Hi! Welcome to deviantart!
It's a great place to show off your work, but be careful about getting too involved with relationships online.(i noticed your forum thread, thought I'd drop by)
If you want to meet other artists, there are certainly forums. Also check out some clubs. Not sure exactly what type of art you're into but there are TONS of clubs for anyone on here.
One of my faves is
because I'm a writer. But I also do some photography, drawing and painting.
I hope you enjoy being a part of the community here!