There are 8 levels and each level represents a color of the spectrum. Red members are new and Violet are masters. There is no subjectivity; everyone really can move up to the next level!

The breakdown of points to get to each level
Red - 5
Orange - 25
Yellow -75
Green - 150
Blue - 300
Indigo - 500
Violet - 800
Elite - 1000
Admins are cyan, but still earn points like everyone else.

How Do I Earn Points?
Everyone can earn points, regardless of talent or level.
10 points for a tutorial explaining both how and why to do something
10 points for winning a site contest
5 points for a tutorial that explains how to do something
5 points for translating a tutorial to another graphics program (with permission)
5 points for filling a request
5 points for winning a large member battle
3 points for winning a small member battle
1 point for an in-depth critique
1 point for helping someone in the help forum
1 point for submitting a graphic to a contest

Upper Level Benefits
Blue levels and up may host a shop where members can request graphics
Elite members will have access to a private forum and discussion
Elite members will earn a graphic next to their names in the online list

More to come!