HOME | DD
NotAMudkip โ Handling criticism
Published: 2008-12-05 22:41:58 +0000 UTC; Views: 2597; Favourites: 29; Downloads: 25
Redirect to original
Description
Why is it that there are some people out there who just can't handle having anything but praise on a picture?If they are serious about their art, if they go to an art school or if they are trying to get hired by someone what are they going to do if whoever they are showing has something negative to say about it?
Not very often in the art world (especially when you are hired to design something) will you get exactly what the client wants on the first try.
Not very often in the art world are there people that start out as a master artist.
And NEVER should you assume that your art is at it's best, because as soon as you do that you will stop trying to improve it and make it better.
Everyone has their own talents and weaknesses, and sometimes it is all about opinion. But on average you have to trust that someone else will be able to give you a jaded opinion, tell you what in your art is lacking or can be improved. What is so bad about that? Is it really "mean" to tell you that you need to practice your anatomy? Is it so horrible to offer advice in theme and mood? Is it really being an asshole to tell you what they perceive has room for improvement? Because as far as I can tell, that means that you can step back and say "okay they said my anatomy needs work, that will be what I practice on from now on". And even if you DON'T agree with what they dislike, even if you think you are doing well in that area, you don't HAVE to take their advice. They aren't standing there shoving it down your throat. You can either politely say "thank you for your opinion" or ignore it. Personally I always thank people for constructive criticism because I definitely prefer a comment of "____ seems off, you should try doing this instead next time" to "SO CUTE" or "SO GOOD <3" Don't get me wrong,w e all love praise. But what do we artistically gain from praise? Overconfidence maybe. And if you are on an art site soley for the purpose of making yourself feel better, well I just don't understand that. Learn to accept constructive criticism when you get it or at least don't react in an immature angry fashion.
I'm not saying accept negative criticism. Just as there is nothing to gain from someone saying "OH THAT IS SO CUTE! +FAV!" there is nothing to gain from a comment of "omg this sucks". Those are the kind of comments that are not appropriate, yet I don't see why CONSTRUCTIVE criticism gets the same treatment. Why are there so many people who are so up in arms against constructive criticism. I almost laugh when I see stamps and such that have people killing or hurting or denying helpful comments. It's almost comical because those are exactly the sorts of things you should be embracing with open arms. I hate to see people just stagnate in their artistic ability and never explore and grow just because they can't take a comment that is not praise.
So next time you see a picture that you think could be improved don't just say "omg so kawaii, I love this so much" include what you think they could do even better on next time.
And if you receive a comment that tells you what you could improve on don't react angrily, don't shut it out and sit in your hugbox thinking no one could say something that isn't all hearts and candy. Take it like a mature artist and use it as a stepping stool to improve your art.
Or at least don't react like an immature twat about it, for your own sake.
Thank you for reading.
Related content
Comments: 60
People are just natural sensitive that love to act tough.ย
And a lot of people question why I look down at humanity.ย
๐: 0 โฉ: 0
But most praises are just white lies.
I usually listen to criticism (Even if occasionally I complain, I still follow that suggestion), often I ask 'why' for the criticism because I want to understand better, while I really don't care for praises.
If someone praise me I say 'thank you', and i forget about that. I believe 99% of praises are lies, and even if they are true (Probably when they explain you why your piece is good just like when they expain you why your piece is bad), they aren't really useful for the artist grow (especially considering that you can also improve on things you're already good).
I avoid to criticize artists that are better than me, even if i see something weird in their art. It would be arrogant.
i criticize only artists on my level or below, as long as they are capable to take criticism.
๐: 0 โฉ: 0
hey friend havin' trouble getting a boner
go to http:/www.viagra.com for TOP QUALITY viagro
tell them fat Jeffery sent ya
๐: 0 โฉ: 0
I remember once I got a comment from someone who merely said 'the moon is being reflected on the water, therefor it would have a slight ripple effect'
and I still think about that XD
its one of the most meaningful comments I've received, just because it shows the writer took the time to actually look at the peice, and help me become better.
๐: 0 โฉ: 0
honestly, there's a difference between "work on the anatomy" and "this is horrible, go choke on a dick and die"
Some people don't know how to give constructive criticism, and some people don't know how to handle constructive criticism. Simple as that.
๐: 0 โฉ: 1
I've always wondered about that. Why can't people see the difference?
๐: 0 โฉ: 1
Well, again, some people don't know how to give proper criticism and end up insulting someone. Sometimes, the criticism is okay and proper but the person receiving said criticism can't handle or quite understand that it's just to help them improve.
๐: 0 โฉ: 0
Well while you do have alot of good points on constructive criticism, you forgot one thing. The one way you can get positive feedback for your constructive criticism, you have to deliver it in the right way. You have to think about what you're going to say in your critique and HOW you're going to say it. For example, you see some flaws in someone's artwork but the overall piece is great.
Are you going to just lay out every flaw that you find in the picture and just talk about them?
OR.....
Will you say that aside from the flaws, the overall piece was good? Don't talk about the flaws only, but also include what is good in the piece. Because when you really think about it, just like in life, there's more good things than there are flaws. We're all only human.
It's not just reception of criticism that's the problem, but also the delivery of criticism. There's a way to help the person improve their artwork without having to kick their ego in the dick (even though it's really not your intention)
๐: 0 โฉ: 0
Actually, I would love constructive criticism. Its hard to improve without it :/
๐: 0 โฉ: 0
Agreed! Much can be learned from intelligent criticism. But before that can happen, one has to believe that they can improve. It helps a lot if you can laugh at yourself.
๐: 0 โฉ: 0
I came across this today for the first time sadly. Gotta agree with this. I posted something along the lines of " I really like this, the shading and shadowing is lovely, but the only thing I've got to say is that the leaves look a little off, like they aren't quite on the table." on someones piece of art, but the he next day I got back a letter telling me:
"You're not a true artist... People that see flaws in art aren't artists... I suggest you get your ego under control. I'm assuming this isn't the first time you've tried to point out 'flaws' in another's work. That's something to be VERY ashamed of. It's a horrible thing to convince someone of.."
^ My GOD. So apparently, people who see flaws in art aren't artists, but artists that see flaws in artists... are still artists? Please explain this to me. I'll keep trying to help artists grow, but people like this are never seriously going to improve.
๐: 0 โฉ: 1
Wow someone seriously said that? The arts are so dependent on critique for improvement and growth. You're right, they are going to have a really difficult time improving if understanding their flaws is such a huge insult to them.
๐: 0 โฉ: 0
You've made a crystal-clear point there!
Developing artists need constructive criticism. We learn by listening to others.
Since it's not that great when you always have one-word praises on your work. I mean, such as...
'Cute.'
...That's it...?
๐: 0 โฉ: 1
Yes, when I do works I don't always necessarily expect to receive the criticism I enjoy receiving, and just commenting on the things you like about something is still nice. But I like it to be more than a one world compliment, it seems unnecessary XD
๐: 0 โฉ: 0
I like your Mudkip but Iยดd like some less mud and more kip.
๐: 0 โฉ: 1
I'll try more kip next time thanks :>
๐: 0 โฉ: 0
The image is really good and it ilustrated very well what you want to say.
๐: 0 โฉ: 0
Sadly most artist want to receive only good reviews.They even forbid the negative opinion, which is an arogance.I despise such a people.
๐: 0 โฉ: 0
I know that everyone hates to hear stuff like this, but I take pride in saying it; MY ART SUCKS. IT WILL ALWAYS SUCK. I don't care how good you think it is, I believe that every time I draw something, I can always do better. I have set myself to constantly improve...
That said, I love getting critique and criticism from people, as well as to how the picture or work makes them feel and what not. I've never wanted to hide my comments, mostly because I feel it's pointless, even if I do get trolled by somebody, because I know it's just words on a screen.
However, I feel like the moment I want to write a critique on something, I KNOW I will get flammed because I'll say something like "her breasts are too big" or "that looks too unbelievable" and be swamped by the artist's yes men and their inflated ego. That's why I haven't used the DA critique system and I really don't leave a lot of comments on deviations outside of stamps and those that I feel are "good enough to fav". It's also why I "fav & run" on pretty much everything.
Of course, I just wonder why people don't really seem to comment or do anything much with my artwork considering that I am open to as much comments and criticisms as you want to throw at me... =/
๐: 0 โฉ: 1
People who are against critique will never improve 
if you want honest critique on anything just ask me and I'll provide you with some
๐: 0 โฉ: 1
Well, if you ever get the chance to stop by and look around at my lousy burlesque work, you can.
Now for me, I think after just hanging around some more on DA and seeing what kind of people pass through, I feel like that I have to beg for critique. I'm not asking for an essay explaining everything about my picture, I'm just asking for people to tell me how they feel about it, what kind of ideas does it give them, what's wrong physically, or if it bothers them. I feel like I'm never going to get better if I don't figure out how to fix things.
๐: 0 โฉ: 1
You have a lot of deviations so if you do want some critique please pick one or two at a time and send them my way, it makes it easier for me and you can get feedback on exactly what you want
๐: 0 โฉ: 1
Oh okay... I think I can find something for you to bite at...
[link] Here we have the ever well-known amongst my watchers dragon character. If you notice the comments, I'm full of snark because it seems like that whenever I draw something these days, people just give me "oh it's so good" stuff.
[link] You can also critique this shark here.
I should say that a lot of my stuff is, again, burlesque and full of strip teases, but I admit it at least. I'd figure if people could see more of the actual body and not the clothing, they could spot problems of any kind. I also probably do too much fan art and anthro stuff, but I'm trying to slowly expand out to see what I can and can't draw, but I'm not getting much support from my watchers.
If you would like some more information or some other pictures, just ask me.
๐: 0 โฉ: 1
I'll put my critiques on the deviations themselves now... 
If you are ever looking for more critiques besides what I'll provide you with I recommend asking this account
๐: 0 โฉ: 1
Hmm, I might do that. 
Hopefully I didn't make your eyes bleed too much with the stuff... All I can say is that I still got a long way to go before I get anywhere.
๐: 0 โฉ: 1
Nah I think your work is okay, I finished one and am going to do the other now
๐: 0 โฉ: 1
I'll be reading them.
๐: 0 โฉ: 0
Basicly the only defense the artist got is to say the one giving his opinion in that that artist opinion is more worth then the artist that started the critique.
Worked for a spanish guy named riiq something? basicly when a guy who critiqued his hands(drawing of some hands) he critique back that hands are not done like you said, I recomend not learning from art and accept constructive criticism.
Riiq Does picture.
Person A gives criticism.
Riiq tells the criticism is wrong and tells why its correct. and why the person giving the critique should learn how that, and that they need to improve in that area. and also to not reject constructive criticism when given one( and in Riiq's opinion, his criticism is better, whenever it is true or not I dont know) and not get so angry when he rejected the constructive criticism of Person A and tell him constructive criticism how it really should be done.
Instead of being defensive and pure insulting. what riiq does is being OFFENSIVE. basicly patronising the other one.
I remember there was a comic where there was a guy that was screaming and upset and the other guy was a bad guy saying in a calm manner :I just want to kill everybody, seems like you have some problems to work out with.
in other words, psychology the calm one who attacks patronisingly or subtle seems to win.
For example, even in my spelling errors that I did I would never state I was right and thus defensive, but that the other person should learn english. of course now that you know this I wont do it towards anyone here^_^
To do constructive criticism most correctly, is to tell them to ignore the trolls and flamers who insult your art and instead say that they are the one who decide how their art should be.
-: your(you're) the big boss, what I am giving you here is not telling you how the art piece is, that is up to you who decide how you want it to be and your style and other should respect that! this here is not how to do it but merely options, and you decide whenever you want to put them inside or choose the option of not doing anything in the first place, you decide! not the trolls or people who insult you!
:You can experiment with using a lighter blue for composition, UNLESS ITS intentional, remember its you who decide, not me or the trolls!
Etc
What this does is simple Bad cop good cop. one is insulting which is existing trolls who may or may not in the future trying to insult them or has done so, and you are the friend. common psychology.
everyone gets trolled, even the highest quality person does. as thus its easy to make the artist not feel down or depressed or insulted.
An extra piece I say just in case "-:if you feel insulted, please remove this post, I would hate if anyone got offended by this, I must respect others feelings and not just my own, feel free to insult me back if you are, I accept responsibility for my actions "
๐: 0 โฉ: 0
Bullshit.
Criticism is destructive 100% of the time. All you need to do is look in the dictionary for further proof of that.
criticism (n.)
1. The act of criticizing, especially adversely.
2. A critical comment or judgment.
3.
a. The practice of analyzing, classifying, interpreting, or evaluating literary or other artistic works.
b. A critical article or essay; a critique.
c. The investigation of the origin and history of literary documents; textual criticism.
Now what is "adversely"? It's the adverb form of the word "adverse", correct? So let's look up the word "adverse" and see what comes out of it.
Adverse (adj.)
1. unfavorable or antagonistic in purpose or intent.
2. opposing one's interest or desires.
3. being or acting in a contrary direction; opposed or opposing.
4. opposite, confronting.
Do I need to go any further? When you criticize someone, you are acting adverse and opposing their interests and desires and acting unfavorably or antagonistic in the process. 100% of the time. No exceptions.
Criticism is, by it's very nature, malevolent and done with the intent of demoralizing the person to the point of worthlessness. You see it in life, at the military and on shows like Two and a Half Men. So handling it is difficult for a lot of people.
Have a nice day.
๐: 0 โฉ: 1
Criticism has multiple definitions and one of which was quite clearly "The practice of analyzing, classifying, interpreting, or evaluating literary or other artistic works."
When done in the spirit of mutual artistic cooperation someone else pointing out what may be flawed or things that could be improved on from a different point of view can give you amazingly valuable insight into what you can do to improve yourself as an artist. I don't know whose commentary made you/someone you know so destroyed that you can call it "malevolent and done with the intent of demoralizing the person to the point of worthlessness", but I can only imagine you/they/whoever isn't a mature enough artist to not so inanely attach themselves to their work that the thought of it not being PERFECT is crippling. Critics and criticism are a vital part of becoming a real/professional/serious artist. I've heard enough criticism of things I've done and not been heartbrokena nd devastated to know it can only give you a point to improve yourself.
And yes, nice day indeed.
๐: 0 โฉ: 1
Maybe as an "artist", but I'm not an artist. I actually have a severely impaired motor skill that makes even rudimentary drawing of things impossible for me, let alone advanced drawing techniques.
I just wanted to tell you exactly my take on what criticism is, and to me, it applies universally, not just to artwork in general.
Criticism by it's very nature is adverse, hostile, and combative. And yes, I have been criticized to the point of worthlessness. Not in the artistic sense, but in dating, work and school.
What I'm basically saying is that everyone has a threshold for criticism and when that threshold is exceeded, the person is going to feel either defensive or worthless. I have been pushed to that point a few hundred times, personally. Hence, the world would be a better place without so much of it.
๐: 0 โฉ: 1
Well this entire picture is about constructive artistic criticism, so... sorry for your horrible multitudes or real life criticism but I don't really see it applicable to what I was talking about?
๐: 0 โฉ: 1
Oh, I was looking for a stamp that said "Constructive Criticism is an oxymoron" and found this picture so I felt the need to comment on it. Sorry.
๐: 0 โฉ: 1
While I believe good criticisms, when taken properly are indeed constructive I understand that some criticism is not. However I wouldn't put the word "constructive" in front of it if it truly was just criticizing something without justification or intent to help improve something. No need to apologize.
๐: 0 โฉ: 0
I'm going to say that I couldn't agree any further to the point where I can't add anything important to say it to you simply because you said it all. Fave.
๐: 0 โฉ: 0
come to think of it, I think my "style" is mediocre at best.
๐: 0 โฉ: 0
Me, I'd be happy if I got some criticism at all. I mean, if it's kindly written, of course.
Getting "OMG NICE" comments can be boring after a while.
๐: 0 โฉ: 0
Well said indeed 
๐: 0 โฉ: 1
Yes, I also dislike that DA now gives people the idea that you have to have a paid account and officially request critics... it is something everyone should desire/expect and be able to get on an art site without having to dole out extra bucks...
๐: 0 โฉ: 1
Yeah!It should be free.It's free for beta testers right?
๐: 0 โฉ: 1
I wouldn't know, but I have 100% FREE SUPER FRESH AND EXCITING CRITIQUES.
๐: 0 โฉ: 1
I'm gonna try to do some landscape stuff a little later on,I might like some critique actually.I've kinda forgotten stuff :/
๐: 0 โฉ: 0
MY NAME IS MARY SUE AND MY ART IS SUPERIOR TO ALL OF YOURS!
๐: 0 โฉ: 0
i agree! just earlier i commented on someone's paper. I didn't flame or anything. I wasn't like "OH MAI GOD THIS SUCKS!!!!!" like i see a lot of people do, and i pointed out good and bad stuff but this person turns around and is accusing me of bashing and is all huffy and says how awesome they are and crap. I said sorry but jeez O.O Maybe I typed something wrong I dunno but i wish people would grow up about other peoples opinions, it's life as you pointed out.... people get fat heads a lot on the internet i think
๐: 0 โฉ: 1
Just be confident in the fact that while they can hide anything that isn't blind praise and be all happy about how many (for the majority completely unqualified) people on the internet told them how awesome they are, their "art" will stagnate and they will never make anything worthwhile of themselves.
๐: 0 โฉ: 1
| Next =>