Re: Taboo Subject - Bad Art

Posted by ReddEra on 2010/4/1 18:08:32

ok, so I haven't read everyone's opinion completely on this page.
So I apologies if I repeat anybody but here's what I think:

First of all Jr's right about really bad art that you just wouldn't know where to start critiquing. But I think that depends on a persons current level of abilities, for me If I find that I am at a completely different level than I may refer someone closer to that persons level because they can help each other better and understand more.

Here's some advise that I want to pass on from other artists I know who have been in the field a LOT longer than I there are usually two types of artists, some exceptions...

1.) Artists with big egos that aren't really that good
2.) Artists with little egos that are very good

most of the time the first type won't take critiques even though to their surprise they really need it. The reason the second type is so good is because they take critiques to become something they consider a good artist.
For example Frank Frezzeta said about his art "I'm not aloud in my own museum because there is always something to fix" I tend to follow that line of thought in the second category. But since it is difficult to tell who is what until after the fact here is my second set of very important and USEFUL advise:

SANDWICH YOUR CRITIQUES! :D
compliment
constructive critique
compliment

Here is how I tend to do it:
"Wow! I really love the detail you did on the face and hair, it is wondrously captivating, most of all the sparkle of life in the eyes. Although the shoulder is too far back and too small, it takes away from the great time and effort you spent on that fantastic face. If you move the shoulder forward and flesh it out the whole piece itself will really pop and match your amazing work. I can't wait to see this grow."

Even if it's only slightly captivating, the wondrous makes them feel good so they know thy are on the correct path. Sometimes I will over-exaggerate so that the critique itself is valued and doesn't seem like that much of a fix, even if I write a very long critique. With that I have never had a negative response, even if they just say they will think about that next time but won't be fixing the particular piece I critiqued.

As for 'bad art' that is difficult. Really because everyone has their own levels and no matter how bad someone is they can get better if they want to. but when there are particular generating programs where the post does not really even have an attempt at being individual or creative and there are many of them. As an artist and for others who are trying or at least make what they do with those programs individual to them, I feel insulted.
Those programs are for people who want and are artistic but have an almost impossible time with producing their own art. It gives them a medium to be creative.
but it is NOT SOMETHING TO SPAM WITH. I am not a big fan of programs like Poser but I do appreciate what it does for some and even the reference capabilities it has and sometimes I see some really amazing work done with it.
yet there are some galleries here that I don't even check anymore, becuase very rarely is there anything different, talent or time oriented.

At the same time I appreciate all the critiques I get not matter the current ability level of the criticizer. I forget who said this in the forum but they are right that "good" great" and "this sucks" don't help anybody. I'm not saying take time to write an essay for every critique but at least say something valuable. and if you can't find something to critique say what parts you like and why. that will let the artist know at least what to continue doing.

And sometimes I do want to write an essay, that's why I have all of Bio, and Mr.A's pieces from this past year stacked up in my deviations at DA. Cause I want to be long and involved and spend the time they deserved.

I know I have more to say on this topic but I really can't think of it at the moment.

~ Kisses
Redd