What’s an art critic’s role?

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An art critic evaluates works of art, galleries, and artists, often commenting on technical factors and comparing art to similar works. They need experience or education in the type of art they are reviewing and the ability to articulate their opinions. An acclaimed art critic can influence an artist’s future. A degree in art, art history, or art appreciation is advantageous.

An art critic gives his opinion and technical analysis of works of art, galleries and artists. Artwork can include drawings, paintings and photographs. Other artistic media such as collages, prints, graphics or sculptures may also be evaluated. Typically, the art being reviewed is displayed in a gallery, exhibition, public show, or private exhibition. The locations, as well as the artists, can be examined along with the art.

An art critic typically needs experience or education in the type of art they are reviewing in order to provide a valid and informed opinion in their reviews. This background also adds credibility to his criticisms. The ability to clearly express your opinions and cite credible sources for your comments is typically required for success in this position.

Regardless of the genre of art being reviewed, the art critic will often comment on technical factors. These include artistic technique, theme and expression. She often compares art to similar works or refers to commonly accepted artistic standards.

Having the talent to articulately convey to readers how a work of art created a mood or feeling is a valuable resource for an art critic. It is also helpful for critics to include ancillary information in their reviews that add depth and an additional level of interest. This information usually refers to the background or training of the artist. Anecdotal references to the artist’s ties to the local community or sources of inspiration are also likely to be of interest to a wide range of readers.

If an art critic gathers a following based on his opinions, he can gain influence that affects an artist’s future. Public opinion of highly subjective creative endeavors is known to make or break a budding artist’s career. An acclaimed art critic is often able to exert her influence to achieve this, whether intentionally or not.

An art critic may work for a single magazine, newspaper or website or choose to offer their opinions on a contractual and freelance basis. The last option is often the choice of aspiring art critics. Sometimes it is necessary to provide reviews to multiple sources for free if the art critic is new to the industry or does not have impressive credentials related to art criticism.

A significant number of successful art critics have degrees in art, art history, or art appreciation. That background, along with the ability to comment intelligently and clearly on different art forms, may be enough to make you successful in this position. As with many media positions, having an industry contact or mentor is usually advantageous.




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