Diego Sandoval 23 Nov 2011

James I agree 100% with you.

Ann 28 Nov 2011

I agree with you 100% also James, other than to add that deliberately saying cruel things should never be included in a critique.

Once upon a time, I was part of an artist group that had a critic that was often very cruel. I respected this critic because this person was VERY knowleged in all aspects of art. After too many harsh critiques on my work, I was at the point of being almost afraid to present it to the group, anticipating this critic's harsh words. One particual critique on another artist's piece was so harsh that it caused everyone to quit the group. We have since then rejoined, minus this critic of course!!! and we are all enjoying the benefits of helping each other in a much more peaceful, appreciative way.

There are kind ways to word things and make suggestions, without being blunt and cruel. A critique should never discourage or insult an artist. I just hope I never make anyone feel that way when I give a critique. It would never be intentional. Ann

Gail Caduff-Nash 01 Dec 2011

i've noticed from watching people here do critiques that it's mostly a support group here, with some who want to flaunt their education in art, and others who are very vague about their critiques ('awesome", "amazing"). i think we all have the right to critique but not always the skill to do it well, so get a bit thicker skin when you ask for an opinion. or a coat of downy feathers, is more accurate, as you're going to want to let it run down off your back. OBSERVE the reactions to your work and take whatever might be useful and leave the rest on the floor. the reactions will be similar to what you get at an exhibit. i really hate getting "awesome" because it doesn't say much except that maybe it didn't suck.

Shellton Tremble 05 Dec 2011

Depends on 'who you know', 'who you are' and if your 'name' is known. I've seen some 'kitsch' that judges claim as 'brilliant'. Then I've seen the public celebrate a great work, but some critic state it is not good. Then you have the curators, art directors, and galleries who cater to a certain market of clientale. So, it is all relative and subjective! If a certain audience likes your work, then you will sell. If someone loves you personality or who you are, then they don't care..they will buy. This has too many variables!

LEON MADDOX 25 Dec 2012

I PARTICIPATED IN AN ART SHOW LAST YEAR IN MY HOME TOWN, GUESS WHAT, ALL THE AWARDS WENT TO THE TEACHERS IN THE LOCAL ART ASSOCIATION. THINK AT LEAST ONE "OUTSIDER" COULD HAVE GOTTEN AN HONORABLE MENTION. IF I HAD KNOWN THAT ONLY THE TEACHERS WOULD HAVE BEEN GOOD ENOUGH TO GET AN AWARD I WOULDN'T HAVE WASTED MY TIME AND MONEY ENTERING. NO ONE KNEW THAT I WAS EVEN IN THE CONTEST.

Gail Caduff-Nash 26 Dec 2012

And the award goes to . . . a discussion on critiqueing! Hey, all you 'viewers' - how about some of your thoughts here? Cat got your tongue? This place is quiet as a tomb.

ron miller 26 Dec 2012

im a good critique..

Gwenlyn Norton 16 Dec 2013

Critiques and opinions of judges, or anyone for that matter, are just that. Nothing more than a subjective viewpoints. I will continue to create art because I am simply motivated to express myself visually. Take it or leave it.

Gwenlyn Norton 16 Dec 2013

I didn't really answer the question.

A good critique is one I agree with!

rosemary gioielli 16 Dec 2013

Well said Minnie, I agree. A critique is a tool an artist can use for growth. It is like looking at your work with fresh eyes. There is a difference between a brutal bashing and an honest critique. It doesn't have to come from a professional artist. I'm in school now , and have to sit through critiques constantly. It hurts my ego sometimes, but you have to move passed that to grow. I'm not being bashed, just being given some useful information. I can chose to take it or not, to agree or not. Sadly we had a professor tell us that he would only talk about the good in our work, because he'd seen too many students cry when critiqued. So we were denied this critical sharing of thoughts. If you want nice and sweet, ask your friends and family. Your grandma will always stroke your ego and tell you how wonderful your work is. Does that help you as an artist to grow? If an artist gets defensive with a critique, it's no wonder no one wants to tell you anything negative, it's your loss after all. Again , there is a difference between a bashing and a critique. I'm surprised that some artists love to critique others, but can't stand to be critiqued. It's just weird.

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