Self Critique

A self critique list was passed around the other day.  It seemed to be aimed at traditional representational painting such as light and shadow.  Here it is with a little editing.

Concept / Idea

• ·      Why are you painting this scene/arrangement?
• ·      What do you want to say?
• ·      What are you trying to do?
• ·      Is there a good underlying abstract idea?
• ·      What can be eliminated to strengthen the composition? 

Shapes / Drawing

• ·      Are the shapes distinct and unique?  Varied?
• ·      Are shapes grouped in an interesting fashion?
• ·      Is there a clear focal point or a series of focal points?
• ·      Does the paintng “read”?
• ·      Is the perspective correct without being boring?
• ·      Is there a sense of depth?
• ·      Is there a flow of lights or darks?
• ·      Too many shapes?  Can the number be reduced?

Value

• ·      Are the values correct?
• ·      Is the value range appropriate re the concept?
• ·      Could the value range be increased?
• ·      Could the number of values be decreased?
• ·      Is the dark light pattern interesting?
• ·      Is the light gradated?
• ·      Do the darks describe the form?

 Colour

• ·      Is there a colour strategy in line with the concept?
• ·      Is cool or warm colour dominant?
• ·      Are the darks the right temperature?
• ·      Do the lights have enough colour in them?
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• Paint

• ·      Are the strokes in accordance with your concept?  Unique vs blended.
• ·      Variation of application techniques?
• ·      Texture variation?

Edges

• ·      Are the edges appropriate?  Soft vs hard
• ·      Is there variation in edge creation

     Of course there are other forms of painting such as local tone.  And there are non traditional ways to suggest depth and eliminate traditional perspective.  Figure painting and portraiture  and these other approaches might suggest unique approaches to self critique.