Critiques are an essential part of Graphic Design. The Critique session allows students to view other student work and offer feedback based on the assignment criteria as well as the personal bias of the observer. Though, a critique session should never truly be about the “I love it” or “I hate it” sentiment, human emotion does come into play. Being professional and objective about the critique is typically what helps to level-off hard feelings. However, sometimes, this is quite difficult. It is difficult because Artists and Designers put their heart and soul into their work and rejection is a tough thing. Nitpicking objection is even worse. Though, in the field of Art and Design, the nitpicking can be a complementary thing. It means that most of the broad strokes are covered and done well while only fine tuning issues remain.
Things to remember during a critique:
- It is recommended to provide a positive and negative statement about the work. What was done right? What was done wrong? Tell them what you would do to improve it. I will not accept “I like it/I don’t like it” and that’s it. Offer specifics about what you do or do not like.
- Keep to the point. Saying that you do not like the Magazine Cover a student designed because you do not like the fact they designed it around “Skateboarding,” when you clearly do not like Skateboarding is irrelevant.
- Our critiques are to help students get better at their craft – not to emotionally cripple them. Not to wound them on a personal level.
- Listen to what others are saying and then apply that to your own work. Do not be one that offers criticism but then fails to self-apply their own critique. Learn how you can improve from the mistakes and accomplishments others make.
