. Artists can post their terms of service, and buyers can leave reviews, adding an extra layer of trust.
• Artconomy: A newer player in the furry marketplace, Artconomy is a commission management platform that facilitates the entire process from discovery to payment. Artists create listings for their services, and buyers can place orders, which are tracked through the platform. Artconomy handles invoicing, deadlines, and even dispute resolution, making it a trusted option for many in the furry art scene.
• Telegram Channels: Channels like The Dealer’s Den and Furry Market Place are dedicated to posting ads for buying and selling commissions. These channels are strict about maintaining relevance, ensuring that members can quickly find what they are looking for. Telegram’s chat-based format also allows for fast communication between buyers and sellers, and the popularity of Telegram in the furry community makes it a go-to platform for commerce.
• Furaffinity Art Sales and Auctions Sub-forum: This long-standing marketplace within the Furaffinity Forums allows users to offer and buy commissions and items. It remains a popular spot for community interaction and commerce, with users able to browse by categories such as digital art, traditional art, and even physical crafts. Auctions, trades, and flash sales are also common, adding an element of excitement and competition to purchases.
• Facebook Groups: Several Facebook groups serve as hubs for listing commissions. These groups require a Facebook account and membership to view postings, fostering a sense of community among participants. Groups like Furry Commissions Open and Furry Art Sales have thousands of members, and they often include regular promotions and artist spotlights. The built-in social aspect of Facebook also helps build long-term relationships between buyers and artists.
• Artists’ Personal Websites: Many furry artists have taken to creating their own websites to manage commissions and sell products directly. These sites often include detailed galleries, commission forms, pricing calculators, and store sections where they sell digital downloads, physical prints, or custom merchandise like T-shirts, pins, and stickers. Platforms like Etsy or Big Cartel are also used by some artists to create storefronts, adding to the array of options for buyers to support their favorite creators directly.
• Etsy and Redbubble: In addition to personal websites, many furry artists and makers utilize broader online platforms like Etsy and Redbubble to sell their art and products. Etsy allows creators to sell custom plushies, badges, fursuit accessories, and other handcrafted items, while Redbubble provides a way to sell print-on-demand products like apparel, stickers, and phone cases featuring original furry artwork.
• The Furry Fandom Discord Servers: Many furry fandom-themed Discord servers have dedicated sections for commissions and sales, providing yet another avenue for artists and buyers to connect. These servers often cater to specific sub-communities within the fandom, such as fursuit builders, digital artists, or furries interested in role-playing games. The servers usually have clear rules about transactions, helping maintain a safe and organized environment.

The furry community’s diverse array of online marketplaces reflects the creativity and passion within the fandom, offering platforms that cater to different tastes and needs while supporting both established and emerging artists. Whether you’re looking for custom artwork, handmade items, or even digital assets, there’s a place for every buyer and seller in this vibrant ecosystem.

The Impact of Technology

The rise of these online marketplaces has not only made it easier for furries to find and purchase merchandise but also facilitated global connections. Artists can now reach a broader audience, and buyers can access a diverse range of products without geographical constraints. This shift has also enabled more direct interactions between creators and consumers, fostering a stronger sense of community within the fandom.

Encouraging Community Engagement

As the furry community continues to grow and evolve, it is crucial to support these online marketplaces. By engaging with these platforms, members can help ensure that artists and creators continue to thrive. Whether you are an artist looking to showcase your work or a buyer seeking unique merchandise, these marketplaces offer a vibrant and inclusive space for all.

Feel free to share your favorite marketplaces and experiences in the comments below. Let’s keep the conversation going and support our community’s creative endeavors!

Source: Furry Marketplaces: Where to Shop and Browse Online