WalkerofShadows: ... given a choice, automatically people will choose "pro" work over percieved lower quality...

That's very true, and something I was wondering about, myself. Having one's status as newbie or pro hidden to the public is a good idea. This way, not only do content providers get a fair chance of obtaining downloads for their posts, but downloaders won't miss out on really great downloads simply because someone is in the newbie section. Simply because someone is new to the craft doesn't necessarily mean that they lack talent in it, and they can have some really great downloads to share!

Also, if, perhaps, hiding such status is more work than is desired, and/or if admin would rather not insult those sensitive to certain labels, how about using the terms: non-profit and profit? This is a more true and accurate label, as I'm sure there are those who are professionals who simply choose not to profit off of content they provide for free. With this labelling system, even if one's tier isn't  hidden from the public, downloaders shouldn't be too heavily influenced as to which downloads to choose from. For example, I wouldn't care if someone was receiving a share of profits or not if I have a use for the freebie. But if the freebie is by someone who is labelled a "newbie," I may think the work is of a lower quality than the description or promotional picture would lead me to believe, and decide against downloading.