Seeking feedback on your work, whether it’s a new dish, a redesigned room, or another piece of artwork can be invaluable. However, before you ask, it’s crucial to reflect on your intentions.
We all crave input on our creations, but asking for opinions too early or without clarity can be an emotional or psychological trap. Taking time to understand why you’re asking will help you frame the question and choose the right person to approach.
Here are some guiding questions to consider:
- Are you seeking validation?
- Do you feel confident about your work?
- Are you unsure about an aspect of the piece and need a fresh perspective?
- Do you doubt your skills or vision?
- Do you trust the opinion of others more than yourself?
When seeking input, be clear and direct about what you need, vague or general questions often lead to unhelpful feedback. Many people don’t truly listen, they may answer what they think you’re asking or simply share their own perspective, which might not align with your goals. Be specific in your ask. If you’re unclear about your intentions or not secure in your vision, someone’s critique could set you back, stir self-doubt, or amplify your inner critic.
I think it is best to avoid
- Friends or family whose approval you seek.
- People who are overly critical, jealous, or always overly positive.
- Artists with vastly different styles, who may struggle to appreciate your vision.
Maybe seek
- Someone passionate about the specific aspect you need feedback on like the style, color, composition, etcetera.
- A curator, gallery owner, or teacher well versed in many forms and styles of art that can be objective.
- A mentor who supports your growth.
- Creative individuals in adjacent fields who understand your approach to art.
Feedback can be a double-edged sword, so If no one comes to mind, take a step back from it for a while. Often, with time, the answers will reveal themselves.
- Take a walk, exercise, meditate, take a drive, dance and sing, do something different for an hour then check back. Sometimes this is enough time to find the answer you seek.
- Place it in a visible spot and observe it over time, flip it or turn it every couple of days.
- Tuck it away for a couple of weeks and revisit it with fresh eyes.
- Take a photo of it and play with its size and color.
Your own perspective can provide the clarity you need if you give it the time it needs. Not everything can be achieved in the time we want, but if we are patient the time will arrive. Don’t get stuck in that moment, move on to the next thing and revisit this one when the time is right.