Constructive Criticism, Giving and Receiving
Critiquing another person’s work is tricky because of the personal pride held by the sharer and the hearer. Some encourage gentleness. Others recommend a quick comment like my Mom ripped off a band-aid.
What is the best way to give constructive criticism or critique another scribe’s work?
While my daughter would disagree…I often give feedback in a critique sandwich. It includes improvement suggestions within a bun of sincere positive comments. Something like:
Lady Ismeralda, your scroll is beautiful. It looks like a lost page from the Luttrell Psalter. Even your colors are exact. Your black lettering will improve with more repetition. I love the unique grotesques you made from the recipient’s cats. What do you think?
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| Some critiques go better in private. |
I see this as encouraging Ismeralda’s scribal work. It is not degrading. It gives her a specific practice without deploring her background or learning abilities, whatever her age. I see it as constructive.
While conversations trade comments, critiques go better when requested. How do you ask when you want help?
I prefer to ask several people their opinion, as each sees my work differently. And they may accomplish the same technique in different ways.
I enter competitions to receive other’s comments. Asking several people’s opinions gives me options to try. It’s even better when the “critics” are all together along with me and my work.
Posting a photo and asking an on-line group such as the SCA Scribes may work. However the art’s image makes giving an opinion difficult or inaccurate. Also, you best information source may not want to comment on a permanent format other’s read.
A critique is meant to help. Let negative comments roll off. They will evaporate like morning dew.
A critique is only as beneficial as you make it. It takes trying the suggestions given. Progress takes your effort.
| Related Prior Post: Is It Unsolicited Advice or Teaching |
Categories: Musings
An Itinerant Scribe 