Instead of a featured wood for this issue, I though we should include an excellent article that Barb Cramer has written:

GIVING AND RECEIVING CRITIQUES

An advanced degree in art, formal training or being a recognized, established, famous artist is not required to see & know what you like or dislike about a piece of art. Every time we look at a piece of art we either consciously or subconsciously critique.

Everyone has an opinion, and are equally qualified and free to critique. We 'oooh' and 'wow', yuck and 'ugh'...not very constructive or helpful to the artist. What does anyone learn from those expressions? Only that the work is liked or disliked, but not specifically why!

Tell the artist asking for feedback what you particularly like or find bothersome when viewing the piece and say why. For instance; What is it about the picture that you think is not working? What do you think could be changed? Does the piece seem technically accurate to you, or do the perspective and proportions seem off somehow? How would you go about changing it? Do you find the composition pleasing or not? why? What would you have done differently? Perhaps you have more experience or skill showing depth, texture, figures etc., one or two constructive suggestions from you on that will be helpful to the artist as well as appreciated.

When we ask for a critique of our work we sometimes may not like what is said. Recognizing and accepting this possibility is a must if we are to continue to improve, grow and learn. Remember; a critique is merely an opinion - we have the option of accepting that opinion or not.

When offering a critique we risk the possibility of hurt feelings. This risk can be greatly minimized if we remain objective and non-personal. Remember; we are speaking of one specific piece of work; NOT a personal opinion of or about the artist!

Everyone looks at a painting, a drawing, sketch, etc. with a different eye. Each of us thinks and sees what we would do, or how we would handle a particular subject differently. Knowing what the artist was striving for that makes it easier to focus and give an objective and specific critique. For instance; did the artist say their aim was for a certain mood or emotion? Trying a new technique or material? Focus on what the artist is asking about and address those issues.

Specific, constructive feedback helps the artist as well as the individual doing the critique. It causes us to stop, look, think, and study our own work and ultimately become better at what we do.

ABOVE ALL ELSE when expressing your opinion; Be kind, be supportive, be objective, be honest. Think about how your critique would make you feel if it was about your work. Phrase and choose words carefully.