PHOTO: DEZI THOMPSON

Offering Critique on a Work of Art (Critique Sandwich)

As a graphic design student in 2002, Jessie Nilo gave what she thought was a helpful critique to a university
classmate by pointing out everything she noticed about the piece. Later she realized with horror that shed offered
entirely too many observations while not connecting with the artist. Jessie has since developed the following technique for engaging artists, writers, musicians, poets, designers, and others via discussing the work they create.
Before Offering Any Critique

Make sure the artist has specifically asked for your feedback. If not, you must entirely SKIP step 2.

Be emotionally aware. See Lesson 8, Art and Healing. There are times to remain silent and let the art do all of
the talking. If emotionally appropriate, offer step 1 (admire whats working) and step 3 (encourage the artist).

Remember, constructive criticism is the opposite of destructive. We are building up, not tearing down!

Three Steps of a Critique (Sandwich)

Pray first. Ask the Lord for specific words that will honor, empower, and encourage this person.
1. Honor. What is working about this particular piece of artwork? You can use phrases such as I enjoy, I
like, terrific, and awesome, but being specific helps the artist more when observing/admiring their art:

Elements of visual art: Line, Value, Color, Texture, Shape, Space.

Descriptive words: soft/hard edges, blending, negative/positive space, bold, subtle, intense, subdued.
Principles of design: Emphasis, Balance, Contrast, Depth, Repetition/Variation, Unity/Harmony, Movement.
Possibly mention a brief reference to art history or theological context their work reminds you of that is positive
and encouraging, to connect the artist with something larger and perhaps spur them toward further exploration.

2. Empower (suggest). Feel free to skip this step. Not all art needs suggestions, even if asked. Proceed with caution! If asked, make only one or two suggestions at most. Only comment on what the artist could do to make the
most helpful difference to the piece, while making sure the artist is capable of understanding and implementing
the suggestion. Do not insist. Its not your artwork, and you may be exactly wrong about what the piece needs.
3. Encourage. To wrap up, encourage the artist in a real and specific way to where the person is in their life. This
could be encouraging them artistically, spiritually, relationally, practically, vocationally, or a combination.
Again Pray and listen to the Lord first. Jesus knows exactly what His child needs to hear on this day.