Hey everyone,
I know I've been quiet around here lately, so I figured now’s a good time to break the silence with a proper update as I hang up the red nameplate.
Where Things Stand
Over the past months, my work with Civitai has been winding down. Some of the community functions I used to handle have been reduced or fully cut following the payment processor issues, and at the same time, my external work has been ramping up significantly: professional video projects, clients including [REDACTED] and [REDACTED], and other NDA-heavy work that's been both demanding and exciting.
At this point, it makes the most sense to close out this chapter to focus on these clients/projects, while also working on bringing a lot of ideas I’ve had stuck in my head for years to reality.
It's not a full goodbye; in fact, I might even be more active around here sharing more of my work-in-progress stuff and trying out more of your models beyond just putting things in Hooters outfits! (no promises)
What Civitai Has Meant
I want to be clear: everything that led to those opportunities started here.
The experimental model making, the community streams, Project Odyssey Season 2, the collaborations + friendships - all of it built the foundation for work I never imagined I'd be doing. This community helped me grow in ways I didn't fully appreciate until I was already paws-deep on those dream projects.
Working with the Civitai team has been a great experience. From creating Civchan for April Fools to organizing/running multiple contests, creating cool cosmetics, and many other things in between, there's been some fun and creative work happening behind the scenes with a small but dedicated team making things happen. I've also started work on some partnerships that I'm hopeful to see come to fruition here - bringing some cool new opportunities for creators.
What's Next for Me
My schedule is getting busier with things ramping up, but I'm always happy to connect over DM if you want to chat about projects, workflows, or just say hi!
I've been channeling most of my personal creative energy to YouTube lately, here's a few recent projects that show what's up:
Twin Crimes, One Tune | 1950s Barbershop Style AI Music Video -
Contest entry for the Dor AwardsI Monster - Daydream in Blue | AI Fairy Tale Music Video (Seedream + Wan 2.2) -
A video idea I've had in my head for years since first hearing itI Wish This Song Was Louder - Electric Six | AI-Powered Claymation Music Video -
My first attempt at making an AI music video fully seamless, without any harsh cuts/transitions
Hopes for the Community
I won't pretend I haven't noticed the community struggling. The payment processor issues have hit things hard across the board, affecting the overall energy and momentum of the platform and the creators on it. I genuinely hope Civitai can find a solution that allows the community to thrive again because this space deserves to flourish.
This is a great creative space, and I want to thank everyone that has been part of the journey so far - it’s thanks to you I’ve been able to achieve what I have.
It’s been a privilege. Keep on creating!
- Cale / kftiger 🐯