So I felt this was necessary after the last couple of days i've had; A few reasons why we, as artists and critics, should speak up and speak our minds in class/group critiques: (they are in no particular order)
Un.) Giving honest opinions is always better than just saying "I like it;" It gives the artist something to run with. Something to use.
Deux.) More talking = less boredom. It allows each other to engage in idea brainstorming and further allowing improvement.
Trois.) It keeps the teacher/critique leader from constantly asking for opinons and verbal engagement repeatedly.
Quatre.) It allows for a healthy dose of debate; whether between the artist and a viewer, or between two viewers with differing views. (Personally, I find debate enjoyable)
Cinq.) Say something. Point blank. Talking about the artists work can make the artist feel like all of their work wasn't for nothing. (I find this to be one of the better reasons to speak up; theres nothing i hate more than staying up super hella late, just for people to be all silent and shit.)
Six.) No feedback is worse than negative feedback. Saying you don't like something, or were expecting something different, is far better than biting your tongue.
Sept.) For the sake of debating, please be honest about what you see. We don't have to absolutely love everything we see, but for the sake of criticism, if you hate it say it. (maybe in a more constructive way, with some adjectives, a few verbs, and maybe even some conjunctions.)
When we open our mouths, we perpetuate a moment of criticism and influence. Without this we can be left questioning and confused, lost and overwhelmed. We don't have to absolutely love everything we see, and we don't have to enjoy it either. As individuals we are entitled to our own opinions, whether people like them or not.
