Overview A critique (Crit) is a discussion (oral or written) about a work of art that focuses on the successes and weaknesses of the work. The Crit is an invaluable tool for artist that helps them grow and improve. It allows the artists to know how other's perceive their work while getting feedback with ways to improve and recognition for successes,
Because artwork can be personal in nature, it is often hard to hear any negative comments about our work. It is important to remember that commits made about the work should not be taken as comments about us, as a person. The viewer should also use care as they give feedback to others.
Keep an open mind and really listen without getting defensive
Do not take what the critic is saying as a personal attack, but as a suggestion for improvement
Restate unclear comments; sometimes you might think they mean one thing but they really mean something else
Giving
Critique the work, not the artist
Be objective, especially if the work is not in a style or genre that you prefer
Don’t be vague; give specific suggestions for improvement
Be polite; avoid harmful or rude language
Critiques are meant to provide feedback that is helpful to the artist. This requires the viewer to have a working knowledge about the mechanics of what makes an artwork successful. Familiarity with the Elements and Principles of Art is a great starting place. Other considerations may be things like the mood, message or style of the piece, It is not helpful to simply state that you "like" or "don't like" the artwork. That doesn't tell the artist anything constructive or provide ways they can improve.
Describe specific elements of the work without using words such as "beautiful" or "ugly"
Describe technical qualities of the work
Describe the subject matter. Are there recognizable images or icons?
Is the construction or planning of the work evident?
Identify some of the points of emphasis in the work
If the work has multiple subjects or characters, what are the relationships between or among them?
Describe expressive qualities in the work
Does the work remind you of other things you have experienced? (i.e., analogy or metaphor)
Does the work relate to historical or contemporary work in the medium?
“Rules” for Good Critiques http://blogs.ubc.ca/blakesmi/files/2014/07/Tips-for-Facilitating-High-School-Visual-Art-Critiques.pdf 1. Constructive Criticism – Suggestions and comments should be focused on improving work or praising successes 2. Honesty - not arrogance or humiliation of others. No rude remarks, laughing at someone presenting or their work, or negative statements 3. Participation – raising hands, making original & thoughtful comments, taking notes, talking about your own work. No blurting or excessive commentary. No talking while others are talking. 4. Vocabulary, Word Choice, Assessment Criteria - Avoid these terms: cool, good, interesting, creative, unique, ugly, stupid, lame, etc. Instead use new art vocabulary, descriptive adjectives, and specific feedback related to specific criteria being assessed/taught/learned. 5. Humility - Be willing to hear what needs to be improved. No pouting, blurting, getting mad. Artists can be given a chance to explain/defend work 6. 3 Guidelines for Speaking: Words should be kind, honest, and necessary.
Article "The Value of a Good Critique" - clicking on the link below