what is meant by the word “critique”?
For many, the term critique implies negativity. One individual does not like, understand or appreciate another individual’s representation of an idea. However, in the visual arts, when we look at work and attempt to discuss it, we need to express more information than “I like” or “I don’t like.”
For our purposes, criticism should be thought of as informed discourse which increases our understanding and appreciation of design. “Informed” is the qualifier which distinguishes criticism from mere talk and uninformed opinion. In order to become informed about design we must see, think and talk about it.
Constructive criticism is the process by which you will learn about your design process and theory and how you may improve your work. The critique process helps design solutions mature and improve.
presenting your work for critique
Consider these guidelines and questions when presenting your work:
Present your concepts. How have you chosen to solve the problem? What is the underlying logic, thinking or reasoning for how you designed the piece?
Discuss your forms. How do your forms support your concepts? How do the elements illustrate your ideas?
Explain your process. What was your process? Describe how you arrived at your ideas and forms.
critiquing your own work or the work of others
Consider these guidelines and questions when critiquing:
Describe. Describe what you see. Look, notice and tell things about the work. This is the data-gathering portion of the exercise. It insures that you have taken in and understand all of the available visual information before you begin to analyze. Answer the question “What am I looking at?”
Interpret. Each work demands some sort of interpretation in order to be fully understood and appreciated. Work needs to be recognized as about something and for some communication/expressive purpose. Interpretation occurs whenever attention and discussion move beyond offering descriptive information to matters of meaning. Answer the question “What is the design attempting to communicate? What is the concept?”
Evaluate. How do the forms meet the criteria as outlined in the problem? Give specific examples of how it does or doesn’t meet the specified criteria.
Remember, your goal for critique is to be concise and direct.
