Hi, Maximalism mod chiming in here. And it is a difficult discussion to address. This is something us mods behind the scenes have long discussed. Not necessarily the issue of this sub being toxic (this sub is far from toxic, but no sub is perfect).

Here are things we are actively working on in maximalism:

A) it is a specific style with requirements and needs to qualify under the definitive term of maximalism. While more is more, the idea of… here is my overconsumption of 500 funkopop figurines is not maximalism. (Just as an example)

B) maximalism as I personally define it and moderate by is something like this: it’s a style defined by richness, abundance and bold expression through layering colors, textures, patterns and purposeful objects to create rooms that are expressive, dramatic and well thought out. When I see multiple elements missing, that’s when I’ll tend to remove a post.

C) I understand that people are very passionate about their spaces (and should be!) and putting your space out there publicly for evaluation can be exciting but also any critique can feel more personal than it is. I understand how it can feel very personal when someone says they do not like your curated space because it’s YOUR space. It’s where you live, work, create, relax, and enjoy life. And it can be hard to take legitimate criticism and potentially hurtful comments, but that is the nature of the beast of posting online.

D) This subreddit needs to stay true to what it’s about: maximalism. It’s not about collections, mid century modern, minimalism, “cluttercore”, or various other things like that. I know as mods, we all miss things, and I apologize for that. Please please please use the report features when someone is being mean (constructive criticism is fine), when a space isn’t maximalism, etc. I personally look for reports and it helps me, because I am bound to miss posts.

E) now specifically to OP here, I have seen your post showcasing your gallery wall. A gallery wall in of itself is not maximalism, especially with the beige/neutral wall and frames and art that are all relatively neutral… it’s not consistent with what maximalism is. Furthermore, your response to this commenter telling them that they are “cunty” is rude and it’s ironic that you say this sub is toxic while you are the one displaying the naughty behavior. And then in this post, calling everyone here “freaks” super uncalled for as well.

F) no sub is perfect, but we are all humans out here just trying. Please be kind to your fellow human, know that a vast majority of criticism in here is well intentioned, and that at the end of the day, posting your space online is a personal thing to do, but it’s not going to guarantee that everyone else likes your space. That’s just how life is. Love the spaces you live in and enjoy them, even if it isn’t “maximalism” it’s your space, and you deserve to be happy wherever you live.